Program Associate

University of Arkansas System•Fayetteville, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture is seeking a Program Associate to support interdisciplinary research examining poultry production, consumption trends, international trade, and animal health economics within the poultry sector. This position involves conducting applied economic research, managing and analyzing data, contributing to industry-facing reports and outreach materials, and assisting with projects related to market resilience, disease impacts, supply chain dynamics, and agricultural policy. The ideal candidate will possess strong quantitative and analytical skills, experience working with large datasets, a background in economics and STEM, and the ability to communicate research findings effectively to both academic and industry audiences. Experience or interest in global agricultural markets, livestock systems, or animal health economics is highly desirable.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics or a closely related field, plus three years of related professional experience OR a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics or a closely related field with quantitative training.
Experience with data analysis, survey methods, statistical software, or econometric modeling (i.e., STATA, R, GAMs).
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to synthesize research findings for diverse audiences.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within interdisciplinary research teams.
Demonstrated interest in agricultural markets, livestock systems, international trade, or animal health economics.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple project responsibilities simultaneously.
Proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

Nice To Haves

Academic or professional experience related to poultry, livestock, animal health, or agricultural trade.
More than one year of field experience preferred.
Experience working with large datasets, digital management, and applied economic research methods.
Interest in global agricultural systems and international agribusiness development.
Experience with extension, outreach, or stakeholder engagement activities.
Familiarity with agricultural production.
Experience collaborating in multicultural or international environments.

Responsibilities

Assist with economic research projects related to poultry production, consumption, trade, and animal health issues.
Compile, clean, and manage primary and secondary datasets using appropriate econometric and statistical methods.
Conduct quantitative analyses examining topics such as disease outbreaks, market disruptions, trade flows, consumer demand, and production economics.
Support literature reviews and background research related to livestock and poultry economics.
Prepare research summaries, extension materials, policy briefs, presentations, and industry reports for academic, producer, and stakeholder audiences.
Contribute to analyses evaluating the economic impacts of animal health events and agricultural policy changes on poultry and feed markets.
Assist with development of outreach materials translating research findings into practical recommendations for industry stakeholders.
Support ongoing grant-funded research activities and collaborate with faculty, graduate students, and external partners.
Participate in project coordination, data collection efforts, and stakeholder engagement activities.
Contribute to manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and extension programming.