Research Technician (Plant Pathology)

Research Technician - Plant Pathology

Position Summary:

Gowan Company is seeking a Plant Pathology Research Technician with experience in screening techniques for crop protection products, particularly in laboratory, growth chambers and greenhouse environments. The ideal candidate will support laboratory, greenhouse, and field research by conducting various tasks related to crop protection efficacy testing. This role is essential for assisting the research and development team in evaluating the performance of crop protection products.

Location: 8th Street Laboratory, Gowan Company, University of Arizona Facilities


Reports to: Plant Pathology Research Manager 

Responsibilities:

Assist in all phases of the research process, performing technical duties in laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings, including:

• Set up and score in vitro and in vivo bioassays for different plant pathogens, weeds, and insects.


• Maintain plant materials required for laboratory and greenhouse trials.


• Support horticultural tasks such as sowing, transplanting, irrigating, and fertilizing plants.


• Assist in executing day-to-day activities for raising and monitoring experimental units in laboratory, greenhouse, and field settings.


• Prepare pathogen growth media, for microbes and inoculate plants as required.


• Clean and sanitize laboratory and greenhouse facilities.


• Clean and organize laboratory materials, including glassware and storage trays.


• Maintain an inventory of chemicals, stock solutions, and lab materials; prepare solutions and safely dispose of waste materials.


• Collect, prepare, and verify samples and supporting records for experiments.


• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and ensure the facility is in good working order.


• Digitally document experimental observations and data for research trials.


• Keep detailed records of experimental data and pictures using computer and software programs.


• Assist in preparing reports and regularly update the Research Manager on research progress.


• Monitor and adjust greenhouse environmental controls (temperature, humidity, irrigation, shade, and ventilation systems) to maintain optimal growing conditions.


• Monitor greenhouse crops for non-experimental pests, diseases, and weeds, and support integrated pest management (IPM) practices to protect trial integrity.


• Follow biosafety and quarantine protocols when handling regulated plant pathogens and other biological materials.


• Calibrate and maintain application equipment (e.g., sprayers, spray chambers) used for efficacy testing.


• Handle and dispose of hazardous and regulated waste (including pesticide materials) in compliance with EPA and other applicable regulations.


• Work closely with Study Directors, research associates, and other technicians to ensure trial data integrity and compliance with study protocols.


• Other Duties as assigned

Education and Work Experience:

• Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Biology, or a related field.


• 1-2 years of experience working in laboratory, greenhouse, or field environments (small-plot agricultural research preferred).


• Experience with plant bioassays, microbiological techniques, and maintaining laboratory/greenhouse equipment.


• Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.

These reflect the biological nature of Gowan's portfolio and are preferred, not required, at entry level:

• Prior exposure to microbial or biological crop protection products (bacterial, fungal, or botanical based).


• Basic aseptic technique for handling live microbial cultures.


• Familiarity with trial data software such as ARM, Statistix, or similar (or willingness to learn).


• Comfort using a camera or smartphone for standardized plant health documentation.

Required Skills:

• Strong organizational, observational, and time management skills.


• Ability to work in demanding and varied agricultural environments (hot, humid, cold, dusty) throughout the year.


• Must be able to lift 50 lbs.


• Regular exposure to plant pathogens, insects, dust, pollen, and agrochemicals; must comply with all PPE requirements (gloves, coveralls, respirators, eye protection) and Worker Protection Standard (WPS) training.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.


• Basic computer experience required, including familiarity with Microsoft Office.


• Flexibility to work occasionally on weekends and holidays.


• Must be licensed to operate a motor vehicle.