Research: Responsible for defining goals for given research projects in conjunction with faculty. Conduct research projects, such as the development and implementation of chemical analysis procedures for the soil and water laboratory. Analyze plant, soil, and water samples. Ensure proper operation, maintenance, calibration, and compliance with safety standards for laboratory instruments. Train postdoctoral research associates, visiting scientists, graduate students, and research assistants on proper instrument techniques. Advise technicians and other workers in test procedures for analyzing physical properties of materials. Analyze, interpret and present data using Excel, PowerPoint and other bioinformatic tools. Utilize findings to aid PI in development of novel procedures, modify existing procedures, and formulate hypotheses. Participate in grant writing in collaboration with PI. Manage timetables for sampling or data collection from assigned projects; prepare quarterly progress reports for PI.
Properly handle, package and dispose of lab-generated hazardous chemical waste to central collection room monthly. Prepare lab for annual safety inspections, maintain SDS, chemical inventory and equipment logs
Greenhouse: Manage greenhouse and field instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed. Conduct quality control tests on materials and other substances, to ensure that safety and quality standards are met. Travel throughout Florida is required to visit experimental sites.
Administrative: Perform literature reviews, write and proofread manuscripts for publications, format manuscripts and references for specific journals using Endnote. Update and maintain chemical inventory records, and ensure compliance with inventory management policies. Oversee OPS employees. Assist the supervisor in responding to requests from extension agents, industry stakeholders, and other researchers regarding plant nutritional issues and evaluations.