Trademark Management Specialist

The Land Institute•Salina, KS

8h•$45,968 - $51,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Land Institute co-leads the global movement for perennial, diverse, regenerative grain agriculture at a scale that matches the enormity of the intertwined climate, water, and food security crises. An independent 501(c)(3) non-profit founded in 1976, the organization seeks to reconcile the human economy with nature's economy, starting with food. The transdisciplinary team of scientists, together with global partners, are developing new perennial grain crops, like Kernza®, and diverse cropping systems that function within nature's limits while researching the social transformation required for a just, perennial human future. As the Trademark Management Specialist on the Crop Stewardship team, you will support and enact the daily operations of managing the Kernza® trademark from annual monitoring of grain quality to licensing processes and follow-up. You are someone who loves a wide variety of tasks and enjoys flowing with the seasonal aspects of sample collection, processing, analysis, outreach, and planning. Your daily tasks will include intake and processing of annual grain samples from Kernza and Baki growers, using equipment such as a cleaner, dehuller, optical sorter, and mill, compiling and analyzing grain quality data, managing and maintaining the grower database, and leading trademark management and administration. You are a team player who brings passion and curiosity to the work needed to see more perennial grains on the landscape and support early adopters. You will manage multiple tasks, projects, and timelines under your program lead's direction and use knowledge and skills in analysis, administration, grower outreach and lab work to advance the program's research goals, both independently and collaboratively.

Requirements

High school diploma
Background in agriculture, farming, ecology, or a related field
Interested in a career related to agriculture, ecology, and sustainable food systems
Good communication skills, both written and verbal. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to provide clear guidance on complex topics.
Basic math skills and numerical literacy
Computer literacy: able to use word processing and spreadsheet applications
Familiarity with statistical analyses and programming languages such as R or Interests and ability to learn new software such as R, AirTable, and other programs for statistical analysis and lab organization
Observe safety and security procedures; use equipment and materials properly
Demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness; look for ways to improve and promote quality
Ability to collaborate effectively with individuals across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences.
Ability to work well with others throughout the organization to build positive teamwork

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Agronomy, soil-relevant field)
Experience with soil, chemistry, or agriculture-related fields and/or lab work
Experience as part of a research lab and conducting an independent research project
Familiarity with statistical analyses and programming languages such as R

Responsibilities

Intake, log, and process numerous perennial grain samples (Kernza, Baki) submitted by growers annually
Collect and prepare bin-run or cleaned and dehulled grain subsamples for in-house TLI testing and submission to partner labs for mycotoxin testing using various grain processing equipment, such as a cleaner, dehuller, color sorter, and mill
Carry out laboratory procedures, such as grain moisture analysis, test weights, thousand kernel weight, and mycotoxin testing, consistently with a high degree of precision
Carefully record, enter, and manage laboratory data in notebooks, spreadsheets, and online databases in alignment with specific project guidelines
Ensure that equipment and supplies needed for all tasks are available, clean, and in good working order before, during, and after use
Respond to Kernza-related inquiries, including from the info@kernza email and phone calls from the general public
Support maintenance and relevance of the Kernza.org website by working with the communications team to make and/or coordinate website updates and edits
Manage Kernza license application processes and licensee database, including applicant outreach, review, and follow-up
Support the Crop Stewardship Program Manager with Annual Grower Survey data collection and analysis
Participate in team meetings relevant to your tasks and areas of expertise.
Maintain relationships and communication with external collaborators; help to coordinate and participate in cross-project and lab work.
Support public or private tours of The Land Institute’s research plots and facilities; remain informed and attuned to the work and the mission of the organization.
Assist with data analysis
Synthesize and present project results at meetings
Research and develop protocols
Help to refine lab and licensing protocols based on the needs of your program
Direct & oversee the work of interns and research assistants in the lab for lab tasks, as well as assisting with any necessary training