Seed Analyst II

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Job Description:

The Iowa State University Seed Lab is currently seeking a Seed Analyst II. The lab, with a history dating back to the 1890s, has long been a leader in seed testing and education. Over the years, the lab has expanded its services and now offers over 50 types of tests on more than 300 species, including corn, soybean, cereals, grasses, flowers, vegetables, small-seeded legumes, and native species. This position is primarily based in the Germination lab, where typical tests include warm germination, cold tests, accelerated aging, tetrazolium, and seed moisture analysis. Seed Analysts at ISU Seed Lab are involved in the annual Seed Analyst Short Course and are encouraged to actively participate in seed organizations such as AOSA and SCST. The Seed Lab is an integral part of the internationally recognized Seed Science Center, known for its contributions to international training, seed conditioning, and research in seed pathology and physiology.

Under general supervision, the Seed Analyst II will utilize both standard and specialized testing procedures to assess the quality of seeds across various species, including agricultural, vegetable, flower, trees, and revegetation types.

The Seed Analyst II position at the Iowa State University Seed Lab offers a unique and exciting opportunity for individuals with a deep curiosity about the scientific aspects of seed analysis. Working at one of the largest public seed labs in the world, you will have the chance to test a wide variety of species, making every day different and engaging. The fast-paced and dynamic environment adds an element of excitement to the work, while the collaborative team atmosphere fosters creativity and shared learning. This role is ideal for someone who finds the intricate details of seed science both cool and fascinating, and who thrives in a setting where science meets practical application.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

Assists laboratory manager and Seed Analyst III in functional supervision of Seed Analysts I and part-time student employees by providing guidance in following correct laboratory procedures.

Recognizes problems and reports to appropriate authority.

Assists in maintaining an orderly flow of seed samples through laboratory.

Determines percentages of pure seed, weeds, other crop and inert components on all (agricultural, vegetable, flower, trees, and revegetation) submitted seed samples of agricultural seeds in accordance with the Association of Official Seed Analyst (AOSA), Agriculture Canada, and/or International Seed testing Association (ISTA) Rules for Testing Seeds.

Verifies and identifies all common and noxious weed seeds and other crop seeds found in submitted samples, utilizing botanical keys, seed drawings and the ISU seed Herbarium (6500 specimens).

Evaluates standardized germination tests and classifies seeds/seedlings in accordance with the AOSA, Agriculture Canada and/or ISTA Rules for Testing Seeds.

The viability of ungerminated and/or potentially dormant seeds must be determined at the conclusion of germination testing.

Conducts tetrazolium tests according to the AOSA and ISTA guidelines.

Identifies and records botanical name of pathogenic and saprophytic fungi species associated with submitted sample and/or germination tests.

Evaluates and monitors the progress of specialized tests.

Assists Seed Analyst III in determining appropriate purity and germination procedures for species not covered under AOSA or ISTA testing procedures.

Conducts routine seed health tests, including: blotter tests.

agar tests, microscopic exams, wash tests, bacterial dilution tests, seedling grow outs, and Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA) for viruses.

Confirms species identification with appropriate university staff.

Conducts variety purity tests and determines variants and off-types.

Maintains a varietal database for each respective species and varieties tested.

Utilized testing procedures such as: hilum exam, peroxidase test, fluorescence test, and with seed company personnel when required.

Assists laboratory manager and Seed Analyst III in conducting short courses, workshops, tours, and laboratory sessions.

Answers general questions and explains rules used in testing.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Multiple positions are available.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Comprehensive knowledge of AOSA and ISTA Rules for Testing Seeds and other related publications such as Seed Laws and Handbooks concerning seed testing issues.

Knowledge of seed morphology and physiology.

Knowledge of early growth characteristics of various groups of seeds in order to properly evaluate their growth potential.

Skill in all phases of seed analysis.

Skill in identifying a large number of weed seeds as well as crop seeds.

Skill in identifying the commonly encountered fungi and bacteria species.

Ability to examine and manipulate small seeds and seedlings.

Ability to perform mathematical computation in order to determine percentages from the weight calculations.

Ability to instruct others in purity and germination procedures.

Ability to work under a variety of conditions such as noise, pollen, odors, chemicals, dust and mold.

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Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on Apply and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program

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