Research Assistant I

The Wheat Breeding and Genetics program at Michigan State University is seeking a highly motivated and organized Research Assistant I to work as a member of the wheat variety development and research program. This position will support Wheat Research and Variety Development efforts through laboratory, greenhouse, and field-based research. This position’s primary role will be as the Greenhouse and Laboratory Manager to serve as the primary coordinator of greenhouse and laboratory operations. Responsibilities will include conducting, coordinating, and implementing laboratory and greenhouse experiments for the wheat breeding program and graduate student studies. Field activities may include assisting with planting and harvest of research plots, data collection, collection of field samples for various studies, etc. Work may involve operation of research tractors, planters and combines. Assisting in oversight of hourly student employees will be required.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Crop and Soil Sciences, Horticulture, Genetics, Genomics or a related field; one to three years of progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in crop/plant science laboratory and greenhouse research; proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Michigan Commercial Pesticide license is required within six months of hire.

• Experience working with plant pathogens, research methodologies, and laboratory management 
• Two to three years of experience in crop/plant science laboratory and greenhouse research. 
• Experience in field, greenhouse and laboratory research techniques 
• Experience with operation of field research equipment (threshers, combines, planters, etc.
• Excellent organizational and communications skills – including attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as a collaborative team member
• Flexibility to work extended days and weekends during wheat harvest and planting seasons

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.

Cover Letter

CV/Resume

Name and contact information for Three(3) professional references

Inquiries regarding position can be directed to Andy Noble (nobleam1@msu.edu)

STANDARD 8-5

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

https://www.canr.msu.edu/psm/

Lifting up to 25lb of the following from floor/waist height (15-30 min)

•  GH pots from bench to another bench
•   fertilizer/potting soil bags
•   boxes of seed from table to cart

Carrying up to 25lb of the following a distance of 20 feet (30 min)

•  GH pots from bench to another bench
•  Picking up fertilizer/potting soil bags
•  Boxes of seed from table to cart

Pushing/Pulling a cart with a load weight of up to 50lbs a maximum distance of 1000 feet over surfaces that may be flat, smooth, or have some bumps(30 Min)

Drive a university vehicle that does not require a commercial driver’s license but does require medical certification:

• VEHICLES:
• Have a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds.
• COMBINATION VEHICLES:
• Having a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds.

 Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.

Advertised: Nov 4, 2026 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Dec 3, 2026 Eastern Standard Time

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