Research Technician I - Duguma Lab

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center seeks a motivated and organized Research Technician I to support crop improvement research involving teff, cowpea, common bean, and other crops. The successful candidate will be responsible for plant cultivation, experimental maintenance, phenotyping, and seed processing, in greenhouse and growth chamber environments.

Responsibilities:

• Plant, maintain, and monitor research crops in greenhouses and growth chambers.
• Perform routine plant care, including watering, staking, labeling, and monitoring plant health.
• Conduct harvesting, threshing, seed cleaning, packaging, and inventory management.
• Collect, record, and organize plant growth, phenotyping, and yield data.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and coordinate plant care activities with greenhouse staff.
• Assist with other laboratory and research activities as needed.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Experience in plant handling or cultivation or demonstrated ability and willingness to learn.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain accurate records.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel or other data management tools.

• Live the Danforth Center values: Collaboration, Diversity & Inclusion, Innovation, Integrity & Respect, Environmental Sustainability, and Stewardship 

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Associate degree with bachelor’s degree preferred in plant science, horticulture, agriculture, biology, or a related field.
• 2 to 3 years experience with greenhouse, growth chamber operations, seed processing, or plant phenotyping.

Submission Instructions:

• Please include a 1–2-page cover letter describing academic background, research experience, research interest, and career goals
• CV
• Contact information for 3 professional references