Research Fellow: Conservation & Water-Efficient Cropping

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education; Parlier (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) is offering a research opportunity with USDA ARS in Parlier, CA focusing on water scarcity and crop production in California's San Joaquin Valley. The program engages in hands-on field and laboratory work under mentors to study soil–plant–water interactions and irrigation strategies.

The appointment is full time, with a stipend of $75,055.00 – $92,958.00 yearly, starting December 1, 2026. U.S.

Qualifications

• PhD in environmental/soil/plant sciences or closely related field.
• Strong background in soil–plant–water interactions and water management.
• Experience with field or laboratory sampling and use of sensors is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collect soil, plant, and water samples under guidance.
• Monitor soil moisture with sensors and collect data.
• Organize and process research data; contribute to modeling efforts.
• Assist in evaluating irrigation technologies and cropping systems.

Skills

soil science

agronomy

environmental science

plant science

hydrology

Education

Doctoral degree in a relevant field

Tools

R

Python

Job description

Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) is offering a research opportunity with USDA ARS in Parlier, CA focusing on water scarcity and crop production in California's San Joaquin Valley. The program engages in hands-on field and laboratory work under mentors to study soil–plant–water interactions and irrigation strategies.

The appointment is full time, with a stipend of $75,055.00 – $92,958.00 yearly, starting December 1, 2026. U.S.