What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate Life Science II position at Inside Higher Ed?
Posting Number:
S14822P
Working Title:
Research Associate Life Science II
Department:
CAES-Crop & Soil Sciences
About The University Of Georgia:
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.
Posting Type:
External
Retirement Plan:
TRS or ORP
Employment Type:
Employee
Benefits Eligibility:
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part Time:
Full Time
Additional Schedule Information:
Schedule is to be determined by the Supervisor.
Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with Experience
Posting Date:
03/06/2026
Open Until Filled:
Yes
Proposed Starting Date:
04/01/2026
Special Instructions To Applicants:
Please include: Cover Letter, Resume and a list of References.
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 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as 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 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Classification Title:
Res Associate-Life Science II
FLSA:
Exempt
FTE:
1.00
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications:
The position supports applied research and extension activities focused on soil fertility, nutrient management, and soil health in Georgia’s major agronomic crops. The Research Associate will independently design and coordinate field and laboratory-based research activities, manage soil and plant sampling protocols, ensure data quality, and analyze and interpret results to support science-based recommendations. In addition to research responsibilities, the position plays a key role in translating findings into extension outputs, including publications, presentations, and decision-support materials for growers, extension agents, and industry partners. The position also contributes substantially to the development of external grant proposals by generating preliminary data, drafting technical content, and aligning research objectives with funding priorities. This role includes regular collaboration across research, extension, and stakeholder networks and represents the soil fertility program in professional and public-facing settings.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies:
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:
60
Duties/Responsibilities:
20
Duties/Responsibilities:
15
Duties/Responsibilities:
5
Contact Details:
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name:
Douglas Amaral
Recruitment Contact Email:
amaral@uga.edu
S14822P
Working Title:
Research Associate Life Science II
Department:
CAES-Crop & Soil Sciences
About The University Of Georgia:
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.
Posting Type:
External
Retirement Plan:
TRS or ORP
Employment Type:
Employee
Benefits Eligibility:
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part Time:
Full Time
Additional Schedule Information:
Schedule is to be determined by the Supervisor.
Advertised Salary:
Commensurate with Experience
Posting Date:
03/06/2026
Open Until Filled:
Yes
Proposed Starting Date:
04/01/2026
Special Instructions To Applicants:
Please include: Cover Letter, Resume and a list of References.
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 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as 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 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Classification Title:
Res Associate-Life Science II
FLSA:
Exempt
FTE:
1.00
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- PhD degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Crop Science, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated experience conducting field- and laboratory-based soil fertility or nutrient management research.
- Experience with applied agricultural research, data management, and interpretation of soil and plant analytical results.
- Experience working with extension, grower, or stakeholder-facing programs is preferred.
The position supports applied research and extension activities focused on soil fertility, nutrient management, and soil health in Georgia’s major agronomic crops. The Research Associate will independently design and coordinate field and laboratory-based research activities, manage soil and plant sampling protocols, ensure data quality, and analyze and interpret results to support science-based recommendations. In addition to research responsibilities, the position plays a key role in translating findings into extension outputs, including publications, presentations, and decision-support materials for growers, extension agents, and industry partners. The position also contributes substantially to the development of external grant proposals by generating preliminary data, drafting technical content, and aligning research objectives with funding priorities. This role includes regular collaboration across research, extension, and stakeholder networks and represents the soil fertility program in professional and public-facing settings.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies:
- Advanced knowledge of soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and soil management principles in agronomic cropping systems.
- Ability to independently design, implement, and troubleshoot research protocols across multiple locations and cropping systems.
- Strong analytical skills, including data quality control, statistical interpretation, and synthesis of research results.
- Ability to integrate research findings into practical recommendations and extension materials.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills for scientific, extension, and stakeholder audiences.
- Work extended hours in field settings under hot and humid conditions.
- Travel long distances occasionally
- Lifting and handling of field equipment
- Driving as needed to perform job duties
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:
- Conduct literature reviews and analyze current research findings on plant nutrition, soil fertility, and nutrient management best practices.
- Develop user‑friendly extension and outreach materials—including fact sheets, presentations, infographics, and digital content—to communicate scientific information to growers, educators, and stakeholders.
- Collaborate with faculty, specialists, and field agents to translate research data into practical recommendations for agricultural producers.
- Collecting, organizing, and summarizing field trial results to support evidence‑based nutrient management guidance.
- Maintain and update educational resources to reflect emerging research, regulatory changes, and industry trends in soil fertility management.
60
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Identify grant opportunities that align with program goals and prepare required application materials, including narratives, budgets, timelines, and supporting documents.
- Drafting, editing, and formatting competitive grant proposals to ensure clarity, compliance, and alignment with sponsor guidelines.
- Coordinate with faculty, administrators, and project teams to gather project details, cost estimates, and letters of support.
- Maintain organized records of grant submissions, deadlines, reporting requirements, and funding outcomes.
20
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Draft, edit, and format manuscripts for submission to peer‑reviewed journals, ensuring clarity, scientific accuracy, and adherence to publication guidelines.
- Compile and interpret research data, tables, and figures to effectively communicate study findings.
- Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and co‑authors to revise manuscripts based on internal feedback and peer‑review comments.
- Conduct literature reviews to support manuscript development and ensure research is grounded in current scientific knowledge.
- Manage submission workflows, including journal selection, document preparation, and tracking manuscript revisions and publication timelines.
15
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Coordinate with faculty, staff, county agents, and external partners to support program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
- Organize meetings, workshops, field days, and other program activities, ensuring smooth communication and logistical support.
- Contribute to team projects by gathering information, preparing materials, and helping maintain timelines and deliverables.
- Foster effective communication across departments and stakeholder groups to ensure alignment of program goals and activities.
5
Contact Details:
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name:
Douglas Amaral
Recruitment Contact Email:
amaral@uga.edu