Research Assistant - Phytotron and NC PSI

North Carolina State University, United States

Updated: about 2 months ago
Location: Raleigh, NORTH CAROLINA
Deadline: ;

Posting Details
Posting Information


Posting Number PG193216EP
Internal Recruitment No
Working Title Research Assistant - Phytotron and NC PSI
Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience
Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm (occasional longer work days or Saturday, in case of emergency)
Job Location Raleigh, NC
Department Southeastern Plant Laboratory (Phytotron)
About the Department
The Southeastern Plant Laboratory, commonly called the phytotron, is a facility specially 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 Assistant will be responsible for designing and conducting controlled environment research and assisting 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 assist in finding resolutions. The Research Assistant 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 collaboratively with other working groups, graduate students and post-docs. This position will be located in the Plants Sciences Building on Centennial Campus.
Duties will include but not be limited to:
  • Interact directly with the Plant Sciences Building Research Project Coordinator.
  • Carry out research experiments related to plant growth & performance in various controlled environmental conditions.
  • Set, maintain, and inspect environmental factors daily (eg. temperature, humidity, photon flux density, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration, day length); maintain water and nutrient solution integrity; maintain detailed computerized environmental and space use records.
  • Work in the BSL3 lab and greenhouse, BSL2 greenhouses & growth chambers.
  • Collect data using specialized equipment, summarize, and report.
  • Comply with all the NCSU health & safety regulations. Occasional weekend work is required.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Other Responsibilities

Qualifications


Minimum Education and Experience
  • Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree, or relevant Bachelor’s degree plus three (3) or more years of independent research experience, or substantial relevant independent experience and education. May require terminal degree and licensure.
  • At least 2 years of greenhouse and controlled environment experience.
Other Required Qualifications
  • Security clearance for BSL3 (Candidate may fulfill requirements during probation period).
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ability to work well in a dynamic team environment.
  • Knowledge of Plant Pathology, Entomology and basic plant science.
  • Experience with Argus control systems and software
  • Experience with Percival chamber controllers and software
  • Information Technology or programming experience a plus
  • At least two (2) 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 Application License or the ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire.
  • Valid Driver’s Licence and the ability to obtain an NC Driver’s Licence within 60 days of hire.


The incumbent will need to drive light equipment such as a personal lift and electric forklift.
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes
Commercial Driver's License required No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions


Job Open Date 02/14/2024
Anticipated Close Date Open until filled.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach a Cover Letter, CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references.

Position Details


Position Number 00110632
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
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.

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