Research Scientist I

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

1d

About The Position

The Department of Agronomy is seeking a Research Scientist I to support applied research in integrated cropping systems. This position involves extensive field work, data management and analysis, collaboration with internal and external research partners, and technical writing. The successful candidate will contribute to the coordination and management of field experiments, collection and analysis of agronomic and environmental data, laboratory activities, and dissemination of research outcomes.

The Archontoulis lab (integrated cropping systems) performs research in three areas with the objective of improving crop productivity, farm profitability, and environmental sustainability: Field experimentation to phenotype plants towards better understanding genotype x management x environment interactions. Cropping systems modeling to connect multi-faceted experimental datasets on soil water, soil nitrogen, soil carbon with plant growth and weather variables to improve modeling capacity and explore what-if questions and trade-offs Predictive modeling across temporal and spatial scales

You will work at the intersection of soils, crops, drones, climate, weather, and management practices—linking plant biology with soil and environmental processes to improve agricultural prediction. This role spans field, lab, data analysis, and modeling work, offering hands-on experience across cropping systems and remote sensing technologies. You will participate in project meetings with industry partners and international collaborators, contributing to applied research with real-world impact. The lab supports flexibility and professional growth, allowing responsibilities to align with your strengths and interests—whether in plants, soils, modeling, or technologies such as drones—while advancing shared research goals. This is an opportunity to be part of a forward-looking research program that integrates experimentation, technology, and predictive science to improve agricultural systems. This is a term position with opportunity for renewal.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy or closely related field
• Experience with maize and soybean crops and managing field experimentation
• Experience collecting plant and soil samples and drone imagery
• Experience in data analysis and statistics and use of R or spatial analysis tools.
• Experience coordinating projects or research.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and conduct field research related to integrated cropping systems.
• Manage the establishment, maintenance, and execution of field experiments.
• Collect, process, and analyze agronomic, soil, and environmental data.
• Perform data quality control checks to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Maintain and regularly update research databases.
• Facilitate data sharing and communication with research collaborators and partners.
• Conduct statistical and quantitative data analyses and implement research methodologies based on analytical outcomes.
• Train students and research staff in equipment operation and laboratory techniques; explain and demonstrate technology capabilities, limitations, and outcomes.
• Maintain and calibrate field and laboratory equipment, including drones, soil moisture sensors, and other research instrumentation.
• Contribute to scientific publications and assist in the preparation of research grant proposals.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

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