Sustainable Livestock Data & Methane Research Assistant

Colorado State University; Fort Collins (CO); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Colorado State University’s AgNext unit seeks a Research Assistant to support data management and analysis across cattle housing, methane monitoring, and whole-farm simulations. You will collect, edit, and organize data from pasture and feedlot studies and assist with Python and R coding.

The role involves field outreach, sample collection, lab procedures, data quality control, and reporting under Dr. Diego Manriquez Alvarez.

Qualifications

• Must have high school diploma or GED.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, or related field is a plus.
• Experience working with livestock, agriculture, or applied research environments is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist with daily cattle monitoring, handling, and research pen management across pasture and feedlot systems.
• Collect, store, and manage environmental data.
• Assist with code development in Python and R for data analysis and whole-farm system simulations.
• Collect, record, and manage animal intake, performance, and methane emissions data using precision livestock technologies.
• Support feed sampling, ration preparation, bunk management, and laboratory analyses.
• Ensure accurate data entry, quality control, and help with field outreach activities and site visits as needed.

Skills

Data management

Data analysis

Livestock experience

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

Python

R

Excel

Job description

Colorado State University’s AgNext unit seeks a Research Assistant to support data management and analysis across cattle housing, methane monitoring, and whole-farm simulations. You will collect, edit, and organize data from pasture and feedlot studies and assist with Python and R coding.

The role involves field outreach, sample collection, lab procedures, data quality control, and reporting under Dr. Diego Manriquez Alvarez.