Assistant, Associate, or Full Research Professor and State Extension Specialist

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will focus on applied agronomic research to improve sustainable rice production in southeast Missouri. The soils and topography of southeastern Missouri (the most northern region of U.S. rice production) offers researchers a unique opportunity to study production in both paddy and row rice systems. Conducting rice variety trials and management of rice in rotation with other crops for optimum yields and quality is a central responsibility. In addition, the candidate is expected to provide leadership to discover and apply innovative tools and practices for the management of water, fertilizer, and other inputs to improve efficiency of rice production. The work will include planning, designing, and conducting field experiments (including data collection and statistical analyses) with input from producers to target research projects relevant to the Missouri rice producing region. A significant portion of the position is supported by the Missouri Rice Research and Merchandising Council (MRRMC). A strong collaboration and working relationship with the MRRMC is required to be successful in this role. A relocation to within 70 driving miles of the Fisher Delta Research, Extension, and Education Center in Portageville, MO, is expected. Collaboration with public and private researchers, farmers, and extension specialists within Missouri and other states is expected. Availability to rice producers to answer questions about rice production is critical. Ability to secure extramural funding and publish research findings is required. It is expected that research-based information will be disseminated to producers, industry and the scientific community via extension presentations and other publications including refereed journal articles.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in agronomy, soil science, agricultural engineering, or related field by the time of appointment.
• Proficiency in rice production practices, including knowledge of weed and disease/insect control, fertility, tillage, and irrigation.
• Excellent oral skills to communicate with farmers and other commodity stakeholders and the ability to work well in a collaborative team are essential.
• Experience in an aspect of precision agriculture (such as digital technology as it relates to modernizing farming practices).
• The ability to secure extramural funding.
• Proven experience in data analysis, and writing (e.g., grant proposals, scientific publications, and extension publications).

Contact

Questions pertaining to the job may be directed to Dr. Kevin Bradley, Chair of the Search Committee at 573-882-1239. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Human Resource Services at 573-882-7976 or muhrs@missouri.edu.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.