Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

This Research Assistant will work as part of a diverse team of undergraduate and graduate students, and greenhouse technicians jointly in the labs of Dr. Roberto Lopez and Dr. Josh Vander Weide.

During the months of November to April. Dr. Lopez conducts applied research for the controlled environment agriculture (CEA) industry that includes greenhouses and indoor farms. Major crops of interest include floriculture (cut flowers, potted flowering plants, annuals and perennials, and tropical foliage) and food and edible crops (grown in hydroponics, containers, and vertical farming systems).

During the months of May to October. Dr. Vander Weide carries out applied research for the berry crops industries. Major berry crops of interest include blueberries (grown in outdoor field systems and greenhouse potted systems) and strawberries (grown in CEA systems).

Major responsibilities for both labs include, but are not limited to leading research activity, including experimental design, running experiments, data collection and analysis, writing and editing research reports, extension articles and manuscripts, procurement and maintenance of lab items, managing undergraduate researchers and assisting graduate students. The successful candidate must be able to lift up to 20 lbs. periodically as well as occasionally work in a hot field environment during summer months. The successful candidate must be able to commit and adhere to a regular work schedule within normal business hours. Since data collection is based on crop growth and development, the successful candidate may need to occasionally work on weekends or after hours. The successful candidate may occasionally need to travel to interact with other academics and horticulture industry professionals at meetings and conferences.

Employee performance will primarily be evaluated on the successful execution and deliverance of research and extension— specifically assisting in writing both scientific papers and extension publications—and meeting the other items under job requirements. The successful candidate is expected to work with Drs. Lopez and Vander Weide on these items, attend regular lab meetings, and help prioritize tasks and effectively manage their time.

Responsibilities will include:

Position Requirements:

• Develop a working knowledge of our greenhouse environmental control systems and help monitor systems, set controls for research, and respond to problems. Develop a working knowledge of berry crop field and CEA production systems and help monitor systems and respond to problems.
• Assist in the preparation of grant proposals, peer-reviewed scientific articles, and extension publications.
• The research technician is expected to primarily work on-site in their office, lab, growth chamber, greenhouse, or field and not remotely. Weekend time and extra hours may be necessary during periods of heavy data collection.
• Work diligently and efficiently on tasks. Be accessible during regular business hours by phone and/or email. Communicate with other faculty/staff/students/other within and outside this University in a professional and courteous manner.
• Be self-motivated and work independently with minimal supervision and also with other team members. Take responsibility and initiative on research projects and activities. As needed, ask questions or the job training regarding job details for greater clarity.
• Conduct and maintain one or more ongoing research project(s) in which the successful candidate is the main lead. In addition, assist graduate and undergraduate students with their research projects, writing and statistical analysis, and preparing for conferences and workshops.
• Participate in conferences and workshops. This includes, but not limited to, writing abstracts, giving presentations, and conducting demonstrations.
• Provide weekly updates of progress on research projects and other responsibilities in person to Dr. Lopez or Dr. Vander Weide at respective portions of the year.
• Notify Drs. Lopez and Vander Weide of issues, observations, problems, etc., that may impact the quality of research projects and team performance in a timely manner.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in horticulture, plant sciences or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in agriculture (CEA; greenhouse and/or indoor farm) and/or a field setting in the area of research being performed.  Basic computer skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.  Proficiency in R studio or other statistical software; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.   

Desired Qualifications

• Master of Science in horticulture, plant sciences, or a similar field.
• Experience working and conducting research in a controlled environment agriculture (CEA; greenhouse and/or indoor farm) and/or a field setting.
• Working knowledge of statistics.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Cover Letter 
Resume

Special Instructions

With questions please contact:

Dr. Roberto Lopez
Department of Horticulture
1066 Bogue St. A288 PSSB
East Lansing, MI 48824
email: rglopez@msu.edu

Dr. Josh Vander Weide
Department of Horticulture
1066 Bogue St. A338-B PSSB
East Lansing, MI 48824
email: jvander@msu.edu

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off date position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

hrt.msu.edu

Summary of Physical Demands

Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs periodically as well as occasionally work in a hot field environment during summer months.  

Bidding eligibility ends April 7, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.