Work Location: Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Sweet Potato Research Station, Chase, Louisiana.
Position Description: The incumbent will provide support to the sweetpotato Foundation Seed and Breeding programs, working with and through project leaders conducting research and extension programs in sweetpotato. Research activities and program support will primarily occur at the Sweet Potato Research Station, as well as several other LSU AgCenter research stations and commercial sweetpotato on-farm locations across Louisiana. The successful candidate will be expected to work with faculty to plan, coordinate, implement, and assist with data collection in greenhouse and field trials. Routine duties will include plot establishment and maintenance, data collection and organization. In addition, the successful candidate will be required to operate and maintain various types of research equipment associated with the program and use computer software for data management. Other responsibilities will include working with the station coordinator and sweetpotato breeder to assist in coordinating logistical processes related to the sweetpotato foundation seed program (shipping and distribution of seed and plant material). During busy times of year, it may be necessary to work beyond the normal 8-hour workday. Seasonal travel to off-site locations in Louisiana and surrounding states will be necessary on occasion.
Qualification Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in plant sciences, agronomy, horticulture, plant pest management, other agricultural curriculums or related discipline from an accredited college or university. Other degree may be accepted with experience or education related to job duties. Computer skills required. Experience with field research or plant breeding is desirable. A willingness to work in a team environment and exceptional verbal and written communication skills are preferred.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: November 1, 2024 or until an acceptable applicant is found.
Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching cover letter, resume, official transcripts, and contact information for three references. Paper, faxed or emailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the recommendation letters online, they may be sent directly to:
Tara Smith, PhD
Executive Associate Vice President
Research Coordinator Sweet Potato Research Station
Email: tsmith@agcenter.lsu.edu
Telephone: 318-473-6520
Website: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer.
