Plant Science Research Assistant - Temporary

FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, invites applications for the position of Plant Science Research Assistant - Temporary.

Fort Valley State University, the only 1890 land-grant university in Georgia, is a comprehensive institution that provides an education to over 2,800 students including graduate students. The university is located in the town of Fort Valley in Peach County, the original site of the state's peach industry. Its 1,365-acre (5.52 km2) campus is Georgia's second-largest public university in area.

Fort Valley State University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or marital or veteran status.

JOB SUMMARY:

This position is a temporary, short-term position to assist Plant Science Researchers with research projects in the laboratory, forage/plant site/plot development and maintenance in greenhouses or in the field, and sampling and management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist research staff research involving grains and forage crop in the greenhouse and field including planting seeds, pulling weeds, mowing and sampling plants.
• Assist Researcher with management and handling/sampling (with training as needed) of research data in the field plot techniques.
• Assist Researcher and staff with laboratory analyses for forage research (including nutritional analysis), train students in procedures.
• Collect and input data, assist with writing results/reports and scientific publications.
• Make photocopies and assist with development, organization and conducting research presentations and publications.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma.
• At least two semesters' college in Plant, Animal, Equine or Veterinary Science, Agriculture, Agricultural Education or other related fields.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively use Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) or similar software.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with livestock handling/management.
• Experience with laboratory work such as washing glassware, cleaning, organizing supplies.
• Experience with greenhouse and/or field work with plants/forages.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

This position is with living organisms (plants and animals), so weekend work may be requested. The applicant must be able to work in inclement weather outside as well as conduct work while sitting in a climate-controlled office using a computer or laboratory using equipment.

PHYSCIAL REQUIREMENTS:

The applicant must be able to bend, safely work with goats with assistance and training provided as needed and stand and walk for extended periods of time. A valid GA drivers' license and independent reliable transportation is required.

DIRECT REPORTS:

The above list of job duties is not exclusive or exhaustive and the incumbent will be required to undertake such tasks as may reasonably be expected within the scope of the position.

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.