Research Associate I

MSU Jobs•Starkville, MS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, employs a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures in a particular field of specialization to plan, coordinate, and conduct research. The Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute administers and coordinates research and outreach programs dealing with water and related resources. Its activities are developed in close consultation and collaboration between the Institute and leading water resources officials within the state. The program's purpose is to provide a coordinated research and development program that contributes to the solution of water and water-related land use problems in Mississippi, the region, and the nation. The successful applicant will be a part of a water-centric, row crop agriculture group. Consequently, the candidate will have obligations in addition to the above that will include various levels of accountability for projects ranging in scale from small-plot to on-farm. Thus, this person is expected to be able to work autonomously and in a team. Travel to research locations, conferences, or other meetings will be required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in related discipline.
Significant knowledge of scientific and research methodologies, particularly as it relates to agricultural research at various scales.
Ability to develop and employ experimental protocols and procedures.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Organized and possess good planning skills.

Nice To Haves

Able to operate and maintain various farm equipment.
Experience on a production agriculture farm.
Experience in agricultural research, including knowledge of experimental design, plot layout, and agronomic principles.

Responsibilities

Plans, coordinates, and conducts scientific research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard scientific techniques.
Applies an analytical approach to the solution of a wide variety of problems, or applies specialized techniques or ingenuity in selecting and evaluating approaches to unforeseen or novel problems.
Demonstrates and applies thorough understanding of scientific methods, research protocols, assessment instruments, and data interpretation.
Designs, performs, and/or oversees experiments and data collection to ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs, as appropriate to the specific position; prepares manuscripts for publication; presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.
Independently performs most research assignments with instructions as to the general results expected; receives guidance on unusual or complex problems.
Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
May lead, guide, and train staff/student employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.