FWS , Horticulture Greenhouse Production Research Assistant

Job Title

FWS Spring 2026, Horticulture Greenhouse Production Research Assistant

DU14416

1B531:

Federal Work Study

4321 Emmert Farm Ln Lexington, KY 40514

$12.00 - $20.00

Student

Part-Time

Must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at the UK and eligible for the Federal Work Study program.

No prior professional experience required; training will be provided.

N/A

Willingness to work in greenhouse conditions (warm, humid environments) and perform light physical tasks

Weekdays:
Monday – Friday between 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Assist with plant propagation activities, including seed sowing, transplanting, and grafting of greenhouse tomato and cucumber plants.
• Perform routine crop maintenance tasks such as pruning, training, trellising, deleafing, pollination, and general plant care.
• Prepare and mix fertilizer solutions according to established nutrient recipes and assist with fertigation system setup and monitoring.
• Conduct plant measurements and assist with research data collection, including plant growth parameters, yield assessment, and physiological measurements.
• Take and organize photos to document plant development, treatments, and experimental progress.
• Assist with greenhouse sanitation, substrate preparation, irrigation setup, and general facility maintenance.
• Label plants, treatments, and experimental units to maintain accurate experimental organization.
• Enter and organize collected data in spreadsheets or databases as directed by the research team.
• Follow greenhouse safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized workspace.

Attention to detail and ability to follow research protocols. Ability to work both independently and as part of a research team.

No

Basic familiarity with plant care, gardening, greenhouse work, or agricultural activities is preferred. Ability to follow instructions, maintain accurate records, and work carefully with plants and research materials. Horticulture, Sustainable Agriculture and Community Food Systems, or Biosystems Engineering majors preferred.

04/27/2026

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Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.