What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nursery Research Technician position at Virginia Tech?
Job Description
The Criscione Lab is seeking an ambitious applicant who is eager to learn and is passionate about applying the scientific method in horticultural studies. This position will support a research and extension program in nursery production at the Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Virginia Beach, VA. This will be a 36-month, benefits-eligible position. Continuation beyond the 36-month appointment will be based on performance and availability of funds.
The prospective candidate will oversee and manage research experiments in the field (nursery and greenhouse production), as well as assist with laboratory-based experiments. The candidate will assist in data archiving and collection, including measuring (1) different aspects of plant growth such as how shoots and roots develop, the shape and structure of the root system, and how the plant functions overall, (2) soilless substrate physical and chemical properties, (3) water analysis, and (4) possible entomology metrics.
This position is tailored for applicants with a passion and interest in horticulture, soils, or environmental science, providing the opportunity to strengthen their experience in both research and field work, particularly if graduate school is of interest. This position presents a unique opportunity for an entry level to limited-experience applicant to gain significant research and writing experience, including potential article co-authorship in peer-refereed journals.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Soil Science, Plant Science, Biology, Environmental Science, or other related fields and/or equivalent years of training and experience. Strong organizational and communication skills and can contribute to a positive work environment. The candidate must be proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. The selected candidate must have the ability to manage several assignments concurrently (i.e., multi-manage).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in nursery production, maintenance of ornamental plants, data analysis.
Pay Band
3
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with experience.
Review Date
January 17, 2025
Additional Information
To complete the application process, please include a resume, CV and references.
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check and a drivers background check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Kris Criscione at kscriscione@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer
