Research Assistant II
About The Position
The MSU Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Program is seeking a motivated and highly organized Research Assistant to help manage, coordinate, and conduct nutrient-focused field research across major Michigan cropping systems. The Steinke Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Program investigates nutrient management, fertilizer, and nutrient-contamination issues of corn, soybean, wheat, sugarbeet, potato, dry bean, and several other cropping systems. Our goal is to use applied field research to provide science-based research and extension information that improves crop production, increases nutrient and ecological efficiencies, and incorporates progressive nutrient management strategies for production agricultural systems.
Requirements
- Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a Bachelor Degree program in Agronomy, Soil Science, or related field
- Three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365 suite of products and other software specific to the area of research
- Valid vehicle operator’s license required
- Michigan Commercial Driver’s License with “Group A” designation required prior to the completion of the probationary period
- Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s license for field crops required prior to the completion of the probationary period
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, or related field
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail for managing multiple ongoing projects.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills to foster collaboration amongst farm crew and managers, students, and faculty.
- Passion for applied field research and a willingness to work outdoors under varying conditions.
- Dependability and initiative in managing project logistics, data collection, and timelines.
Responsibilities
- Lead a coordinated applied field nutrient management research program including the timely implementation of field research projects and the ability to organize, design, plant, maintain, and harvest field research trials.
- Help coordinate year-round field research activities including data collection, managing research records, experimental design, and coordinating activities across multiple farms and farm managers.
- Generate ideas for developing research projects and monitor protocols for nutrient management applied research.
- Supervise, train, and mentor activities for graduate students, visiting interns, and undergraduate student support.
- Collect, organize, summarize, and analyze experimental data for contributions to research summaries and extension materials.
- Assist with the calibration, operation, and maintenance of field equipment and plot application equipment including backpack sprayers and spray booms.
- Participate in outreach activities, meetings, and assist with ideas for the development of research publications and other educational materials.
- Maintain meticulous year-to-year records of field activities, methods, materials, and experimental results to ensure quality and reproducibility.
- Must be familiar with different fertilizers, fertilizer analyses, nutrient application methods and techniques, and application equipment calibration.
Benefits
- 12 months from date of hire; renewable annually subject to performance and continuation of funding
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
