RESEARCH SPECIALIST SR
University of Missouri - Columbia (MU)
Columbia, MO
Full-time
Research
Posted on April 26, 2024
Hiring Department
Department of Plant Science & Technology
Job Description
The Research Specialist – Rice will work in the Rice Agronomy research and extension program with Dr. Justin Chlapecka, in cooperation with other Delta Center faculty, the Missouri Rice Research and Merchandising Council (MRRMC), industry partners, and on-farm cooperators. The position is grant funded and will be housed at Portageville in Southeast Missouri. Frequent (at least once per week) travel to the Missouri Rice Research Farm west of Malden and grower fields will sometimes be necessary with provided transportation.
The successful candidate will be responsible for helping lead the rice research program, including creating and carrying out research plans, performing basic analyses via SAS/ARM/Excel, and creating data reports for clientele based upon provided protocol for individual projects. Supervision of seasonal workers (mostly students) will be a key component of this position. The busiest times of year for the program are typically planting (March-May), harvest (September-October), and post-harvest processing (October-December). General hours are 7:30 am – 4:00 pm, but some overtime may be required during peak time periods.
The ideal candidate will possess a balance of being able to collect and manage data carefully, yet efficiently. Training for all necessary job components will be provided directly, although experience with field-based research is preferred and will be reflected in beginning compensation. Starting pay will be based upon education, experience, and skill set. The candidate will have the opportunity to assist in writing technical and extension-based articles and present research findings at local, state, and national meetings.
Please feel free to contact jchlapecka@missouri.edu with any questions about this position.
Shift
Monday through Friday; 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.
Preferred Qualifications
A Master's degree with completed thesis in a plant science related field is strongly preferred. Preferred skills include familiarity with the MS Office Suite (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint), SAS, and ARM. Key job requirements are data management and analysis, as this is a more lab/office based position. Field work will be necessary at times, including assisting with planting, harvest, and in-season data collection.
Anticipated Hiring Range
Salary Range: $51,875 - $60,000 per year.
Grade: GGS-9E
University Title: Senior Research Specialist
Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.
Application Materials
Cover letter, resume or CV, 3 letters of recommendation, unofficial transcript(s).
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website athttps://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.
Values Commitment
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.
In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visithttps://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeoor call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.
