Research Associate, Research Scientist

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Position Details

Announcement Number: STAFF - VA - 25320

Contact:
Giseli Valentini
giseli.valentini

Research in the Pulse Crop Breeding Program focuses on developing new varieties of field pea, lentil, and chickpea. The Research Associate will assist with cyclical routine research trials in the field and greenhouse, carrying out experiments with some oversight from the project director.

Position Number: 4C0115, Department:
Plant Sciences, Level: Professional Contract, FTE: 1.0, Salary $55,000–$60,000 annually (commensurate with experience).

• Design and conduct experiments exercising discretion with minimal supervision.
• Analyze and interpret data to guide future experiments.
• Daily tasks include: maintaining equipment; conducting experiments in field and greenhouse; assisting with crossing and population development; organizing laboratory and cataloging equipment; ordering supplies; analyzing data with computer programs; supporting publications and presentations.
• Prepare annual reports summarizing data collected during the year.

• B.S. in agronomy or closely related field.
• Working knowledge of plant breeding methodology.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct field and greenhouse trials and operate routine maintenance on plot-scale equipment.

• M.S. in agronomy or related field.
• Experience with production of pulse crops in Montana.
• Experience growing and maintaining plants in greenhouse facilities.
• Knowledge of Montana cropping systems.
• Experience supervising undergraduate students.
• Experience using Agrobase Gen II or Genovix.
• Working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software.

• Ability to interact professionally with lab workers, external collaborators, and students.
• Ability to organize and maintain a well-organized physical workspace.
• Ability to keep a regular work schedule.
• Detail oriented.

• Continuation contingent upon funding availability.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record; out-of-state license holders must obtain a Montana license within 60 days of hire.
• Work hours may exceed 8 hours/day during planting and harvest.
• Must obtain pesticide applicator license within six months of hire.

• Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in inclement weather conditions.
• Ability to safely operate research plot-scale tractors, planters, combines and other stationary equipment.

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Number of Vacancies : 1

Start Date:

Upon completion of a successful search
Applications accepted until adequate applicant pool is established (Screening begins November 19, 2025).
Position is not eligible for sponsorship.

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