Visiting Research Specialist in Plant Breeding, CABBI

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Urbana, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Center for Advanced Bioenergy Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) is seeking a full-time Research Specialist in a plant breeding environment to conduct and manage research on plant breeding and genetics of Miscanthus. Successful candidates will work on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus and at the Illinois Energy Farm, south of campus. The work is in a plant breeding laboratory with bioenergy grasses including Miscanthus, sugarcane and their hybrids, to support the bioeconomy.

Requirements

BS in Plant Science or closely related field.
Two years applied plant science research experience.
Current Illinois Pesticide Applicator License or the ability to obtain one within a specified timeframe after hire.
Knowledge of plant breeding and genetics research.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Plant Science or a closely related field.
Three years grass and/or forage breeding and genetic research experience.
Experience leading and supervising a field research crew.
Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of greenhouses, tractors, threshers and small farm equipment.

Responsibilities

Prepare and execute experiments on plant breeding and genetics of Miscanthus.
Make crosses between selected Miscanthus genotypes.
Supervise the cultivation of plants in the field and greenhouse, and propagation of plants in preparation of field trials.
Collect data from research experiments, using high-throughput systems that include designing barcodes, setting up and using Bluetooth enabled measuring devices, and linking the collection devices to tablet computers for in-field data collection.
Supervise the hiring and work of hourly employees.
Manage data files and organize completed files on the local area network.
Coordinate and participate in off-campus field experiments with collaborators.
Conduct routine maintenance on field plot research equipment.
Maintain inventories of supplies, equipment, seed, and plants in the greenhouses.
Order supplies as needed.