Field and Lab Research Technician

Overview

Are you looking for both spring semester and summer work on the USU Logan Campus? Would you like a job that pays well and provides both field and lab research experience? Do you need some flexibility rather than having a strict schedule? My lab carries out applied studies in plant science, with a focus on forages – plants that are fed to or grazed by cattle. Summer work includes collecting field data and maintaining small plot studies (mornings) and analyzing plant material in the lab (afternoons). Our field, greenhouse and lab studies have the goal of improving the sustainability and security of food production in Utah while improving the profitability of Utah cattle and forage producers. This work is supported in part by a $6.8 million grant from the USDA – watch the Smart Foodscapes 4-minute video at https://www.usu.edu/smart-foodscapes/ to learn more about one of the research projects you would be working on. This is an on-campus ACA variable position, and US work authorization is required.

Responsibilities

• Plant samples need to be collected, dried and milled, so this position will include exposure to a variety of plants as well as ground plant material, a potential allergen.
• There will also be some weeding, and possibly herbicide application (Roundup).
• Laboratory work includes weighing and carrying out biochemical analyses of plant material to understand their nutritional composition and to measure their secondary metabolites.
• All work requires close attention to detail and a willingness to carefully follow established analytical protocols; training on all protocols will be provided!

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Skills in biology, chemistry or biochemistry are needed.
• Valid driver’s license to perform essential job responsibilities, such as driving university vehicles and transporting materials.
• Ability to commute to both North Logan and Clarkston locations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Background in agriculural work or studies.

Knoweldege, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to maintain honesty and integrity at all times.

Required Documents

Along with the online application, please attach:

 

1. Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”

 

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Advertised Salary

$15.00 Per Hour

ADA

The environment and physical requirements may change depending on the specific function of the work each department performs. Incumbents may be in both indoor and outdoor environments. Indoors, in an office space, event space, or public space are protected from weather conditions, but not necessarily from temperature changes. Incumbents may nearly continuously sit and often use repetitive hand motion (such as typing).

 

Outdoors, incumbents may not be protected from weather conditions and may be exposed to extreme heat and extreme cold. Additionally, indoor or outdoor work environments may include being confined or in narrow spaces for periods of time. The incumbent may also be exposed to loud noises or vibrations from equipment, and conditions that may affect the respiratory system, such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, and poor ventilation. Bending, crawling, and crouching may be required. Incumbents may be required to lift, push, and/or pull objects up to 50 pounds and be required to walk and/or stand for long periods of time.

University Highlights

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university, with a strong commitment to excellence, access, and inclusion, empowering people to lead successful lives of involvement, innovation, and impact. Utah State provides high-quality education to 27,500-plus students locations throughout the state, including at three residential campuses, eight statewide campuses, and 23 education centers. USU Online educates students from all 50 states and 55 countries. For over 25 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns in all of Utah’s counties. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge through research and scholarly activities, providing a high-quality undergraduate and graduate education at an affordable price.

 

Utah State is committed to cultivating a community of inclusive excellence where all perspectives, values, cultures, and identities are acknowledged, welcomed, and valued. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be succe