Research Assistant II

MSU’s Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Program investigates nutrient management, fertilizer, and nutrient-contamination issues in corn, soybean, wheat, sugarbeet, potato, dry bean, and other Michigan cropping systems. The goal is to provide science-based research and extension information that improves crop production, increases nutrient and ecological efficiencies, and incorporates progressive nutrient management strategies.

About the role

This position offers a combination of year-round indoor and outdoor activities with seasonal fieldwork involving moderate physical effort (lifting supplies, operating equipment, and working in variable weather conditions). Knowledge of agricultural chemicals and safety procedures is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead a coordinated applied field nutrient management research program, including timely implementation of field research projects and the ability to organize, design, plant, maintain, and harvest field research trials.
• Coordinate year-round field research activities, including data collection, managing research records, experimental design, and coordinating activities across multiple farms and farm managers.
• Generate ideas for developing research projects and monitor protocols for nutrient management applied research.
• Supervise, train, and mentor graduate students, visiting interns, and undergraduate student support.
• Collect, organize, summarize, and analyze experimental data for contributions to research summaries and extension materials.
• Assist with the calibration, operation, and maintenance of field equipment and plot application equipment, including backpack sprayers and spray booms.
• Participate in outreach activities, meetings, and assist with ideas for the development of research publications and other educational materials.
• Maintain meticulous year-to-year records of field activities, methods, materials, and experimental results to ensure quality and reproducibility.
• Demonstrate familiarity with different fertilizers, fertilizer analyses, nutrient application methods and techniques, and application equipment calibration.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, or a related field.
• Three to five years of related and progressively more responsible work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, performing specialized analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 suite and other research-specific software.
• Valid vehicle operator’s license.
• Michigan Commercial Driver’s License with “Group A” designation (required prior to the completion of the probationary period).
• Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s license for field crops (required prior to the completion of the probationary period).

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, or a related field.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail for managing multiple ongoing projects.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to foster collaboration among farm crew, managers, students, and faculty.
• Passion for applied field research and willingness to work outdoors under varying conditions.
• Dependability and initiative in managing project logistics, data collection, and timelines.

Schedule

Standard 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with seasonal fieldwork. This is a 12-month, off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire, with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Physical Demands & Health Risks

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Drive university vehicles requiring a commercial driver’s license (GVWR of 26,001+ pounds or towing 10,001+ pounds).
• Drive university vehicles not requiring a commercial driver’s license but requiring medical certification (GVWR of 10,001–26,000 pounds).
• Work in noisy areas (at or above 85 decibels).
• Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides.
• Wear a respirator (does not include paper dust masks worn for comfort).