FWS Spring 2026, Undergraduate Research Assistant in Horiculture

Job Title
FWS Spring 2026, Undergraduate Research Assistant in Horiculture

Requisition Number
DU14354

Department Name
1B531:Federal Work Study

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Salary Range
$12.00 - $13.75 / hour

Type of Position
Student

Position Time Status
Part-Time

Required Education

Must be a currently enrolled undergraduate student in a related field (e.g., Horticulture, Plant & Soil Sciences, Biology, Agriculture, Biotechnology, Neuroscience, Medicine).

Required Related Experience

Interest in and/or prior experience working with plants, horticultural crops, or
biological sciences.

Required License/Registration/Certification

n/a

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift and carry plant materials (up to ~20 lbs).

Shift

Work will be scheduled during business hours; Weekdays 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Job Summary

Responsibilities:

• Assist in the collection and preparation of plant tissues for DNA extraction and metabolite quantification.
• Perform DNA extractions and support genotyping and molecular characterization experiments.
• Perform metabolite quantification and profiling of the fruit tissues.
• Support data entry, organization, and preliminary analysis of experimental data.
• Contribute to laboratory and field research activities under the supervision of project staff.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records. Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, sample preparation) is a plus. Interest in metabolomics, genetics, genomics, and crop improvement. Willingness to learn new skills and work as part of a collaborative research team. Basic computer skills for data entry and organization.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No

Preferred Education/Experience

• Ability to work in both laboratory and greenhouse environments. Ability to lift and carry plant materials (up to ~20 lbs).
• Standing, walking, and bending for extended periods during lab and greenhouse work may be required.
• Horticulture majors preferred.

Deadline to Apply
05/15/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.