Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About the College/Unit/Department
College/Unit/Department website
Posting Type
External
Retirement Plan
TRS or ORP
Employment Type
Employee
Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part time
Full Time
Work Schedule
Additional Schedule Information
Schedule is to be set by supervisor.
Advertised Salary
Commensurate with Experience
Posting Date
04/21/2026
Open until filled
Yes
Closing Date
Proposed Starting Date
05/04/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include a list of references, a cover letter and CV.
Location of Vacancy
Tifton Area
EEO Policy Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.
Bachelor's degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
Position Summary
The Research Associate is expected to be a creative, motivated, and skilled scientist who will participate in peanut genetics and breeding projects, with an emphasis on reducing aflatoxin contamination. This position involves planning, conducting, reporting, and publishing research in plant molecular genetics and biotechnology. Research responsibilities include population development through crossing and advancement; field, greenhouse, and laboratory phenotyping for aflatoxin contamination and other traits; gene expression analysis; genome sequencing and assembly; genetic mapping; molecular marker design and screening; and construct development for transformation. The scientist will manage research projects assigned by the principal investigator and supervise project personnel. They will make daily decisions regarding experimental design and execution while adhering to all safety procedures related to aflatoxin hazards. All supervised personnel will receive thorough safety training. Proposal applications will be developed collaboratively with colleagues and may be submitted independently.
This is a soft-funded position with the continued employment based on the needs of the project as well as the available funding and satisfactory job performance.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies
Design and conduct experiments with accuracy and efficiency to address questions specific to peanut genetics using molecular tools.
Work is performed independently as well as within a team and involves the adaptation of published procedures to peanut research or the development of new procedures.
Physical Demands
Lift at least 30 lbs.
Tolerate work in a field environment during summer
Driving as needed to perform job duties
Is driving a responsibility of this position?
Yes
Is this a Position of Trust?
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?
No
Does this position require a P-Card?
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?
No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?
No
Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)
Yes
Credit and P-Card policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.
Duties/Responsibilities
Duties/Responsibilities
Design scientifically sound experiments that advance peanut genetics and breeding objectives, selecting appropriate molecular, genomic, and phenotyping methods to address research goals related to aflatoxin reduction.
Coordinate and manage all experimental activities across laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings, including scheduling, organizing personnel, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring full compliance with aflatoxin safety procedures.
Conduct experiments and troubleshoot protocols involving population development, phenotyping, gene expression analysis, genome sequencing, genetic mapping, molecular marker screening, and construct development for transformation.
Analyze, interpret, and communicate research findings through data analysis, written reports, presentations, and contributions to peer-reviewed publications, ensuring accuracy and integrity from data collection through final interpretation.
Percentage of time
70
Duties/Responsibilities
Prepare clear and comprehensive project reports that document research progress, experimental outcomes, and recommendations for next steps.
Develop and contribute to grant proposals and research manuscripts, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with project goals and scientific standards.
Present research findings at project, commodity, and stakeholder meetings, effectively communicating results to collaborators and industry partners.
Share research outcomes at national and international scientific conferences, representing the program and contributing to broader scientific discussions.
Percentage of time
20
Duties/Responsibilities
Train technicians and students in laboratory, greenhouse, and field techniques, ensuring they understand research protocols and aflatoxin safety procedures.
Provide day-to-day supervision and guidance, overseeing task assignments, workflow, and adherence to quality and safety standards.
Mentor developing researchers, supporting their technical skill growth, troubleshooting, and professional development within the project.
Percentage of time
5
Duties/Responsibilities
Miscellaneous laboratory tasks
Other duties assigned
Percentage of time
5
Contact Information
Recruitment Contact
Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name
Peggy Ozias-Akins
Recruitment Contact Email
pozias@uga.edu
Recruitment Contact Phone
Posting Specific Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Resume/CV
Cover Letter
List of References with Contact Information
Optional Documents
Other Documents #1
Job ID: 83344470
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Median Salary
Net Salary per month
$3,519
Median Apartment Rent in City Center
(1-3 Bedroom)
$1,333
-
$2,306
$1,820
Safety Index
50/100
50
Utilities
Basic
(Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage for 915 sq ft apartment)
$85
-
$600
$157
High-Speed Internet
$50
-
$125
$64
Transportation
Gasoline
(1 gallon)
$2.76
Taxi Ride
(1 mile)
$3.75
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