NDSU CREC Soil Scientist

Overview

The soil scientist, which is a 100% research appointment, has leadership responsibility for developing, implementing, and reporting outcomes of the soil science research program at the Center. In addition, the scientist will lead the soils research program at CREC and serve within the broader soil health research groups within NDSU. The scientist actively participates in the development and implementation of research projects that address the soil resource and develop applied solutions to regional agricultural concerns.

• Define soil fertility regimes for optimum crop nutrition and address soil salinity, soil management related to residue and tillage systems, erosion reduction, and topsoil depletion in outreach and research efforts.
• Coordinate and collaborate with NDSU, regional, and national project leaders on joint research projects appropriate for the Center; analyze and disseminate information from research programs; participate in outreach efforts; interact with farmers, extension staff, agribusiness representatives and crop commodity organizations.
• Supervise support staff and report to the Center Director.

Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with additional hours as necessary.

Commensurate with experience.

• Minimum Qualifications:
  • A PhD or currently obtaining your PhD in soil science or closely related field.
  • Knowledge and experience working with applied research related to soil fertility, salinity, health, conservation, and/or management.
  • Documented experience in experimental design and analysis.
  • Familiarity with Northern Great Plains cropping systems.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to deliver information via modern media technologies.
  • Demonstrated ability to foster and maintain strong collaborations with other researchers, extension personnel, and stakeholders.
  • Valid driver’s license.

• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Documented collaborations with scientists of other disciplines of agriculture (agr inomy, plant pathology, animal science, entomology, precision agriculture, weed science, etc.).
  • Documented experience in production agriculture across a diversity of crops.
  • Experience with plot research and/or farm-scale equipment.
  • Experience in preparing grant proposals and securing grant funds.
  • Experience supervising staff involved with field research.
  • Evidence of positive producer interactions.

Commodity crop familiarity, effective verbal and written communication skills, collaborative nature, field management knowledge in the Great Plains.

• Cover letter addressing each of the minimum and preferred qualifications.
• Complete Curriculum Vitae.
• A research plan (maximum 3 pages) that includes how the applicant's experience and research philosophy will allow them to establish a successful research program at CREC, ideas for existing or potential funding, and areas of potential collaboration.
• Three professional references with contact information.

Screening will begin: 3/25/26.

The Carrington Research Extension Center is one of seven out-state NDSU Research Extension Centers. CREC is located near Carrington, North Dakota, in a region with diverse agricultural production. For more information visit the official site.

Full-time employees are eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement contributions, time away, and education benefits as described by the institution. Specific details are provided by Human Resources.