Research Assistant I

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University in East Lansing is seeking a Research Assistant I to support crop research programs focused on corn, soybean, and winter wheat systems. The role includes managing field trials, data collection, and communicating progress to stakeholders.

Responsibilities cover day-to-day project management, data entry and analysis, and supervision of student employees, with travel to Michigan field sites and collaboration across extension activities.

Qualifications

• Experience managing field crop trials and data collection.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data organization.
• Ability to communicate updates to stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day management of research projects.
• Assist with data collection and research samples using project-specific protocols.
• Oversee data entry, organize data files, and prepare data for analysis.
• Assist with data analysis and report writing.
• Assist staff with field preparation, in-season crop management, and harvesting of research trials.
• Travel to various Michigan field site locations as needed.
• Regular updates to program website and social media accounts.
• Coordinate hiring, training, and supervision of student employees.
• Maintain laboratory and field equipment and inventory.

Skills

Field trial management

Data collection

Data analysis

Reporting

Communication

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Summary

The Cropping Systems Agronomy program (Cropping Systems Agronomy) in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University is hiring a Research Assistant I. The overarching program goal is to develop agronomic recommendations for corn, soybean, and winter wheat-based cropping systems. This position will support research and extension activities of the program. Primary duties of the position include management of field trials, data collection, program resources, and communication with stakeholders. Specific responsibilities and expected time commitment include:

30% Project management.

• Oversee day to day management of various research projects.


• Assist with collection of data and research samples using project-specific protocols.


• Oversee data entry, organize data files, and prepare data for analysis.


• Assist with data analysis and report writing.

20% Field research activities.

• Assist staff with field preparation, in-season crop management, and harvesting of research trials.


• Travel to various Michigan field site locations as needed.

20% Communication with stakeholders.

• Regular updates to program website and social media accounts.


• Communication with cooperators on research and extension activities.

20% Training and supervision of employees.

• Aid in hiring, training, and supervision of student employees.


• Coordinate employee safety trainings and maintain records.

10% Management of program resources.

• Safe operation and maintenance of laboratory and field equipment.


• Purchase and keep an accurate inventory of supplies and equipment.

Appointment Basis

12 month s from date of hire; renewable annually subject to performance and continuation of funding

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Sciences, or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in managing field crops, operating and maintaining field research and farm equipment, standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements, and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; Proficiency with Microsoft Office computer programs, organization and maintenance of research data or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators license is required within six months of hire.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in a team environment and managing shared resources.


• Effective verbal and written communication skills.


• Experience in conducting field trials and communication of results to stakeholders.


• Proficiency in operating and repairing field research equipment with auto-guidance and variable rate technologies.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description Of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with renewal possible contingent upon funding.

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/psm/

Summary Of Physical Demands

• Lifting up to 50lbs of the following from floor/waist height (15Min on average )


• seed bags, fertilizer, and equipment parts


• Carrying up to 50lb of the following a distance of 50 feet (15 Min on average)


• Carrying seed and fertilizer bags


• Pushing/Pulling (15 Min on average


• Carrying seed and fertilizer bags


• Climbing (10 Minutes)


• Climbing ladder/stair with bags of seed or fertilizer

Summary Of Health Risks

• Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides


• Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.


• Drive a university vehicle that does not require a commercial driver’s license but does require medical

Certification

• VEHICLES:
  
  
  
  • Have a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds.
  
  
  
  


• COMBINATION VEHICLES:
  
  
  
  • Having a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds.