Research Assistant

Texas A&M University System • Overton, TX

5d • Onsite

About The Position

About Texas A&M AgriLife Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Texas A&M AgriLife Research College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University Texas A&M Forest Service Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory As the nation’s largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service. Click here to learn more about how you can be a part of AgriLife and make a difference in the world! Position Information The Research Assistant performs skilled, administrative, and managerial support in research. Plans and directs certain phases in a research project.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Knowledge of laboratory maintenance and equipment.
• Knowledge of computers and computer software related to the position.
• Good command of the English language for assisting with writing reports.
• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to lift heavy objects and/or equipment repeatedly.
• Ability to travel to farms in Texas.
• Must be able to work in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assists in the design, planning, and coordinating of experiments in support of various research projects.
• Selects and applies standard techniques of routine research and keeps detailed records of data.
• Perform cultural practices for field and greenhouse experiments.
• Performs grounds preparation, planting, cultivation, irrigation, etc.; calculate rates and apply agrochemicals including fertilizer and pesticides, adhering to applicable procedural and safety regulations; perform plant propagation practices; prepare and collect data from experiments; and manage weed suppression.
• Performs preparation of growth media, seeding, transplanting, potting, watering, feeding, etc.; maintain pest control adhering to applicable procedural and safety regulations; prepare and collect data from experiments; and manage weed suppression.
• Processes and analyzes data from experiments and write up results.
• Performs routine maintenance and upkeep of farm, shop, and greenhouse equipment and work areas using good and safe work habits following all applicable regulations.
• Oversees maintenance and repair of irrigation systems.
• Solves problems specific to the mechanics of small plot work.
• Weekend work may include irrigating field and greenhouse plots and various jobs during planting and harvest seasons.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
• 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
• Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level