Research Assistant I

Assistance and oversight of research tree fruit orchards, plot maintenance, pruning and tree training, irrigation and measurements for specific projects (Federally funded and commodity commission funded), as well as conducting field, environmental growth chamber, greenhouse, and laboratory research.  Create and implement experimental designs, treatment imposition including application of plant growth regulators which requires acquisition and maintenance of a research spray license, routine plot maintenance, data collection, and analysis of research trials related to horticultural management and physiological studies of tree fruit, primarily apples, as well as cherries, pears and peaches. 

Participate in orchard trials at several MSU research centers as well as cooperative studies with commercial growers throughout Michigan’s tree fruit production regions.  Research will include fruit tree training systems, reproductive and environmental physiology, rootstock and cultivar evaluations, crop load management, orchard production efficiencies, cold hardiness assays, preparation of samples for molecular analyses, and fruit quality and maturity indices, including operation of an automated, imaging fruit sorting line.  Use multiple technologies including programmable freezer and growth chambers, operation of gas exchange systems for photosynthesis measurements, chlorophyll fluorescence, soil moisture and plant water potential measurement, microscopy and imaging software, and operation, maintenance and upkeep of a research sprayer.  Preparation of experimental treatments, preparation and application of plant growth regulator solutions, growth monitoring, nutrient and tissue sampling, irrigation, pruning, plant protection, harvest, and fruit quality analyses. 

Travel required up to 50% of time to MSU research centers, primarily the MSU-Clarksville Research Center in Clarksville, MI.  To a limited extent travel will also occur to the MSU-Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research and Extension Center in Traverse City, MI in addition to stakeholder, on-farm trial sites in Sparta, MI.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Horticulture 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 production practices in fruit orchards, high tunnel research and research trials in horticulture management.  Applicant must possess a valid Michigan driver's license at the time of hire.

Qualified candidates will possess a Master‘s Degree in Horticulture or a closely related field and one year of experience as a Research Assistant or any related position in orchard and horticulture research.  Must have one to three years of experience in research and production practices in fruit orchards, high tunnel research, and research trials in horticulture management and physiological studies.  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

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STANDARD 8-5

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Advertised: Oct 28, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Nov 26, 2026 Eastern Standard Time

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