PAY GRADE: 29E

Context of Job:

The University of Delaware Carvel Research and Education Center serves as the experiment station and county Extension office for southern Delaware in Sussex County. This facility provides the setting for applied research in many areas coupled with the dissemination of these results and additional information to Sussex County residents as well as to the state and region.

The University of Delaware Extension Vegetable and Fruit Program conducts applied research and provides Extension support to Delaware’s vegetable and fruit growers. This position will support research projects related to vegetable breeding and genetics, vegetable and berry production practices and variety evaluation. The Research Associate will work under the supervision of the Assistant Professor-Extension Vegetable and Fruit Specialist.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with establishment, maintenance and data collection for applied vegetable and fruit research plots.
• Manage greenhouse and field production of lima bean breeding lines and experimental populations.
• Manage research greenhouse irrigation, pests and diseases.
• Supervise seasonal employees.
• Organize trial seed acquisition, inventory, and distribution.
• Responsible for complying with university policies, procedures, and best practices regarding protecting data and following UD data governance rules.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in an agricultural field, or Associate’s degree in an agriculture field and two years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must have or obtain Delaware Pesticide Applicator Certification.
• Experience with crop production in a field or greenhouse environment.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel, or equivalent programs.

Special Requirements:

• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able and willing to work outdoors during the summer months.
• Some evening and weekend work will be required.