Research and Extension Assistant​/Extension Program Worker

Position Summary (Basic Job Function)

In alignment with the mission, programs and initiatives of MSU Extension, delivers research-based information to program participants through various methods and/or provides support and coordination of MSU Extension programs.

Michigan State University Extension is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to support applied research, Extension programming, and educational outreach in viticulture and specialty fruit crops. The successful candidate will assist with research projects related to vineyard management, grapevine cold hardiness, precision viticulture, robotics and sensing technologies, integrated pest management, and sustainable fruit production. Responsibilities will include field and laboratory research support, data collection and entry, educational events, demonstrations, and development of Extension publications and outreach materials.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on experience working with growers, researchers, Extension educators, and industry partners while contributing to innovative research and outreach programs across Michigan.

The Research Assistant will support a broad range of research and Extension activities within the Michigan State University Extension Viticulture and Fruit Crops Program. Responsibilities may include assisting with applied research projects in viticulture and specialty fruit crops; supporting ongoing research in grapevine cold hardiness, precision viticulture, robotics and artificial intelligence applications for early disease detection, vineyard management, sustainable production systems, and integrated pest management;

assisting with field plot establishment, maintenance, sampling, data collection, laboratory activities, and data entry; helping organize and conduct Extension meetings, grower workshops, field days, demonstrations, and educational programs; assisting with development of Extension publications, newsletters, fact sheets, videos, social media content, and educational materials; participating in data analysis, literature reviews, report preparation, and manuscript development; assisting with operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment;

working collaboratively with MSU faculty, Extension educators, students, growers, and industry partners; and performing additional research and Extension activities as assigned.

• Knowledge equivalent to an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or higher degree in horticulture, plant science, agriculture, engineering, biology, computer science, environmental science, or a closely related field.
• Ability to perform outdoor field work under varying weather conditions.
• Experience with statistical software, GIS, programming, drones, sensors, artificial intelligence, robotics, or image analysis is desirable but not required.
• Experience or interest in agricultural research, horticulture, viticulture, specialty crops, engineering, robotics, precision agriculture, data science, or Extension programming is desirable.
• Proven ability in establishing and working with a network of constituents and community members across race, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, disabilities, and other differences.
• Demonstrated success in program development and delivery to audiences/communities representative of the communities we serve, and proven ability in establishing and working with a network of constituents and community members across race, color, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, and other differences.
• Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.
• Combination of education and specific, relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and use of appropriate…