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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Greenhouse Researcher

💰 $60,000 - $95,000

ResearchScienceAgricultureHorticultureBiotechnology

🎯 Role Definition

The Greenhouse Researcher is a cornerstone of our Research & Development efforts, serving as the primary scientific expert for controlled environment agriculture (CEA). This role is fundamentally about inquiry and discovery—asking critical questions about plant physiology, genetics, and environmental interactions, and then designing and executing rigorous experiments to find the answers. They are the bridge between theoretical plant science and practical application, generating the critical data that informs crop improvement, cultivation strategies, and the development of new agricultural technologies. Ultimately, the Greenhouse Researcher's work directly contributes to enhancing crop yield, quality, and resilience, ensuring the organization remains at the forefront of horticultural innovation.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Research Assistant / Associate
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Recent Graduate (M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant science)

Advancement To:

  • Senior Greenhouse Researcher
  • Research Scientist / R&D Scientist
  • Greenhouse Manager or Director of Controlled Environments

Lateral Moves:

  • Plant Breeder
  • Field Trial Agronomist
  • Quality Assurance Scientist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Design, implement, and manage comprehensive, scientifically rigorous research trials in greenhouse and growth chamber environments to evaluate new crop varieties, treatments, and growing protocols.
  • Take ownership of the entire experimental lifecycle, from initial hypothesis generation and protocol development to data collection, analysis, and final reporting.
  • Meticulously collect, record, and manage extensive datasets on plant metrics, including growth rates, developmental stages, yield, morphological characteristics, and physiological responses.
  • Operate, monitor, and program sophisticated greenhouse environmental control systems (e.g., Priva, Argus) to maintain precise conditions for temperature, humidity, CO2, and lighting.
  • Conduct integrated pest and disease management (IPM), including scouting, diagnosis, and the application of biological and chemical controls in adherence to safety protocols.
  • Perform a wide range of horticultural tasks, including seeding, transplanting, irrigation, fertigation, pruning, and harvesting, ensuring consistency and accuracy across all experimental units.
  • Prepare complex nutrient stock solutions and manage fertigation systems, adjusting recipes based on crop stage, environmental conditions, and experimental requirements.
  • Utilize and maintain a variety of scientific instruments for plant analysis, such as chlorophyll meters (SPAD), fluorometers, gas exchange systems, and spectrophotometers.
  • Analyze experimental data using statistical software (e.g., R, JMP, SAS) to draw valid scientific conclusions and identify significant trends and outcomes.
  • Develop and author detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all research activities to ensure repeatability, consistency, and safety.
  • Scout for and identify plant physiological disorders, nutrient deficiencies, diseases, and insect pests, documenting findings and implementing corrective actions.
  • Manage the propagation of plant material, which may include clonal propagation, grafting, and conducting controlled pollination and genetic crosses.
  • Calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform routine maintenance on sensors, data loggers, and other research equipment to ensure data accuracy and integrity.
  • Prepare clear and concise technical reports, research summaries, data visualizations, and presentations for internal stakeholders and leadership teams.
  • Stay current with the latest scientific literature, industry trends, and technological advancements in plant science, horticulture, and controlled environment agriculture.
  • Responsible for maintaining accurate inventory records for seeds, chemicals, fertilizers, growing media, and other essential greenhouse supplies.
  • Ensure all greenhouse operations and research activities are conducted in strict compliance with company policies and external regulatory standards (e.g., WPS, EHS).
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including breeders, molecular biologists, and data scientists, to align research objectives and share critical findings.
  • Perform tissue sampling and coordinate with internal or external labs for advanced analytical procedures, such as nutrient analysis, genetic testing, or metabolite profiling.
  • Oversee the day-to-day care and health of all plant material within designated research zones, ensuring optimal growing conditions are met.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the training and mentorship of junior research assistants, interns, and technicians on protocols and equipment.
  • Contribute to the drafting of scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication, patent applications, and technical white papers.
  • Support greenhouse facility management by providing recommendations for equipment upgrades, new technology adoption, and process improvements.
  • Participate actively in cross-functional project teams, providing expert input on plant science, experimental design, and operational feasibility.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Experimental Design (DOE): Proficient in designing robust, statistically valid experiments (e.g., randomized complete block, split-plot designs).
  • Statistical Analysis Software: Hands-on experience with R, JMP, SAS, or similar platforms for data analysis and visualization.
  • Environmental Control Systems: Ability to program and manage automated greenhouse control systems like Priva, Argus, or Hoogendoorn.
  • Plant Physiology Measurement: Skilled in using scientific instruments like LI-COR gas exchange systems, SPAD meters, and fluorometers.
  • Hydroponics & Soilless Culture: In-depth knowledge of various soilless production systems (e.g., NFT, deep water culture, drip irrigation) and nutrient management.
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Strong background in identifying common greenhouse pests and diseases and implementing IPM strategies.
  • Data Management: Meticulous approach to data collection, organization, and management using tools like Excel, LIMS, or custom databases.
  • Plant Propagation Techniques: Experience with propagation from seed, cuttings, and tissue culture, as well as controlled pollination.
  • Horticultural Science: Deep understanding of plant science fundamentals, including botany, plant nutrition, and soil/media science.
  • Laboratory Skills: Competency in basic lab procedures, including solution preparation, sample processing, and use of analytical equipment.

Soft Skills

  • Meticulous Attention to Detail: A critical eye for precision in measurements, data recording, and execution of experimental protocols.
  • Analytical & Problem-Solving Mindset: Ability to troubleshoot experimental anomalies, equipment issues, and unexpected plant responses with a systematic approach.
  • Effective Communication: Can clearly articulate complex scientific concepts, experimental results, and project updates both verbally and in writing.
  • Independent & Proactive: A self-starter who can manage multiple projects simultaneously with minimal supervision and take initiative to drive research forward.
  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Works constructively with colleagues from diverse scientific and operational backgrounds to achieve shared goals.
  • Adaptability: Thrives in a dynamic research environment where priorities and experimental plans may evolve based on new findings.
  • Observational Skills: A keen ability to notice subtle changes in plant health, growth patterns, and environmental conditions.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Preferred Education:

  • Master of Science (M.S.) or Doctorate (Ph.D.)

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Plant Science
  • Horticulture
  • Agronomy
  • Biology (with a concentration in Botany or Plant Physiology)
  • Agricultural Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-7 years of hands-on research experience in a greenhouse, growth chamber, or other controlled environment setting.

Preferred:

  • Experience in a commercial R&D environment is highly valued. Direct experience with high-throughput phenotyping, specific crop categories (e.g., leafy greens, vine crops, floriculture), and advanced irrigation/fertigation strategies is a significant plus.
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