Full-Time Agroecology Scientist | University of Minnesota, St. Paul

Position Description: A Junior Scientist position is available on the cropping systems team in the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics at the University of Minnesota in St. Paul beginning in February of 2016. The selected applicant will be a member of an exciting, driven, and diverse research team.

Responsibilities: Junior Scientist responsibilities include working with researchers, technicians, and graduate students on small-plot agronomic field research, including fertilization, harvesting, and collecting plant and soil samples. Additional responsibilities will include drying, weighing, and processing plant and soil samples, analyzing samples in a laboratory, photography of field and laboratory research, supervising undergraduate student and temporary employees, managing research projects, data entry, and other related duties. Daily working hours may vary during peak season.

Qualifications: A successful candidate must have the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, have accountability for assigned tasks, and good organizational skills. The position requires a valid Minnesota driver’s license and the ability to transport a team and/or equipment to rural, off-campus locations to conduct field research. At least two years of experience working in agricultural research or on a farm is desired. A Bachelor’s degree in a life science field, lab skills, and previous team management preferred.

Required:
€   Ability to work independently and as part of a team
€   Accountability for assigned tasks
€   Exceptional organizational skills
€   A valid Minnesota driver’s license
€   Ability to transport a team and/or equipment to rural, off campus locations

Preferred:
€   Bachelor’s degree in a life science field
€   At least two years of experience working in agricultural research or on a farm
€   Previous team management
€   Laboratory skills
€   Experience working with chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides
€   Data management skills and experience in Microsoft Excel

Application: Attach letter of application, resume, and an additional document with the name, address, telephone number, and email address of three professional references. For questions and additional details about the position, please contact:
M. Scott Wells
Assistant Professor, University of Minnesota Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics 411 Borlaug
Hall, 1991 Upper Buford Circle Saint Paul, MN 55108
Phone: 612-625-3747
Email: mswells@umn.edu
Website: http://z.umn.edu/forages