Research Associate, Research Scientist

Job Details

Job Title:

Research Associate
Agency:
Texas A&M Agri Life Research Department

Location:

Lubbock, Texas
Job Type: Staff

• Oversee the establishment, maintenance, and management of agricultural field experiments, including plot layout, planting, fertilization, irrigation, and harvest activities.
• Collect field data related to crop growth, yield, soil properties, plant health, water use, and environmental conditions following established research protocols.
• Conduct soil, plant, and water sampling in field settings using standardized methods to ensure data quality and consistency.
• Operate hand tools, small equipment, and field instruments (e.g., soil probes, moisture sensors, GPS units, weather instruments) to support research activities.
• Prepare and maintain field research sites, including plot labeling, flagging, mowing, and general upkeep of experimental areas.
• Oversee the calibration, basic maintenance, and cleaning of field and sampling equipment.
• Support safe operation of tractors, ATVs, sprayers, or other agricultural equipment when trained and authorized.
• Accurately record field observations and measurements in notebooks, datasheets, or digital data collection systems.
• Enter, organize, and perform statistical analysis on research data using data management and analysis software (SAS, R, etc.).
• Sample processing, labeling, storage, and documentation for laboratory analysis.
• Collaborate closely with faculty, project managers, research associates/assistants, and graduate students to support ongoing research projects.
• Follow research protocols, safety procedures, and institutional guidelines while working independently or as part of a team.
• Perform work outdoors in variable weather conditions, including heat, wind, dust, and uneven terrain.
• Travel up to 550 miles weekly across Texas to research sites; assist with loading, transporting, and unloading equipment and samples.
• Carry out other related duties as assigned to support agricultural research and field operations.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Two years of related professional experience.
• Familiarity with appropriate laboratory and/or technical equipment.
• Ability to effectively utilize a computer and applicable software to create databases, perform statistical analyses, present data, and perform other computer‑related tasks.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate’s qualifications.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance, with Texas A&M Agri Life contributing to employee health and basic life premiums.
• 12–15 days of annual paid holidays.
• Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month.
• Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.
• Employee Wellness Initiative.
• Life and long‑term disability insurance contributions.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.