Job Information
Washington State University Breeding Assistant in West Wenatchee, Washington
Breeding Assistant
Online applications must be received before 12:00am on:
August 29, 2024
If a date is not listed above, review the Applicant Instructions below for more details.
Available Title(s):
1457-YN_ADMINPRO - Research Intern
Business Title:
Breeding Assistant
Employee Type:
Admin. Professional (+) (Fixed Term)
Position Details:
Summary of Duties:
The Research Intern will be responsible for performing work in support of scientific research in the apple and pear breeding program. They will perform complex investigative procedures, particularly greenhouse experiments (but also orchard and fruit lab), adapting procedures as necessary to accomplish research goals. They will run research protocols and collect data, process and perform basic analysis of data. They will assist in preparing manuscripts for journals and presentations for conferences. Performing general maintenance on field or laboratory equipment is also an expectation for this position. The incumbent will work directly with the Project PI, colleagues and stakeholders to troubleshoot problems.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
85% | Research
• Manage greenhouse facility for all breeding program needs.
• Maintain hoophouse seedlings as needed.
• Conduct experiments in the greenhouse, orchard and laboratory per the protocols provided.
• Set up, calibrate (if required), and operate necessary equipment and instrumentation.
• Work with research scientists and graduate students for the successful completion of experiments.
• Prepare materials needed for the experiments, as per the protocols.
• Collect samples, label appropriately and store them properly.
• Organize and track fruit cold storage for all breeding program samples.
• Plan materials necessary for running trials and foresee research group needs in advance
5% | Communicate Results
• Input the data collected into excel spreadsheets.
• Assist in development of manuscripts and presentations
• Document all the tests conducted in detail.
• Communicate the results to the supervisor both in writing and verbally.
5% | Supervision
• Responsible for the supervision of other project employees
5% | Other Duties as Assigned
• Miscellaneous duties related to administrative paperwork such as internal expenses reconciliation and invoicing
Physical Requirements:
• Work is performed primarily in orchards, laboratory, and office settings, and travel off-site will be required.
• The incumbent must be able to drive across the state to reach the experimental orchards in provided state vehicles (SUV, pickup trucks, sedan cars, etc.).
• Ability to navigate uneven surfaces (i.e., yards, unpaved walkways or driveways) and access various types of buildings (i.e., stairs or narrow corridors).
• Ability to use a 10 ft- ladder.
• Speech, visual, and hearing abilities that are sufficient to read and view written materials and effectively communicate and interact with WSU staff and the public---both in person and over the phone.
• Ability to bend, twist, stoop, carry and lift work materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
Work Conditions:
• Work is performed in a laboratory, office and/or orcha