Temporary Research Assistant

Temporary Research Assistant

Join the Martin‑Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the University of Kentucky’s Plant and Soil Sciences department. The role focuses on coordinating research experiments on monitoring N balance and nutrient losses from grain crop rotations. Responsibilities include collecting field experimental data, measuring nitrous oxide emissions, nitrogen leaching, and soil inorganic nitrogen, developing methodologies and sampling protocols, overseeing undergraduate and graduate student data collection and sample processing, maintaining laboratory equipment, summarizing data and findings for reports and national meetings.

• Coordinate implementation of research experiments monitored for N balance and nutrient losses from grain crop rotations.
• Collect field experimental data (nitrous oxide emissions, nitrogen leaching, soil inorganic nitrogen).
• Develop new methodologies and sampling protocols.
• Identify research needs and develop plans to address those needs.
• Instruct and oversee undergraduate and graduate students collecting data and samples.
• Implement lab protocols for data generation, processing, and storage.
• Summarize data in figures and tables, and prepare project reports.
• Present results at national meetings.

• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
• Some knowledge and interest in image processing software (e.g., Pix4D, QGIS, ARQIS) and UAV imaging data processing.
• Experience with R or Python.
• Previous agronomic field experiment experience preferred but not required.
• Attention to detail and prior laboratory or data management experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Physical ability to stand, sit, walk, bend, lift, and work outside in all conditions.

Requisition Number: DU13042
Department: 81060:
Plant and Soil Sciences

Work Location:

Lexington, KY
Salary Range: $16–$25 per hour
Type:
Temporary, Full‑Time

Shift: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm
Final date to receive applications:
December 31, 2025

The University of Kentucky follows federal and state nondiscrimination laws and provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources, which may include a national background check and/or drug screen.