Research Associate - Horticultural

Position Summary:
The Horticultural Research Associate position is a full-time position. The purpose of this position is to provide
technical support to the Lincoln University Hydroponic Research Program by executing horticulture research
involving hydroponic crop production in protected agriculture (greenhouse) facility.

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities
1) Execute hydroponic experiments, i.e., a) propagate and transplant seedlings into hydroponic culture (NFT,
aggregate), b) prepare nutrient solutions for hydroponic culture, c) collect and maintain daily record of pH
and EC of nutrient solution, d) harvest and preserve plant tissue at termination of every experiment, e)
weigh all fresh and dried plant tissue and transfer experimental data into MS-Excel spreadsheets.
2) Monitor all GH experiments frequently for disease infection and insect infestation and keep record of such.
Initiate treatments as needed.
3) Daily maintenance of hydroponic greenhouse: inspect and ensure proper operation of cooling/heating
system, vents, and irrigation/fertigation equipment and fertilizer injectors.
4) Keep daily, weekly, or periodic records of greenhouse environmental data generated by the installed
weather station (temperature, relative humidity, etc.).
5) Manage hydroponic lab workspace, equipment, supplies and chemicals.
6) Assist in the preparation of requisitions for purchases.
7) Supervise student workers and casual employees and train them to use research equipment and instruments.

Knowledge, Skills, and Requirements
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in horticultural research.
• Possession of a current U.S Work Permit.
• Ability to work independently, and in a team.
• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently, and in a team.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Competency with MS-Word, MS-Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint™.
• Possess a Pesticide Application License.
Education and Experience
Ph.D. in Horticulture, or Agronomy; experience with the use of chemical analytical instruments.
Master's degree in Horticulture with demonstrated research experience.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift as much as 50 lbs. of potting soil or fertilizer bag
• Ability to work under the bright light conditions of the summer season.
• Ability to work for long hours in warm, humid greenhouse environments.
• Normal physical mobility is essential.
• Ability to cope with light sedentary laboratory work.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, functions, or
responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, functions, and activities may be modified,
changed or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice, subject to all applicable local, state, and federal
laws.

Current Openings for Research Associate Horticultural Jobs at Lincoln University of Missouri