Job Information
Kelly Services Associate Scientist - Plant Propagation in Newark, Delaware
Job Title: Associate Scientist
Location: Newark, DE
Pay Rate: $23/hour-$26/hr
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Position Type: 6 month contract
Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated Associate Scientist to support a commercial herbicide portfolio by generating high-quality biological data essential for new product development and product renewal. This role focuses on conducting controlled environment experiments (greenhouse, growth chambers, and outdoor field settings) to evaluate herbicide performance while adhering to strict scientific protocols and safety standards.
This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with a background in plant science or related agricultural disciplines who enjoy hands-on research and working in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and conduct experiments for herbicide development in greenhouse, growth chamber, and outdoor field environments
Perform plant propagation, sorting, staging, and preparation of experimental test units
Prepare experimental variables including herbicide formulations and serial dilutions
Conduct herbicide spray applications using specialized equipment
Implement bioassays and screening protocols to evaluate herbicide efficacy and crop tolerance
Collect, analyze, and interpret biological data; prepare summaries and reports for project teams
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage project timelines and resources
Ensure compliance with GLP standards, safety protocols, and research guidelines
Properly dispose of unused or poor-quality bioassays and manage disposal of regulated plant species according to safety requirements
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Plant Science, Agronomy, Weed Science, Horticulture, or a related field
Basic understanding of agriculture, food production, and crop protection
Familiarity with regulatory and compliance requirements in research or laboratory environments
Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel for data entry, analysis, and reporting
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree (MS) in Plant Science, Agronomy, Weed Science, Horticulture, or related field
Knowledge of weed identification, herbicide application, and herbicide evaluation methods
Experience & Skills
Hands-on experience in greenhouse and/or field research
Laboratory skills including formulation handling and serial dilution preparation
Knowledge of herbicide application techniques and evaluation methods
Strong attention to detail and observational skills
Ability to independently execute complex experimental plans with minimal supervision
Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills
Familiarity with safety practices and compliance standards
Demonstrated reliability in meeting timelines and delivering high-quality results
If you are a detail-oriented science professional looking to grow your career in agricultural research, we encourage you to apply today!
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As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here (https://www.mykelly.com/help-support-working-with-kelly-us/#Benefits) for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.
Why Kelly ® Science & Clinical?
Kelly Science & Clinical is your connection to premier scientific and clinical companies looking to hire industry experts just like you. Our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. Every day, we match science professionals with dream jobs that fit their skills, interests, and career goals—it’s the way we think job searching should be. Nearly 100 percent of our science recruiters have a professional background and education in science, so we know a thing or two about the science market and how to get your expertise noticed.
About Kelly
Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life—just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
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Kelly Services is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We welcome, value, and embrace diversity at all levels and are committed to building a team that is inclusive of a variety of backgrounds, communities, perspectives, and abilities. At Kelly, we believe that the more inclusive we are, the better services we can provide. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to Kelly’s Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment.