Turfgrass Research Scientist — Field & Lab Innovator

Genesis Distribution; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University’s Department of Horticulture in Ames seeks a Turfgrass Research Scientist to advance a nationally recognized turfgrass program focused on athletic field safety, golf course management, and sustainable turf practices.

The role blends outdoor fieldwork, lab work, data analysis, and collaboration with faculty, students, and industry partners to improve performance and management of athletic fields, golf courses, parks, and other managed turf systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field.
• Experience establishing and managing turfgrass research plots and irrigation management.
• Experience operating turfgrass or agricultural equipment.
• Experience collecting, managing, and analyzing research data.
• Experience applying crop protection products per protocols and regulations.
• Experience presenting findings and supporting outreach activities.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute applied turfgrass field research by preparing research sites, implementing protocols, scheduling field activities, and overseeing student employees.
• Establish, maintain, and evaluate turfgrass research plots through mowing, irrigation management, fertilizer and pesticide applications, and cultivation practices.
• Collect, document, and manage data including plant and soil samples, turfgrass quality and color ratings, weed assessments, soil moisture, and surface hardness and stability testing.
• Assist in developing methods and protocols, maintain research databases, perform data quality control, and conduct statistical analyses.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to support research projects, publications, grants, demonstrations, and outreach.
• Present research findings at field days, conferences, and industry meetings; prepare educational displays and tours.

Skills

Turfgrass research

Field research

Data analysis

Equipment operation

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or related field

Job description

Iowa State University’s Department of Horticulture in Ames seeks a Turfgrass Research Scientist to advance a nationally recognized turfgrass program focused on athletic field safety, golf course management, and sustainable turf practices.

The role blends outdoor fieldwork, lab work, data analysis, and collaboration with faculty, students, and industry partners to improve performance and management of athletic fields, golf courses, parks, and other managed turf systems.