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Form of workPosition Function:The Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute is seeking to hire a full-time Research Associate to manage water-centric research in Mississippi agricultural systems. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate interested in investigating how precision agriculture and fertility management can be manipulated to improve runoff water quality, production stability, and resource use efficiency.Salary Grade: 13Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.Department Profile:Located on the campus of Mississippi State University, the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute administers and coordinates research and outreach programs dealing with water and related resources. It is one of the state institutes authorized by Section 104 of The Water Resources Research Act of 1984.
Its activities are developed in close consultation and collaboration between the Institute and leading water resources officials within the state.The program's purpose is to provide a coordinated research and development program that contributes to the solution of water and water-related land use problems in Mississippi, the region, and the nation.Area of Specialization:Agronomy, Water Quality, Precision Agriculture, FertilityEssential Duties and Responsibilities:This individual will be responsible for 1) implementing and managing multiple small-plot and on-farm research experiments, 2) supervising personnel assisting in the research, including graduate students, undergraduate students, and intermittent workers, 3) ensuring quality management in the timely fulfillment of experimental requirements and objectives, 4) collecting, queueing, and analyzing data, and 5) other responsibilities as assigned. Travel to research locations, conferences, or other meetings will be required.Minimum Qualifications:1. Beginning with a bachelor's degree:a.
A professional employee with a bachelor's degree and demonstrated competence can begin work at the Research Associate I level.b. To begin at the Research Associate II level, one must have a bachelor's degree and a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience and the equivalent of a master's degree.2. Beginning with a master's degree:a.
A professional employee with a master's degree and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience and demonstrated competency can begin work at the Research Associate II level.Rank and salary will be commensurate with the education and/or experience of the candidate.Preferred Qualifications:A Master's degree is highly preferred.Additional Desirable Qualifications:1. A substantial understanding of experimental design and plot layout.2. Analytical experience in a laboratory.3.
Interest in precision agriculture and the desire and ability to learn new and emerging technologies.4. Able to operate and maintain various farm equipment.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:The successful candidate is expected to have significant knowledge of scientific and research methodologies, particularly as it relates to agricultural research at various scales. The candidate must be able to develop and employ experimental protocols and procedures.
The candidate should have experience in agricultural research, including knowledge of experimental design, plot layout, and agronomic principles. This person must be able to work autonomously and in a team. Excellent communication, supervisory, and management skills are imperative.Instructions for Applying:Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/Qualified persons must apply online to receive consideration.
The application package must include 1) a cover letter to highlight qualifications and relevant experience, 2) a resume, and 3) names and contact information for three professional references.Restricted Clause:Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.What do I do if I need an accommodation?In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
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