Department of Administrative Services

In the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station this class is responsible for independently performing a range of complex research and related tasks involving demanding analyses, examinations, or developmental research.

May lead/supervise Agricultural Research Technicians, Research Assistants, Seasonal Assistants, and other lower level employees as assigned.

Interprets and applies scientific literature.

IN THE FIELD: diagnoses chemical and biological problems; tests for solutions; performs related duties as required.

IN THE LABORATORY: develops and applies scientific methods; tests materials such as pesticides; performs original research with guidance from a more senior scientist; prepares oral and written reports for other scientists and the public; publishes peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals; must seek grants and extramural funding; performs related duties as required.

Knowledge of relevant research standards, principles and practices; knowledge of scientific techniques such as: analytical procedures, insect identification, diagnosis of plant diseases, experimental design, plant identification, mathematics, chemistry, biology or physics; knowledge of data and physical resources in applicable scientific field; oral and written communications skills; interpersonal skills; ability to organize, evaluate, interpret data, and to publish professional articles in established scientific journals; ability to utilize computer software.

1. A Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate science and six (6) years of professional experience in a scientific research or similar organization, or,
   
2. A Master’s degree in an appropriate science and three (3) years of professional experience in a scientific research or similar organization.

1. Incumbents in this class will be required to possess and retain a valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s license.
2. Incumbents in this class may be required to travel.

1. Incumbents in this class must have adequate physical strength, stamina, physical agility and visual and auditory acuity, and must maintain such physical fitness as to be able to perform the duties.
   
2. A physical examination may be required.

Incumbents in this class may be required to occasionally lift heavy objects, such as standard laboratory equipment and/or trays/boxes of glassware; may be exposed to some risk of injury from such hazards as broken glass, chemicals, and toxic or disease-carrying substances.

This replaces the existing specification for the class of Assistant Agricultural Scientist 1 in Salary Group VR 99 approved March 25, 2011. (2013 SCOPE Review)