Research Technician - Horticultural Science

Since 1901, the faculty, staff and students of the Department of Horticultural Science have been providing innovative teaching, research, and outreach to the citizens of North Carolina, the nation, and the world. Our research and extension programs are recognized worldwide for their contributions to applied horticultural production and to discovery science. We generate and extend knowledge about fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, and landscape design for the purpose of increasing food security and food safety, sustaining the environment, enhancing economic vitality, and improving the quality of life for individuals and their communities.

Dr. Iglesias lab together with Dr. Hernandez lab have been awarded a Gates Foundation Grant to accelerate yam (Diosocorea) breeding through flowering induction, flowering sex proportion control, and tuber dormancy control, in collaboration with the Institute of International Tropical Agriculture in Nigeria.

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The Research Technician plays a key role in advancing yam research by coordinating and overseeing all field and greenhouse operations that support active research projects. This position serves as the primary technical resource for yam propagation, including vine cuttings and tuber sets, tuber storage and preservation, controlled crossing, seed harvest, phenotyping, and treatment applications in accordance with established research protocols.

Working closely with faculty and research staff, the Research Technician translates research plans into efficient, well-organized operations, ensuring experiments are conducted accurately, safely, and consistently. The role provides hands-on technical supervision of daily activities, maintains detailed research records, and applies established and emerging tools to improve research efficiency and data quality.

Success in this position requires strong collaboration, clear communication, and the ability to troubleshoot routine technical challenges. The Research Technician contributes to a positive, safety-focused research environment while supporting the team's shared goal of producing high-quality, reliable research outcomes.

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

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Applicant required documents: Cover Letter, Resume, Contact Information for at least three Professional References.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

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