Research Associate

MSU Jobs•Verona, MS

10h•Onsite

About The Position

The research program at the Northeast MS Branch Experiment Station focuses on developing sustainable/profitable management strategies for the Mississippi agronomic crops industry. This Research Associate position will support research at the station. The incumbent is expected to work closely with the research team to satisfy the goals and expectations of funded projects. Areas of emphasis are agronomy production (fertility, weed management, plant physiology), soil health (cover crops, organic amendments), and variety selection for production. Salary Grade : 13 Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department. Department Profile: The North Mississippi Research and Extension Center (NMREC) is one of four Research and Extension Centers in the MSU System. The NMREC is located in Verona, MS. Branch experiment stations included in the NMREC are the Northeast Mississippi Branch Experiment Station (Verona, MS), Pontotoc Ridge-Flatwoods Branch Experiment Station (Pontotoc, MS), Prairie Research Unit (Praire, MS), and the North Mississippi Branch Experiment Station (Holly Springs, MS). Area of Specialization: Plant Sciences. Anticipated Appointment Date: April 1, 2026.

Requirements

The candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in plant sciences or closely related field.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Salary will be commensurate with the education and/or experience of the candidate.
Knowledge of scientific approach and methodologies.
Ability to develop and follow research methodology and protocol.
Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of agronomy.
Knowledge of scientific research principles, practices, and protocols.
Ability to design, organize, and coordinate scientific research projects.
Knowledge and field/laboratory skills to work in sustainable agricultural practices
Computer skills for data analysis (MS Excel, SAS) are also expected.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with faculty, staff, growers, industry representatives, and the general public.
Ability to work collaboratively within a team and independently is essential.

Nice To Haves

Master of Science in plant sciences or related field.
A valid Class A Commercial Driver's License or willingness and ability to obtain this license is desirable.
Field and laboratory work experience beyond the minimum required.
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Previous experience operating farm equipment.
Desire to seek further educational degrees closely related to the scope of work.

Responsibilities

Assists faculty, staff, and/or students with research and/or projects.
Maintains accurate and timely records related to farm and research operations.
Plans, coordinates, and conducts scientific research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard scientific techniques.
Applies an analytical approach to the solution of a wide variety of problems, or applies specialized techniques or ingenuity in selecting and evaluating approaches to unforeseen or novel problems.
Demonstrates and applies thorough understanding of scientific methods, research protocols, assessment instruments, and data interpretation.
Designs, performs, and/or oversees experiments and data collection to ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs, as appropriate to the specific position; prepares manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication; presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.
Independently performs most research assignments with instructions as to the general results expected; receives guidance on unusual or complex problems.
Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
Summarizes and presents research results at producer/grower field days and scientific meetings.
May lead, guide, and train staff/student employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
Operates farm equipment.
Assists with land preparation, planting, cultivating, crop protection, fertilizing, harvesting and transportation of row crops.
Manages and maintains property inventory reporting.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.