Postdoctoral Associate: Nutrient Best Management Practices

University of Florida • Gainesville, FL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) at the University of Florida (UF), Soil, Water, and Ecosystem Sciences (SWES) department is seeking a Post-doctoral Associate. This role will provide leadership and expertise in agriculture nutrient management within the Suwannee Valley agricultural area of north Florida. The position is part of a multi-year demonstration and research project funded by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The project focuses on precision nitrogen application, cover cropping, and soil moisture sensor (SMS) monitoring in various crops including corn, sorghum, cotton, and snap beans. The incumbent will be responsible for routine site visits to collect soil and tissue samples, coordinate with collaborators, and analyze data for reports, EDIS documents, and peer-reviewed publications. Field work will be conducted in hot, humid conditions, and the role requires driving to field locations and stakeholder meetings, as well as presenting findings.

Requirements

• PhD (foreign equivalent acceptable) in Agronomy, Soil Science, Environmental Sciences/Engineering, Nutrient Management, Water Quality, or any related field.
• Strong oral and verbal communication skills.
• Supportive of the mission of the Land-Grant system.
• Commitment to UF core values.
• Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated leadership in interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience and success working with stakeholders to successfully accomplish shared goals.
• Demonstrated experience publishing in extension and/or peer reviewed publications.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and expertise in agriculture nutrient management.
• Conduct a multi-year demonstration and research project involving precision nitrogen application, cover cropping, and soil moisture sensor monitoring.
• Visit demonstration sites routinely to collect soil and tissue samples.
• Be present for logistical meetings prior to, during, and after each farm demonstration.
• Coordinate with collaborators, including UF/IFAS County Extension faculty and Regional Specialized Agents.
• Summarize data analyses for written reports, including quarterly reports to the funding agency, EDIS documents, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Drive to potential field locations and stakeholder meetings.
• Present findings at stakeholder meetings.
• Conduct field work in hot, humid conditions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees