Research Associate

Job Title Associate, Research - Horticulture Essential Job Functions Develop protocols and guidelines for the application of portable diagnosis tools for onsite pest identification. Conduct laboratory and applied research in collaboration with Extension that addresses state and local needs Maintain the materials generated by the project. Assist with the collection of data, evaluation, and reports. Assist with grant writing, and budgeting, and provide input in the development of educational programs. Prepare extension outreach materials like fact sheets, trifolds, brochures, etc. for disseminating information to the limited resources farmers. Mentor graduate/undergraduate students, lab technicians, and student workers Ability to work both independently and collaboratively Make presentations orally or on posters of applied research results at conferences or meetings. Work with clientele across a wide range of socio-economic classes Develop and maintain relationships with extension educators that lead to substantial applied research that directly benefits producers across the region. Must be willing to do farm visits and travel to state events as needed. Other related duties, as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Plant Science, Molecular Biology, Plant Pathology, or a closely related field. Master's degree in a closely related field with laboratory experience on molecular tools preferred. Hands-on experience in basic molecular techniques and fundamentals of plant pathology. Knowledge Skills and Abilities Knowledge of molecular biology principles and diagnostic techniques related to pest identification, including portable technologies such as MinION sequencer, mini-PCR, LAMP, RPA, and similar procedures. Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, research methodologies, data collection standards, and basic statistical analysis. Knowledge of agricultural systems, integrated pest management (IPM), and challenges impacting limited-resource farmers in Mississippi. Skill in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting portable diagnostic equipment in laboratory and field environments. Skill in collecting, organizing, analyzing, and reporting research data in compliance with grant requirements. Skill in preparing outreach and educational materials (e.g., presentations, fact sheets, demonstrations) for diverse audiences. Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively to farmers, producers, and community stakeholders. Ability to conduct research activities in laboratory settings, the ASU model farm, and various off-site locations across southwestern Mississippi. Ability to work collaboratively with the Principal Investigator, extension personnel, and community partners while managing multiple assignments and meeting project deadlines. EEO Statement Alcorn State University is expressly committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry age, religion or religious creed, disability or handicap, sex or gender identity and/or expressions, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Further, the University will not tolerate any instances of harassment/sexual harassment. This policy applies to all employees, regardless of position, consultants and applicants for employment. Additionally, it is the responsibility of all personas making employment decisions to adhere to this policy.