Job Details

Research Specialist, Pomology

Position Number: 7216696
Location: Moscow, ID
Position Type: Agriculture - Horticulture & Landscape Architecture

Research Specialist, Pomology

Posting Number: SP005306P
Division/College: College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
Department: Plant Sciences
Location: Parma

Posting Context Statement:

The Pomology Program at U of I, based at the Parma Research and Extension Center, conducts research and extension to support fruit production systems across Idaho. This position offers hands-on experience with apples, cherries, almonds, and grapes through field, greenhouse, and laboratory work. The selected candidate will contribute to horticultural research, fruit tree management, and plant physiology projects that directly support growers in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. Opportunities for extension and outreach are available within a collaborative and supportive research environment.

Position Overview:

Performs research activities and analysis, recording observations and measurements, and reports results. Participates in analyzing and preparing results for publication. Works under general supervision.

Duties may include:

Prepare standard solutions for calibration and analyses
Interpret test results and comparing with determined standards and limits
Collect laboratory or field data
Conduct research and analysis of scientific data
Participate in research design discussions
Perform literature reviews
Prepare reports
Compare data and historical records for trend verification
Develop reference files, comparison charts, and graphs on research data
Assist with site inspections and field oversight
Have little or no supervisory responsibilities
Other duties as assigned

Required Experience:

Following pre-established procedures or protocols
Collecting and reviewing scientific data
Keeping complete and accurate records
Working in a team environment

Required Education:

Bachelors Degree in in Horticulture, Plant Sciences, Agronomy, Agriculture, Plant Pathology, Agricultural Engineering, or a field related to the domain of the position

Required Other:

Must possess or be able to obtain a drivers license within the first month of hiring, and ability to successfully pass a drivers record check
Must possess a pesticide applicator license or able to obtain one in 6 months
Ability to work nonstandard business hours on occasion

Additional Preferred:

Two years of post-bachelors research experience or masters degree in horticulture, plant breeding, agronomy, plant pathology, agricultural engineering, or a closely related field
Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., SAS, R, or similar)
Experience measuring fruit quality parameters, including sugar content, acidity, antioxidants, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and related metrics
Experience operating laboratory instruments such as spectrophotometers and microplate readers
Experience using plant physiology equipment (e.g., LI-6400 or LI-6800 gas exchange systems, fluorometers, pressure chambers)
Demonstrated effective communication skills (written and verbal)
Demonstrated technical and scientific writing skills
Experience developing and delivering scientific presentations

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

May be required to work under adverse environmental conditions (dusty, hot, or cold outdoor conditions)
Must be able to lift, carry and/or otherwise move objects weighing up to 50 lbs

Degree Requirement:
Listed degree qualification is required at time of hire
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employee Category: Classified
Pay Range: Commensurate with Experience
Type of Appointment: Fiscal Year
FTE:

1.0

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Funding: This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.
A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy: Uncertain
Posting Date: 06/05/2026
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled: Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants:

Applications received by June 19, 2026, will receive first consideration.

Along with your resume, please submit a cover letter, unofficial transcripts. The following items are optional: Work Sample and Statement of Research

If you would like to receive a full position description, please email Heather at Hbiersner@uidaho.edu and request that one be sent to you.

There is no visa support, but the position is also open to international applicants able to come under a J1 Visa, or under an OPT/STEM OPT program.

Applicant Resources: https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources
Background Check Statement:

Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.

To apply, visit https://uidaho.peopleadmin.com/postings/51745

The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.