Research Analyst (Weed Science) with University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky

Job Summary: This position is key to success of the molecular weeds research program at the University of Kentucky. The duties of this position contribute to communal goals of the department as well as specific goals to the research program. Duties include, but are not limited to: Managing herbicide trials in the greenhouses, assisting in laboratory functions ranging from metabolism and translocation of herbicide studies to DNA extraction for next-generation sequencing, small amounts of field research or germplasm collection, guided data analysis and writing reports.

Physical Requirements: Lifting, pushing, pulling objects up to 50 lbs, standing and walking

Major Job Responsibility – Planning, establishing, and maintaining herbicide efficacy trials

Essential functions: Growing plants in the greenhouse, spraying plants with herbicides using spray chamber, and rating the plants for herbicide damage

Competencies / Skills: Meticulous record keeping and ability to follow safety protocols

Percent of time: 50%

Major Job Responsibility – Laboratory management

Essential functions: Maintaining chemicals, reagents and disposable lab supplies. Assisting graduate students in basic laboratory work such as DNA extraction and/or sequencing genes from primers. May also supervise undergrad employees or graduate students while in the laboratory.

Competencies / Skills: Willingness to learn and follow safety protocols.

Percent of time: 35%

Major Job Responsibility – Miscellaneous task, analysis, and report writing

Essential functions: Miscellaneous task (likely field work) and writing reports/ assisting with manuscripts. Following standardized procedures for data analysis.

Competencies / Skills: Basic English language skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, excel, onedrive)

Percent of time: 15%  

We are encouraging people with either a master’s degree (in biology, agriculture, horticulture, entomology etc., no experience required with M.S.) or a bachelor’s degree with two years of agricultural/horticultural/pest management experience to apply.