Visiting Research Scientist – Plant/ Crop Scientist-2179

Langston University; Oklahoma; On-site; USD 42,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in the United States is seeking a research scientist to conduct studies in plant breeding, physiology, and sustainable agriculture practices. Responsibilities include managing agricultural trials, developing recommendations, and collaborating with industry and educational sectors. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or master's degree in a related field and demonstrate a strong passion for community service and teamwork. This position offers opportunities for growth and development.

Qualifications

• Experience in field and greenhouse plant production is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Make horticultural/agronomic-related decisions regarding plant production activities.
• Develop, conduct, and evaluate tolerance for species at seedling stage.
• Understand farmland conditions and farming challenges.
• Evaluate products and collect performance data.
• Prepare documented proposals for research trials.
• Manage trial establishment and collect data.

Skills

Passion for work

Ability to learn quickly

Optimistic attitude

Desire to serve people and communities

Teamwork

Education

PhD or master's degree in plant breeding, biotechnology, plant pathology, agronomy, crop science, soil science, biology

Job description

Campus

LANGSTON

Contact Name & Email

Nika Wilson, [e-mail]

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm with occasional evenings and weekends.

Appointment Length

Regular Continuous/Until Further Notice

Hiring Range

$42,000 - $45,000

Commensurate with education and experience

Priority Application Date

While applications will be accepted until a successful candidate has been hired, interested parties are encouraged to submit their materials by to ensure full consideration.

Special Instructions to Applicants

For full consideration, please include a resume, cover letter and contact information for three professional references.

About this Position

The successful candidate will conduct research in plant breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops, fruit trees, and nursery stock under both greenhouse and field conditions. Study soil–plant interactions to optimize fertility and nutrient cycling, while designing sustainable production systems that incorporate crop rotations and cover cropping to enhance yields and maintain ecological balance. Play a key role in extension education to ensure that research findings are translated into farmer-friendly practices and that future generations are trained in sustainable agriculture.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for making horticultural/agronomic-related decisions regarding plant production activities.
• Develop, conduct, and evaluate tolerance for species at the seedling stage of plant growth.
• Understand the farmland (ground conditions, farming challenges, pest issues).
• Evaluate products, collect data on performance in various locations, and make recommendations to management on new plant hybrid releases and position hybrids in their most favorable environment.
• Regularly communicate with relevant industry sectors and educational institutions to initiate well-targeted research projects.
• Prepare documented proposals and successfully establish research trials.
• Manage trial establishment and collection of data.
• Budget for research work and provide management reporting regarding trial/research progress.

NOTE: Although experience is a desired quality for this position, what is even more important is an expressed passion for work, the ability to learn quickly, an optimistic attitude, a desire to serve people and communities, and the ability to be an ultimate teammate. In this regard, the position offers exceptional growth opportunities for early- to mid-career professionals and fosters collaborative work.

Required Qualifications

• A PhD or master's degree in plant breeding, biotechnology, plant pathology, agronomy, crop science, soil science, biology, or a related field is preferred. (degree must be conferred on or before agreed upon start date)
• Experience in field and greenhouse plant production.