Assistant Professor, Cropping System Agronomist *Havre, MT

Position Overview

The Cropping Systems Agronomist will lead a field‑oriented research program to diversify and intensify crop rotations in northcentral Montana. This twelve‑month, tenure‑track Assistant Professor position focuses on research, outreach, and service (research 80%, outreach 10%, service 10%) with no formal teaching duties.

Location:

Northern Agricultural Research Center (NARC), seven miles southwest of Havre, MT.

• Design, conduct, and analyze field studies on cereals, pulses, oilseeds, forages, and alternative crops.

• Collect data, operate agricultural machinery, and implement research methodologies.

• Engage stakeholders (farmers, extension personnel, industry groups) to identify research needs and develop management recommendations.

• Collaborate with multi‑disciplinary MSU scientists and public‑sector partners.

• Leverage on‑site dryland and irrigated fields, greenhouse facilities, laboratory space, and precision irrigation systems.

• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students as needed.

• Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Plant Physiology, or a closely related field at the time of hire.
• Documented experience in field crop production and cropping systems research with crops common to Montana.
• Experience planning, designing, and implementing innovative, economically relevant field research; interpreting results with accepted scientific methodology.
• Peer‑reviewed journal articles and outreach materials aligned with training and experience.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Successful grant‑writing experience.
• Postdoctoral research experience.
• Experience with semi‑arid small grain and alternative crop production systems in the Northern Great Plains.
• Interest in integrating greenhouse trials.
• Experience with producer outreach activities.
• Personal experience operating field research equipment including tractors, seeders, and combines.
• Ability to collaborate across academic disciplines and cultural diversity.

• Valid U.S. driver’s license or equivalent; obtain Montana license within six months of hire.
• Obtain Montana Government Pesticide Applicator License within six months.
• Successful completion of a pre‑employment background check.

This position requires extensive fieldwork, navigating uneven terrain, working in dust, seeds, pollen, and inclement weather, with occasional lifting up to 60 pounds.

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, age, marital status, national origin, disability, or any other protected class status in violation of applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference to veterans, disabled veterans, and eligible relatives of veterans.

Veterans’ preference information is located in the demographics section of your profile.