About This Role:

The full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate will be an integral part of the Northwest Agronomy team at the Kansas State University Northwest Research-Extension Center, Colby, Kansas.  This individual will have leadership responsibilities for the day-to-day operations of multiple research projects that are focused on improving nitrogen use efficiency in dryland cropping systems and reducing nitrogen losses to N₂O greenhouse gas emissions and NH₃ volatilization.  These projects are part of a DOE supported SmartFarm project and a FFAR AgMission project.  This individual will take a lead role in the analysis and publication of data resulting from the many aspects of these projects while also being involved in field operations.

In addition, the individual will have the opportunity to become involved with a diverse set of projects that include corn, sorghum, wheat, dry beans/pulses, cotton, and other crops in the context of dryland and limited irrigation production systems.  Opportunities for involvement could include field operations and data collection, data processing and analysis, publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts, and grant submissions.

Expectations include self-direction and innovative problem solving; leadership; the ability to work independently and cooperatively (inter- and intradisciplinary); assisting the PI in writing grants, reports, peer-reviewed journal articles, and Extension publications; participation in professional, scientific meetings; identification and assessment of research problems; research planning and implementation, and dissemination of research findings at professional meetings, Extension outputs, and various media outlets.

Why Join Us:

This position offers a unique opportunity for a candidate to grow not only scientific skills, but to gain experience in a multi-disciplinary, off-campus environment working directly with farmers in developing improved management techniques; communicating science to practitioners through Extension; and gain experience in leading applied field research.

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion.  The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in soil fertility, agronomy, or closely related plant or soil science discipline
• Two years’ experience in soil fertility, agronomy, or closely related plant science discipline
• Experience in field research methods
• Good verbal and written skills in English,
• Experience in experimental design, data processing, QA/QC, statistical analysis, and presentation of data

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience or knowledge of Great Plains / High Plains agriculture
• Experience with mechanized field operations (planting, harvest, etc.)
• Experience in calibrating, validating, and using computer simulation models applicable soils and or crop production.

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
• Valid driver's license.

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Letter of interest
2. Resume or CV
3. Contact information of three professional references

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until the position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$47,476-$65,000

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans and actively seeks diversity among its employees.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.