Principal Function
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is seeking a highly qualified Seed Bank Program Manager or Research Scientist for its Conservation Seed Bank, based at the Southeastern Center for Conservation. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of the Director of Research, leading seed-banking initiatives across the Southeast to support the survival of rare species in the wild. This role involves strategizing seed banking initiatives for Southeastern Regional Species of Conservation Need (RSGCN), ensuring the efficient handling of samples (seeds, spores, pollen), and integrating innovative protocols into the Garden’s seed bank programs.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management and Operations: Lead the planning, development, and implementation of seed bank operations to ensure the effective conservation of plant species. Oversees the collection, processing, storage, and germination of seeds, adhering to best practices in seed conservation.
Research and Collaboration: Work closely with scientists, researchers, and conservation organizations to identify priority species for conservation and to support restoration projects. Participate in research to improve seed storage and germination techniques.
Funding and Resource Management: Identify and pursue funding opportunities to support seed bank operations. Manage budgets, resources, and grants effectively to ensure the sustainability of the program.
Laboratory Management: Oversee the Conservation Seed Bank staff and support germination trials, viability tests, and seed cleaning processes. Ensure excellence in handling rare and imperiled species.
Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a team of technicians and volunteers, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment. Ensure staff are trained in seed collection, storage techniques, and safety protocols.
Research and Data Management: Lead the development of species-specific seed bank procedures, maintain immaculate records, and optimize laboratory workflows for sample storage and viability tests.
Training and Safety Protocols: Conduct training workshops and ensure that all lab staff adhere to best practices in safety and data management.
Data Management and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of seed collections, storage conditions, and germination rates. Prepare reports and analyses to track program progress and to share findings with stakeholders.

Qualifications
Required: MSc or Ph.D. in ecology, botany, biology, conservation, or a related science field. Minimum of 2 years of experience in seed banking, seed research, or seed conservation.
International candidates will be considered, fluent English is required and a work visa is preferred.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team and independently. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Valid Driver’s License with a good driving record.
Preferred: Experience with orchids and imperiled plants of the southeastern United States, seed and pollen viability analysis, tissue culture, and statistical software (e.g., R, JMP). Certifications such as SCST, CVT, or RST are highly desirable. Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
Strong leadership skills and experience managing teams.
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of plant taxonomy, seed biology, and conservation strategies.
Physical Requirements
Visual acuity, manual dexterity, and attention to detail are critical. Ability to spend long periods of time in the laboratory performing complex protocols. Ability to take careful notes and improve laboratory organization.
Some regional and international travel will be required.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lb.
What We Offer
A dynamic and supportive work environment in a mission-driven organization.
Opportunities for professional development and training in conservation and seed banking.
The chance to make a significant impact on global biodiversity conservation efforts.
These job duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work for employees in this position, but this is not an exclusive or all-inclusive inventory of all duties required for this position.

It is the policy of the Atlanta Botanical Garden to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.