Research Associate Specialist

Louisiana State University

33d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a grant-funded, non-tenure track position through 12/31/2027. Funding must be available for any continuation of appointment. The individual will be expected to perform a variety of duties as a research associate for the scientist conducting soil fertility research with agronomic crops at the Macon Ridge Research Station. These duties include collection and processing of soil and plant tissue samples; fertilizer application; field scouting; basic maintenance and cleaning of working area; conducting basic science laboratory techniques; collecting and computerizing research data (be familiar with spreadsheet software); and managing research projects. The individual must be detail oriented and capable of working without direct supervision after receiving proper training; must be able to work under various weather conditions. Current projects would require the successful applicant to cooperate with various personnel of the Macon Ridge Research Station and related units in joint tasks when deemed necessary.

Requirements

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Plant Science, General Agriculture or other agriculture related fields of study is preferred.
• A master's degree is desired.
• Applicants with a degree in another agricultural or basic science field will be considered qualifying provided they possess significant work experience in a soil/plant science area.
• Detail oriented
• Capable of working without direct supervision after receiving proper training
• Able to work under various weather conditions
• Familiar with spreadsheet software

Responsibilities

• Collection and processing of soil and plant tissue samples
• Fertilizer application
• Field scouting
• Basic maintenance and cleaning of working area
• Conducting basic science laboratory techniques
• Collecting and computerizing research data
• Managing research projects
• Cooperating with various personnel of the Macon Ridge Research Station and related units in joint tasks

Benefits

• Retirement
• Multiple medical insurance options
• Supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.)
• Tax saver flexible benefits plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses)
• University holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas)
• Generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits
• Employee assistance program
• Possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level