Research Technician - Entomology & Plant Pathology

About the position

The purpose of this position is to support the research efforts of the PI and graduate students in the Ahumada laboratory. Responsibilities may require executing field trials by assisting with plants, assessment, chemical sprays, and harvest. This is a time-limited role with a part-time schedule (.80 FTE).

Responsibilities

• Assist in setup, maintenance, and harvest of field trials
• Mix and/or apply chemicals and/or other materials in accordance with state/federal regulations
• Independently and safely operate and drive a variety of pickup trucks to multiple locations on a routine basis
• Observe, collect, and record data, such as disease incidence, severity, defoliation, injury, and yield
• Maintain plants and microbial cultures, as needed by the lab projects
• Maintain inventory of equipment, supplies, and related research materials
• Support ongoing research efforts in the Ahumada laboratory by setting up, coordinating, and maintaining field research trials
• Calibrate and operate backpack sprayers

Requirements

• Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work
• Pesticide Applicator License
• Ability to work under adverse weather conditions (cold, heat, humidity, rain and pollen)
• A valid NC Driver's license

Nice-to-haves

• Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work