Research & Development Manager

Research & Development Manager

Plan, design, manage, coordinate and conduct research projects on breeding and genetics of several herbs, vegetables and ornamental plant species independently.  

• Develop and/or utilize various techniques for physiological or molecular screening of plants for expression of different genetic traits.  These methods could include: whole plant measurements in the greenhouse and field and quantitative analyses of plant molecular or biochemical constituents in the laboratory.  All efforts would be directed toward breeding and genetic improvement of many horticultural plant species.
• Write and review manuscripts for scientific and trade publications.  ASSIST the PI with: preparing and submitting competitive grants, preparing and presenting scientific presentations, preparing annual and bi-annual reports for granting agencies, providing crop culture and postharvest handling and care information to growers, breeders and other industry clientele.
• Plan, coordinate and supervise work assignments for senior biological scientist, agricultural technician, graduate students, OPS employees and work-study students.  Train, guide and hire employees.
• Coordinate and monitor efficient transfer of technologies from the lab to the greenhouse.
• Perform statistical data analyses and interpretations including analysis of variance, repeated measures analysis of variance, regression analysis, correlation analysis and other statistical analyses using multiple statistical analysis tools. 

$80,500

 Master’s degree in an appropriate area and seven years of relevant experience.

•  Ability to assist with writing scientific and trade journal articles.

• Ability to assist with preparation and submission of competitive grants.

• Ability to recommend and implement operating policies and procedures of an analytical laboratory.

In-depth knowledge and understanding of plant anatomy and physiology processes related to plant development and the influence of environment on plant development in the overall context of a plant breeding program.

• In-depth knowledge and understanding of plant genetics related to selection and improvement of ornamental plants and building cultivar release pipelines.

• Knowledge and experience in evaluating commercially important traits for numerous species of horticultural plants in both greenhouse and field conditions.

•  Skilled in basic laboratory and analytical techniques and equipment.  These could include: basic knowledge of quantitative chemistry for solution preparations; basic molecular biology techniques and genetic transformation of plants; tissue preparations and analysis for microscopic investigations using light and confocal light microscopy, plant volatile collections and quantification using gas chromatography; quantification of flower/leaf pigments. 

• Knowledge of greenhouse production techniques including plant propagation and crop culture of various horticultural plant species.  Ability to recognize plant phenotypes for developing and evaluating new variety introductions for breeding programs.  Ability to recognize common plant nutrient deficiencies, diseases and pests.

• Experience in directing, modifying, designing, and conducting plant breeding research experiments in greenhouse, field and controlled environment evaluation rooms. 

• Familiar and knowledgeable of horticulture industry clientele.

• Communicate effectively verbally and present scientific and industry presentations.

•  Skilled in experimental designs, statistical analyses and interpretation of results from research experiments.

•  Ability to coordinate student workers and communicate with members of other collaborating labs.

•  Ability to supervise staff and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and CV.  

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.