Research Professional

Job Description

Job Description

FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY (FVSU), a state and land-grant institution of the University System of Georgia, invites applications for the position of Research Professional.

Fort Valley State University, the only 1890 land-grant university in Georgia, is a comprehensive institution that provides an education to over 2,800 students including graduate students. The university is located in the town of Fort Valley in Peach County, the original site of the state's peach industry. Its 1,365-acre (5.52 km2) campus is Georgia's second-largest public university in area.

Fort Valley State University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution and does not discriminate against applicants, students, or employees on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or marital or veteran status.

JOB SUMMARY:

We are looking for a highly qualified Research professional with advanced knowledge in animal parasitology, stress physiology, nutrition, microbiology, and meat quality. The role involves designing and conducting research studies, overseeing laboratory operations, publishing in peer [1] reviewed journals, and utilizing advanced laboratory and molecular techniques. This position supports our mission to enhance animal health, productivity, and product quality through innovative and applied research.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct advanced research on animal stress physiology, nutrition, growth, reproduction, parasitology, and meat quality, integrating laboratory and field-based approaches.
• Design, implement, and evaluate experiments involving small ruminants (e.g., goats), including blood, meat, and rumen sampling, and analyze physiological and biochemical responses.
• Utilize advanced molecular and laboratory techniques, including ELISA, mRNA extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, western blotting, calorimetry, hematology, and blood chemistry analysis. Maintain and calibrate a wide range of laboratory instruments (spectrophotometers, plate readers, hematology analyzers, biochemistry analyzers, calorimeters, etc.).
• Manage animal herds during research, including monitoring behavior, welfare, stress responses, and productivity.
• Supervise and train students and research staff in laboratory techniques, experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
• Use of machine learning based image classification to identify different Lespedeza species, classify FAMACHA scores for anemia detection, and detect mastitis in animals.
• Analyze data using statistical and bioinformatics tools (Microsoft Office 365 tools, SAS), prepare detailed reports, and contribute to scientific publications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, present research findings at professional conferences.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master's degree in animal science, veterinary science, or related field.
• At least 3 years of research experience in animal science, stress physiology, nutrition, parasitology, or related areas.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• DVM or Equivalent degree.
• Research experience of at least five years in Animal Sciences or related degree.
• Hands-on experience with large-scale animal research projects and conference presentations.
• Had prior experience working with small ruminants.
• Knowledge of bioinformatics and statistical analysis for large datasets (e.g., metabolomics, RNA-seq).

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Expertise in animal physiology, nutrition, parasitology, microbiology, and meat science.
• Proficiency with molecular biology and analytical techniques (PCR, ELISA, RNA-seq, western blotting, calorimetry, metabolomics).
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Experience managing and researching small ruminants, including blood and tissue sampling.
• Ability to supervise and mentor students and contribute to collaborative research teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; proven ability to present findings at scientific meetings.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Research laboratories, animal research facilities, and field environments.
• Everyday activities include responding to emails, phone calls, and team discussions in addition to the research duties.
• Requires handling animals, biological samples, and specialized lab equipment.
• May involve extended hours during data collection, animal management, and field experiments

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_condu…

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

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