Student Research Assistant - Plant and Soil Sciences

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

A public research university in Lexington, Kentucky is seeking a Student Research Assistant in Plant and Soil Sciences. This part-time role offers students hands-on experience in agricultural research, focusing on crop physiology and sustainable practices. Responsibilities include assisting with field studies, collecting data, and organizing research materials. Ideal candidates are undergraduate students interested in agronomy or related fields, comfortable working outdoors. The position is open until filled and may extend through the summer or into December 2026.

Qualifications

• Students encouraged to apply should have an interest in agronomy or sustainable agriculture.
• Familiarity with Kentucky agriculture or regional cropping systems is a plus.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field and laboratory research at the University of Kentucky.
• Collect agronomic and environmental data and prepare plant and soil samples.
• Organize datasets and contribute to sustainability-focused projects.

Skills

Interest in agronomy

Basic knowledge of crop physiology

Comfortable working outdoors

Education

Currently enrolled undergraduate student

Job description

Job Title

Student Research Assistant - Plant and Soil Sciences

Requisition Number

DU14492

Department Name

81060:PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCES

Work Location

Lexington, KY

Salary Range

Varies

Type of Position

Student

Position Time Status

Part-Time

Required Education

N/A

Required Related Experience

N/A

Required License/Registration/Certification

As required by supervisor.

Physical Requirements

As required by supervisor.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (up to 20 hrs/wk). During the semester, as availability allows

Job Summary

Opportunity: Are you a student in Kentucky interested in agriculture, sustainability, and hands‑on field research? Join the Grain Crops Ecophysiology Lab at the University of Kentucky (https://salmeronlab.weebly.com/) in Lexington. This is a great opportunity to gain practical experience working with cropping systems relevant to Kentucky and the broader region, including soybean‑based systems and diversified grain production.

General description and key responsibilities: We are seeking an undergraduate assistant researcher to support ongoing field and laboratory research. Responsibilities include assisting with experiments conducted at the University of Kentucky research farms, collecting agronomic and environmental data, preparing plant and soil samples, and helping organize datasets. Research activities focus on key challenges in modern agriculture, including improving crop productivity, resource‑use efficiency, and sustainability. Projects emphasize crop physiology, soil–plant interactions, and innovative practices such as intercropping and diversified crop rotations. Students will gain valuable experience working outdoors, collaborating with a research team, and contributing to projects with direct relevance to agriculture in Kentucky and beyond.

Expected qualifications: Students with an interest in agronomy, crop physiology, environmental science, or sustainable agriculture are encouraged to apply. Familiarity with Kentucky agriculture or interest in regional cropping systems is a plus. Applicants should be comfortable working outdoors in varying Kentucky weather conditions (heat, humidity, dust, and allergens).

Location

Based on the University of Kentucky main campus in Lexington, with fieldwork conducted at University of Kentucky experimental research farms.

Appointment and start date

These positions are open as soon as available until filled. Fulltime and part‑time positions are available. Appointments may extend through the summer or continue through December 2026, depending on availability and performance.

Please contact Montse Salmeron ([e-mail]) if you have any questions.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

This is a temporary position with Plant and Soil Sciences. The position will be under the supervision of a department faculty or staff member to perform lab or field research as directed by supervisor or Graduate Research Assistant.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

No

Preferred Education/Experience

Students with an interest in agronomy, crop physiology, environmental science, or sustainable agriculture are encouraged to apply. Familiarity with Kentucky agriculture or interest in regional cropping systems is a plus. Applicants should be comfortable working outdoors in varying Kentucky weather conditions (heat, humidity, dust, and allergens).

Deadline to Apply

05/30/2027

Our University Community

We value the well‑being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.