Research Scientist Arboriculture

Bartlett Tree Experts•Charlotte, NC

28d•Hybrid

About The Position

The F.A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company (BTE) is a premier commercial/residential tree care company that employs over 500 arborist representatives and 3,500 total employees in more than 130 offices across the United States, Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories (BTRL) are the research, diagnostic, and technical training heart of the BTE. Our mission is to advance tree research and diagnose plant problems to improve plant health care for our clients. The BTRL is composed of laboratories in Charlotte, North Carolina; Cornelius, Oregon; and Reading, United Kingdom. The Charlotte laboratory serves as the central research and diagnostic center. It is housed within our 360-acre, ArbNet Level IV accredited arboretum and research grounds containing over 32,000 accessioned trees and shrubs, including major collections of magnolia, oak, crapemyrtle, crabapple, holly, and many other key woody plant groups and rare plants for conservation purposes.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Tree Physiology, Urban Forestry, or closely related program of study
Proficiency with field plot and lab experimental design and statistical analysis
Experience/knowledge of integrated pest management and soil science
Professional experience or studies in woody landscape plant identification
Excellent verbal and written communication skills; proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
Experience giving scientific presentations/trainings for many types of audiences such as the scientific community, arborists, public, industry, etc.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel, including overnight travel for research, meetings, and branch office technical support

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of or willingness to learn field and lab-based diagnostic techniques relevant to arboriculture, such as soil testing, decay detection, and microscopy
Knowledge of ISA Best Management Practices and urban tree management principles
A balanced background in both lab and field experimentation and including techniques relevant to arboriculture such as tree stability assessments, soil analysis, root system evaluations, and physiological monitoring of tree responses to environmental conditions
Familiarity with cultural and mechanical strategies for managing tree health, including pruning techniques, soil amendments, mulching practices, and other factors that influence tree structure and development

Responsibilities

Develop applied research programs in arboriculture with emphasis on practical, science-based approaches to enhancing tree health, structural integrity, and resilience to environmental stressors in urban and managed landscapes.
Research topics may include biomechanics, pruning practices, structural support systems, root management, tree preservation, and/or lightning protection, with flexibility to determine priorities based on emerging needs and opportunities.
When appropriate, develop cooperative research with academia, nonprofit, government, and allied businesses and organizations to evaluate innovative solutions and best practices in arboriculture and landscape management.
Regularly publish research results in scientific or technical journals, industry trade magazines, and company publications.
Work directly with BTE Arborists to diagnose plant health issues and translate scientific findings into management recommendations.
Provide on‐site technical support and training to BTE offices, including field-based diagnostic support of tree and shrub problems.
Develop and maintain Bartlett technical management recommendations with emphasis on arboricultural practices and environmental factors affecting tree growth.
Develop and revise Technical Reports (factsheets) for use by BTE staff and the public.
Create educational programs on landscape plant issues for educational use by company personnel and clients.
Answer requests for information from BTE arborists via phone, text, MS Teams, and email.
Participate in BTE sponsored training programs through lectures, field sessions, and lab demonstrations including: Bi-annual technical update sessions, Division sales meetings, BTE sponsored client seminars and Client Days events, Arborist representative and plant health care specialist training sessions.
Develop and maintain contacts with tree care industry professionals and societies (e.g. International Society of Arboriculture, Tree Care Industry Association) as appropriate through conference meetings, committee work, and cooperative studies.
Serve on professional boards or committees to represent BTE’s interests and expertise within the industry.
Lead and organize the activities of Research Associates, ensuring alignment with research goals, training, and operational standards.
Provide regular updates on research progress and field activities to the Director of Research at BTRL.