Research Assistant

The Agronomy Department at Kansas State University is looking for a Research Assistant to work on field and laboratory research projects investigating cover crop and fertilizer management effects on water quality, erosion, nutrient loss, and soil health. Research will take place at the Kansas Agricultural Watershed field laboratory (www.ksu.edu/kaw) and on producer farms and will be used to develop best management practices for soil conservation and nutrient management. This individual will work closely with faculty, research staff, graduate students, undergraduate students, and producer cooperators. Duties include: collect and process water, soil, and plant tissue samples; maintain automated water samplers; download, organize and manage data from automated water samplers; supervise undergraduate employees; and conduct and coordinate field operations associated with crop production on experimental plots.

Our faculty and staff are leading the charge in groundbreaking research and technology for agriculture. By combining classroom, lab, and field experiences, we encourage learning and knowledge across disciplines. Join us and help move agronomy into the future.

This position is required to be performed on-site. Work is performed on employer premises or designated assignment location.

Minimum Qualifications:

• B.S. Degree in Agronomy, Soil Science or related field.
• Experience in field and laboratory research related to soil, water and plant sciences.
• Effective oral and written communication skills in English, excellent organizational skills, impeccable attention to detail, ability to work effectively with a diverse team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• M.S. degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, or related field.
• Experience in supervising employees; experience with operation of farm equipment, experience in collection and analysis of water samples, experience with crop production, experience with operation of automated environmental data collection systems.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

Please submit the following documents with application:

1. Letter of interest
2. Resume
3. Transcripts for all post-secondary education
4. Contact information of three professional references

Please contact Nathan Nelson at nonelson@ksu.edu or 785-313-3889 with questions about the position or application process.

Screening begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.

$45,000 - $65,000