Fall 2017 Ph.D. Graduate Assistantship in Citrus Horticulture - A doctoral assistantship position is available at University of Florida/IFAS, Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC) in Fort Pierce, FL. The IRREC is located in the grapefruit premier area in Florida and provides a unique opportunity to combine scientific research with the industry demands. The research will integrate irrigation and fertilization management using sensor-based automation and low-cost open-source microcontrollers and cultural practices to extend plant health under HLB. The research can target one or more production systems: citrus nursery seedlings production using subirrigation, Citrus Undercover Production Systems, nutritional cocktail studies in grapefruit and sweet orange, and Open Hydroponics System.
The candidate will work in the laboratory, greenhouse and field. Field and greenhouse work will involve periods of working under uncomfortable conditions.The candidate is expected to have a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in horticulture, agronomy, biological and agricultural engineering or a related discipline, integrating both horticulture and applied engineering. The position requires strong interpersonal skills for a team-oriented horticulture program. Valued skills include excellent written and verbal communication and creative thinking. Knowledge of basic electronics and computer programming is a plus.
Interested candidates for this position are encouraged to send applications to the Horticultural Sciences Department (http://hos.ufl.edu/graduate-programs/admissions) including a cover letter (maximum 2 pages with statement of intent), curriculum vitae, copy of transcripts, GRE scores (TOEFL/IELTS scores for international applicants), and the names of three referees. Please do not hesitate in contacting Dr. Rhuanito Soranz Ferrarezi (rferrarezi@ufl.edu) if you have any questions.