Research Associate - Field Research Program

Research Associate - Field Research Program

This position will work under the supervision of the Associate Professor of Plant Pathology at the Eastern Agricultural Research Center to manage and conduct field research projects focused on crop disease management and agricultural production systems. Responsibilities include establishing and maintaining research plots, collecting field data, managing research activities, performing data analysis, preparing reports and manuscripts, and supervising seasonal employees and student workers.

This position provides an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist to develop advanced skills in applied agricultural research, including field experiment management, research data collection and analysis, scientific communication, and supervision of research personnel. The successful candidate will gain experience working across a diverse portfolio of grant-funded research projects while contributing to research outcomes that support agricultural production in the Northern Great Plains.

The successful candidate will be an experienced field researcher who enjoys hands-on agricultural research, working outdoors, and being part of a small collaborative research team within a rural agricultural community. This position requires flexibility, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to work together with other team members to successfully complete research objectives.

Position provides scientific support for diverse applied agricultural research projects conducted by the Plant Pathology Program at the Eastern Agricultural Research Center. The Research Associate will play an important role in implementing field research projects, maintaining high-quality research standards, managing experimental data, supporting graduate student research, and communicating research findings through reports, presentations, and scientific publications.

Conduct and coordinate field research activities, including plot establishment, maintenance, field evaluations, sampling, and harvest activities. Collect, organize, manage, and analyze research data using established protocols. Assist with experimental design, statistical analysis, and interpretation of research results. Maintain accurate records of research activities, field conditions, and project outcomes. Supervise and train research assistants, student employees, and temporary workers. Provide mentorship to graduate students.

Lead in the preparation of technical reports, presentations, and scientific manuscripts. Operate research equipment, agricultural equipment, and university vehicles as needed. Assist with field days, research tours, and other outreach activities. Follow university safety policies and maintain a safe working environment.

Master's degree in Plant Pathology, Crop Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or a closely related discipline. Demonstrated experience conducting hands-on agricultural field research including establishing, maintaining, evaluating, and harvesting research experiments. Experience in experimental design as well as collecting, managing, and analyzing scientific data. Experience using Microsoft Office and statistical software, including R or similar statistical programs. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.

Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a collaborative team.

Experience evaluating crop diseases or other agronomic traits. Demonstrated experience preparing scientific manuscripts, technical reports, or research presentations. Experience supervising students, research assistants, or temporary employees. Experience operating agricultural equipment and maintaining field research plots. Hands-on experience operating a backpack sprayer and applying experimental fungicides.

Demonstrate enthusiasm and willingness to conduct hands-on agricultural field research. Work effectively as part of a collaborative team where members contribute to shared research goals. Take ownership of assigned responsibilities and complete tasks reliably with appropriate independence.…