(This is a grant-funded, non-tenure track position through 12/31/26).
Work Location: LSU AgCenter Reproductive Biology Center. 5995 LSU Ag Road St. Gabriel, LA 70776.
Position Description: A Research Associate position is available in the Sugarcane Breeding and Quantitative Genetics (SBQG) Lab under Dr. Brayden Blanchard from January 6, 2025 to December 31, 2026. Responsibilities will include aiding with regular operations of the LSU AgCenter sugarcane breeding program as well as conducting complementary research for the program in the areas of high-throughput phenotyping and multi-omics breeding strategies. This candidate will aid sugarcane breeders and scientists in data acquisition and selection for breeding pipelines and independent studies. Specific duties will include, but are not limited to, planting, harvesting, processing harvested samples in the sugarcane laboratory, data collection and entry, data analysis and reporting, and operation of laboratory equipment. Heavy emphasis will be placed on applications of precision agriculture and sensing technologies to assess high-throughput phenotyping technologies in the selection of superior sugarcane genotypes. These applications can include the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, satellite imagery, multi- and hyperspectral imagery, near-infrared sensors and many other sensor-based technologies along with necessary prediction modeling techniques to gain valuable insights for selection.
Qualification Requirements: The position requires an B.S. in agronomy, precision agriculture, ag-engineering, plant breeding, soil science, plant pathology, plant science, applied statistics, or a closely related field. M.S is preferred. Background and understanding of statistical principles and applications of prediction modeling are preferred along with necessary coding and data science experience. Special consideration will be reserved for candidates with certifications and expertise in UAV imaging and image processing. Knowledge and skills in time management, organization, personnel supervision, and data management are essential. Farming and/or field crop experience in sugarcane is desirable. The successful candidate must have acceptable written and oral communication skills.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options, including 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 22, 2024, or until a suitable candidate is
identified.
Application Procedure: Must apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching cover letter, resume, university transcripts, and contact information for two personal references. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching recommendation letters online, they may be sent directly to:
Dr. Brayden Blanchard
LSU AgCenter
Reproductive Biology Center
5995 LSU Ag Road
St. Gabriel, LA 70776
E-mail: bablanchard@agcenter.lsu.edu
Web Site: 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.
