Research Associate - Phytotron and NC Plant Sciences Initiative

Description

Posting Information

Posting Number PG192441EP
Internal Recruitment No
Working Title Research Associate - Phytotron and NC Plant Sciences Initiative
Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience
Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8am-5pm
Job Location Raleigh, NC
Department Phytotron
About the Department The Southeastern Plant Laboratory, commonly called the Phytotron, is a facility especially designed for research dealing with the response of biological organisms to their environment. The high degree of control within 60 growth chambers and 5 greenhouses makes it possible to duplicate any climate from tropical rain forests to arid desert. The NC State Phytotron concentrates on applied and basic research related to agricultural problems encountered in the southeastern United States. The ability to control all phases of the environment, however, allows inclusion of research dealing with all aspects of plant science. The facilities are provided for NC State faculty to conduct the necessary research to allow them to secure federal grants, such as NSF and USDA as well as for commercial research laboratories use (for a fee).

The N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative (PSI) supports wide-ranging research, education and training, and extension by creating an environment and culture in which such learning activities can thrive through the convergence of interdisciplinary collaborations. Headquartered in the NC State University Plant Sciences Building, this new research and application ecosystem combines world-class assets from across a wide spectrum of disciplines including plant sciences, engineering, economics, modeling, and data analytics. The N.C. PSI builds partnerships among academia, industry, and government to maximize understanding of the challenges and opportunities, and ensure rapid delivery of solutions.
Essential Job Duties The Research Associate will be responsible for setting up and maintaining specialized controlled environment equipment, designing and conducting controlled environment research and assist with the day-to-day operations of the growth facilities in the Plant Sciences Building. The incumbent will identify plant growth issues occurring in growth facilities, troubleshoot and research to find resolutions. The Research Associate will follow APHIS and NCSU regulations for maintaining a BSL3P laboratory and greenhouse. The incumbent will consult and assist researchers in setting up grant-sponsored research experiments, as well as develop and document protocols. The incumbent will be expected to work independently and also collaboratively with other working groups, graduate students and post-docs. This position will be located in the Plants Sciences Initiative building.
Duties will include but not limited to:

• Interact directly with Plant Sciences Building Research Project Coordinator.
• Act as a greenhouse manager and will manage BSL2 greenhouses, growth chambers & headhouse for proper operation & maintenance.
• Independently identify, troubleshoot, report controlled environment issues that either biological or mechanical.
• Set, maintain and inspect environmental factors daily (eg. temperature, humidity, photon flux density, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration, daylength); maintain water and nutrient solution integrity; maintain detailed computerized environmental and space use records.
• Ensure proper operation and record keeping of the BSL3 lab and greenhouse and associated specialized equipment (EDS system, autoclave, etc.)
• Independently collect data using specialized equipment, analyze, summarize and report.
• Comply with all the NCSU health & safety regulations.
• Carry out research experiments related to plant growth & performance in various controlled environmental conditions.
• Supervise students
• Drive light equipment such as a personal lift

Other Responsibilities

• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Biology, Crop Science, or a relevant field, or a relevant Bachelor’s Degree with at least three (3) years of experience supporting relevant research.

Other Required Qualifications

• Security clearance for BSL3 (Candidate may fulfill requirements during probation period)
• Ability to work independently

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
• Ability to work well in a dynamic team environment.
• Knowledge of Plant Pathology, Entomology and basic plant science.
• At least three (3) years of progressive controlled environment experience.
• At least one (1) year experience working in a collaborative team environment.

Required License(s) or Certification(s)

• Valid NC Pesticide Applicator’s License or the ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire.
• Valid Driver’s License is required and the ability to obtain a NC Driver’s License within 60 days of hire.

Valid NC Driver's License required Yes
Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date 03/06/2023
Anticipated Close Date Open until filled.
Special Instructions to Applicants Please attach a Cover Letter, CV, and contact information for three professional references.
Position Details

Position Number 00109727
Position Type EHRA Non-Faculty
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00
Appointment 12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Medical Emergencies
Is this position partially or fully funded on ARRA stimulus monies? No
Department ID 111701 - Phytotron
AA/EEO NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or [email protected].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.