Research Associate, Research Assistant​/Associate, Agriculture ​/ Farming

Position Function:

To assist with the research work involved in establishing, maintaining, and conducting horticulture studies, collecting and analyzing data, and processing samples from experiments. The individual will be part of a research team for a horticulture research station. The person will be expected to work independently and in cooperation with faculty, staff, and field labor. The applicant is also expected to perform work assignments outlined by the research professor.

Salary Grade : 13

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are 'Unclassified' and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

The Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center (CMREC) is one of four Research and Extension Centers in the MSU System and located in Raymond, MS. The Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) - Truck Crops Branch Experiment Station is administratively associated with the CMREC and located in Crystal Springs, MS. The station's primary mission is to conduct research to benefit the Mississippi vegetable, ornamental, fruit, and/or nut industries.

November 1, 2026.

These duties include:

• 1. Following research protocols, planning and implementing field experiments, and harvesting/recording data in the field, greenhouse, and lab setting data
• 2. Planting, fertilizing, scouting for plant problems, cross-pollinating, propagating with cuttings and tissue culture, spraying, weeding, weighing, counting, cataloging, measuring, and harvesting
• 3. Growing and maintaining quality plant material in the field, greenhouse, and lab setting
• 4. Greenhouse production, including scheduling, monitoring the control system, and checking pH and EC levels etc.
• 5. Safely handling, mixing, and applying pesticides and fertilizers
• 6. Meticulous record keeping
• 7. Data recording and entry into computer spreadsheets
• 8. Data analysis and technical writing
• 9. Assisting with field days, sales, and other activities on the experiment station as needed
• 10. Updating the trial garden website
• 11. Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor

Education:

Bachelor of Science Degree

Rank and salary will be commensurate with education and/or experience.

Master's Degree in Horticulture or related field with a minimum of 3 years experience.

• Time management and organization skills required
• Knowledge of data analysis and experimental design preferred
• Fundamental knowledge of plant biology and genetics preferred
• Proficiency with computer programs, specifically Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), and initiative to learn new computer programs as needed
• Ability to conduct experiments within a laboratory, including proper pipette use and ability to follow written protocols preferred
• Ability to maintain lab sanitation by practicing proper disinfection and disposal procedures for tissue and cultural waste

Willingness and ability to work in an outdoor garden environment are essential.

Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to and often over 50 pounds. Physical work is a large portion of the job. Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

September 29, 2026, until filled.

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is…