Position Function:
The primary project involves GHG (CO2, CH4, and N2O) data collection using LiCor survey chambers and multiplexed chambers at several on-farm locations in Mississippi, and harmonizing data collection with co-PIs at the University of Arkansas, Alcorn State University, crop consultants, economists, and modelers. Quarterly reporting to the USDA is required. There are opportunities to work on additional research projects, Extension programming, and teaching at the graduate and undergraduate levels.
Weekly planning meetings will provide guidance on critical tasks, including prioritization of tasks. Incumbent will work closely with our Research Associate and supervise interim workers, student workers, and graduate students. Travel to research and demonstration locations throughout Mississippi will be required. Occasional overnight travel may be required.
Salary Grade: UC
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:
Mississippi State University is Mississippi's senior comprehensive land-grant institution and has the largest on-campus enrollment (>22,000) of the eight state institutions of higher learning. All components of the university have a strong commitment to teaching, research, and service. The Department of Plant and Soil Sciences has 31 on- and 26 off-campus faculty members engaged in teaching, research, and extension and/or service programs, most of who carry joint appointments. The programs are supported by state-of-the-art laboratories, equipment, and trained support and professional staff. The department offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Agronomy, Horticulture, or Environmental Sciences in Agricultural Systems, with Master's or Doctoral graduate students concentrating in Agronomy, Horticulture, or Weed Science.
Area of Specialization:
Agronomy/Plant Science
Anticipated Appointment Date:
August 16, 2023.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Specific duties include, but are not limited to:
1. Procurement of equipment and supplies
2. Establishment, implementation, and maintenance of field, greenhouse, and laboratory research
3. Collect, record, and summarize research data and maintain records
4. Equipment operation, maintenance, and modification
5. Information dissemination, including USDA reporting
6. Maintain budgeting on the project
7. Publish in the peer-reviewed and Extension literature, and
8. Perform other tasks as necessary under the direction of the principal investigator.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Earned PhD in agronomy, soil science or related discipline.
Licensures: A valid US driver’s license. A Mississippi Pesticide Applicator’s license is required within 60 days of hire.
Preferred Qualifications:
1. Experience with GHG data collection and analyses
2. Experience with crop production
3. Grantsmanship experience
4. Budgeting experience
5. Supervision of personnel and mentorship of students
6. Ability to operate or maintain farm equipment
7. Pesticide license/certificate already obtained
8. Proven publication record
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Have a strong background in agronomy, soil science or related discipline.
2. Proven high impact publication record.
3. Experience in research management.
4. Statistical analysis skills.
5. Detail oriented and well organized.
6. Statistical analysis skills using R, SAS, or other appropriate methods
7. Ability to think critically, ask questions, and work well with others
8. A can-do attitude
9. Hands-on, common-sense approach to problem solving.
10. Excellent planning skills (weekly work schedules, research prioritization, etc.)
11. Detail oriented and well organized
12. Ability to work in all weather, particularly heat
13. Ability to occasionally lift 50-lb bags (e.g., fertilizer and seed)
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Exposure to heat and cold might be required. Heavy lifting might also be required. Travel to research and demonstration locations throughout Mississippi will be required. Occasional overnight travel may be required. Further discussion will be held in interview process.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
All applicants must apply online at www.msujobs.msstate.edu with the following information:
1. Cover letter explaining your interest in the position
2. Curriculum vitae
3. College transcripts (any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submission)
4. Contact information for 3 professional references
For inquiries, please contact Dr. Mike Mulvaney at mjm1166@msstate.edu.
Screening Date:
August 8, 2023 until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
