Part-Time Research Professional - Li Lab

Part-Time Research Professional – Li Lab

Classification:
Lab Tech-Life Science III – Non-Exempt – 0.60 FTE – Part Time.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team as a temporary research professional in soybean breeding and genetics. The successful candidate in this position will function as an integral member of a team to conduct soybean breeding and genetics molecular and field experiments. Our research is focused on developing high-yielding soybean cultivars with herbicide tolerance, enhanced seed composition, insect and pathogen resistance;

exploring QTLs for disease, insect resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, and seed composition using genome-wide association or bi-parent mapping approaches; identifying markers or haplotypes for precision marker‑assisted selection; employing molecular breeding techniques to strategically pyramid or introgress QTLs/genes into elite soybean germplasm; and implementing genomic selection/prediction methodologies to enhance soybean yield.

The candidate will be responsible for genotyping, molecular breeding and QTL discovery in the laboratory, as well as developing or implementing phenotyping methods for traits of interest in greenhouse or field settings. They will analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions, assist in writing project progress reports, and contribute to the publication of findings in scientific journals.

High school diploma or equivalent and 5 years of related experience.

Ph.D. in Plant Breeding and Genetics or a related field, demonstrating significant expertise in marker/
QTL discovery and molecular breeding. Background in statistical analysis of sequencing, marker, and field data.

• Profound organizational capabilities and attention to details.
• Strong proficiency in written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced team‑oriented environment.

• Perform statistical analyses of genotypic and phenotypic data (40% of time).
• Interpret the results.
• Write manuscripts, publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals, and assist in writing the project progress reports.
• Plan and execute the experiments to genetically map/confirm QTLs for traits of importance and perform genotyping for molecular breeding (20% of time).
• Develop phenotyping methods and conduct phenotyping for the traits of importance in greenhouse or field environments (20% of time).
• Engage in field‑based breeding operations, including tasks such as experimental design, seed packaging, planting envelope layout and planting (20% of time).

• Standing, conducting repetitive work and working at the bench.
• Operate lab instruments and work within a specified timeline for some projects.

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).