About this role
NSF SENIOR RESEARCHER
Division: CAS Department: Biology Experience: Advanced
Job Code: NA Supervisor/Reports To: Byron Meade
Start Date: 8/24/2026
Support faculty‑led biological research in hydroponic agriculture, mycology, and molecular biology. This senior student research role involves overseeing a small team of associate student researchers while advancing project aims through hands‑on lab work, analysis, and dissemination.
Responsibilities and Career Competencies:
• Assist with day‑to‑day research activities such as cleaning the lab, operating the autoclave, sterile benchtop work, and hydroponic maintenance – C, TW, P, CSD, CT, L, T
• Oversee other associate student researchers in their day‑to‑day tasks – C, TW, P, CSD, CT, L, T
• Maintain hydroponic plants and prepare roots for testing – C, T, P, CSD
• Assist with literature reviews for related topics – C, TW, L
• Prepare research documents and papers and help guide associate student researchers during the process – C, P, CSD, CTR, T, L
• Perform lab techniques such as PCR and DNA analysis – T, CSD, C, P
• Present findings in oral and/or written form – C, T, P, CTR, CT, L
Communication (C), Teamwork (TW), Professionalism (P), Career & Self‑Development (CSD), Critical Thinking (CT), Community Transformation (CTR), Leadership (L), Technology (T)
Education Requirements: Must be a current UPIKE student in good standing.
Preferred Skills: Word; Excel; PowerPoint; attention to detail; strong active listening abilities; public speaking; written & verbal communication; willingness to learn new things.
Work Schedule: Hours vary depending on workload.
Work Conditions: Heat; Cold; Light Intensity; Wetness; Humidity.
Physical Demands: Keyboarding; Reaching/Handling; Stooping/Kneeling; Crouching/Crawling; Pushing up to 50 lbs.; Pulling up to 50 lbs.; Lifting up to 50 lbs.; Carrying up to 50 lbs.
Number of Positions: 2
Pay Rate: $12.50/hour
Location: ARM 110
To Apply: Submit application and resume through the UPIKE campus employment system.
Application Notes: Resumes and applications will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students. $12.50/hour