Faculty Research Assistant: Horticulture
About The Position
The Department of Horticulture in the College of Agricultural Sciences invites applications for a full-time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, fixed-term Faculty Research Assistant position supporting weed science in vegetable crop production. The role conducts greenhouse and field research, contributes to scholarly activities and publications, and provides objective, science-based information. The incumbent will manage field trials in conventional and organic production settings, and maintain and operate field research equipment. Reappointment is at the discretion of the Department Head. The position includes field and greenhouse work in cold, hot, wet, and dusty conditions; work with agricultural chemicals and around heavy machinery; and driving to research sites. The regular schedule may require occasional overnight travel and work outside normal working hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends. The anticipated start date is January 11, 2027, and the anticipated end date is June 30, 2027. Starting salary will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree by time of hire in plant sciences, crop science, horticulture, weed science, pest management, biology, natural resources, or a related field.
- Experience conducting field and laboratory research, including experimental design.
- Experience with basic statistical analysis of data.
- Experience operating and maintaining tractor and field equipment; skill with power tools; and ability to drive trailers to move equipment.
- General computer knowledge, including proficiency with information technology, professional office software, and collaborative work platforms.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Must have or be able to obtain an Oregon Department of Agriculture Pesticide Consultant License with the Demonstration and Research option within six months of employment, and maintain it through employment.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a group of temporary employees and students.
- Demonstrable commitment to collaborative and respectful learning and working environments that are safe, inclusive, and welcoming.
- Ability to learn and adapt to multiple digital communication systems, including websites, email newsletters, and other tools in a changing technological environment.
- Must successfully complete a criminal history check and be determined position-qualified under University Standard 05-010 et seq.; incumbents must self-report convictions.
- Must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined position-qualified, and self-report convictions under University Policy 05-030.
- Ability to carry, lift, push, and pull items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in weed science research.
- Supervisory experience.
- Experience operating and maintaining tractor equipment.
- Experience in a research environment.
- Proficiency with ARM Statistical Software and R.
Responsibilities
- Collect and compile research data for greenhouse and field research trials.
- Help design, develop, implement, and maintain field trials on the research farm and grower fields.
- Maintain and operate field research equipment, keep it in good condition, and maintain equipment maintenance records.
- Provide agronomic management for research farm field trials, including nutrition, irrigation, and pest management.
- Ensure compliance with herbicide applications and organic certification requirements, and maintain records for all field plots.
- Prepare reports and analyze data for grower reports, extension meetings, peer-reviewed and extension publications, and presentations at scientific symposiums or conferences.
- Supervise student workers.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
