Michigan State University College of Engineering · 10 hours ago
Research Assistant I
East Lansing, MI
Full-time
Onsite
Entry Level
1+ years expMichigan State University College of Engineering is seeking a highly motivated individual to investigate turfgrass diseases. The role involves conducting field and laboratory research, analyzing data, and preparing reports while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and supervising undergraduate students.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Assist with field research and laboratory studies to meet research goals by designing and conducting experiments, collecting, recording, and analyzing data, and preparing reports to contribute to overall research and Extension goals
Operate, calibrate, and maintain scientific instruments for both laboratory and field settings
Culture propagation, maintenance, and disposal
Prepare solutions and media
Handle, weigh, and apply pesticides
Maintain turfgrass field plots using appropriate tools and equipment
Handle, use, store, and dispose of hazardous materials including pesticides and other hazardous waste
Travel within the state of Michigan to conduct off-site trials
Oversee compliance to laboratory safety regulations and procedures and order materials, supplies, and equipment
Assist in identifying turfgrass diseases and isolating pathogens
Conduct statistical data analysis, technical report writing, and effective communication with MSU extension educators and collaborators within and outside of the state
Maintain research trials and data collection in greenhouse activities
Make extension presentations at field days
Supervise undergraduate students
Qualification
Required
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Plant Pathology, Turfgrass Science 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 an area related to research being performed
Valid Vehicle Operator License
Michigan commercial pesticide applicator license with category 3A endorsement or obtain within 1 month of hire
Knowledgeable and safe handling and operation of turf maintenance equipment
Ability to conduct statistical analysis with SAS, R, or Agriculture Research Manager (ARM)
Cover Letter (addressed to Dr. Ruying Wang Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University)
CV
Name and contact Information for Three (3) professional references
Preferred
Knowledge or experience in conducting turfgrass research
Proficiency with golf turf equipment
Experience with autonomous mowers and drone photography
Knowledge of turf pathogen diagnostics
Experience with website and database maintenance
Highly organized, self-motivated, and excellent time management skills
Company
Michigan State University College of Engineering
Our College of Engineering is among the founding disciplines at Michigan State University and among the three largest academic units.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase