M.S. or Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship: The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Delaware (UD) is offering fully funded M.S. or Ph.D. student positions in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) or Space Crop Production. The positions, starting in June—September 2024, involve cutting-edge research in indoor vertical farming, greenhouse crop production, and space crop optimization, funded by agencies including USDA and NASA.
Position Details
Designation | Research Area | Location | Eligibility/Qualification |
---|---|---|---|
M.S. or Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistant | Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) or Space Crop Production | University of Delaware (UD), Newark, Delaware | B.S. or M.S. degree in a related field before the desired start date. GRE not required. TOEFL or IELTS required for international applicants. Previous research experience in CEA, floriculture, horticultural LED lighting, plant physiology, and plant nutrition. Ability to move heavy objects, work collaboratively, and flexibility with weekend/holiday work. Exceptional work ethic, drive, commitment to research, attention to detail, problem-solving, receptiveness to feedback, time management, and strong communication skills. |
Job Description
Successful candidates will engage in research projects addressing:
- Interaction of environmental and nutrient solution factors in influencing growth and quality of indoor and greenhouse food and flower crops.
- Lighting optimization for space crop production to enhance productivity and nutritional quality of leafy greens.
Additionally, assistantship duties beyond research are expected. The University of Delaware, a top-ranked national RI Land Grant, Sea Grant, and Space Grant institution, provides state-of-the-art facilities at the Delaware Indoor Ag Lab (DIAL) featuring tunable LED lighting systems and climate-control growth chambers.
Accepted M.S. and Ph.D. students will receive a competitive stipend, a tuition scholarship, and subsidized health insurance.
Requirements
- A B.S. or M.S. degree in a related field before the desired start date. An M.S. degree in a related field is required for Ph.D. applicants.
- GRE is not required. TOEFL or IELTS is required for international applicants.
- Previous research experience and a proven track record in at least one of the specified areas.
- Ability to move heavy objects (up to 50 lbs.), work collaboratively, and flexibility with weekend/holiday work.
- Exceptional work ethic, drive, commitment to research, attention to detail, problem-solving, receptiveness to feedback, time management, and strong communication skills.
How to Apply
Please email the following to indooraglab@gmail.com before formally applying:
- Introductory statement of why you are the best fit (technical and personal traits).
- CV.
Email by 05 January 2024, for priority funding consideration. Positions are open until filled. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Disclaimer
This job post is based on information from a reliable source. For further details and to ensure accuracy, please refer to the official University of Delaware website: UD Official Site.