Research Associate

Position Function:

Under general supervision, employs a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures in a particular field of specialization to plan, coordinate, and conduct research.

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:

Coastal Plain Branch Experiment Station consists of 1,175 acres located east of Newton in Newton County, a matrix of agricultural, pasture, and forest lands. The CPBES is one of three MAFES Branch Experiment Stations that fall under the leadership of the Central Mississippi Research & Extension Center. Research at this location focuses on agro forestry and natural resource conservation. Research at this location also includes agronomic research in forages, conservation crops, and bio-energy crops being assessed for production in Mississippi. This location maintains numerous acres of pasture and a small beef herd.

Area of Specialization:

Agronomic Crops and Beef Cattle Production

Anticipated Appointment Date:

August 2026. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Plans, coordinates, and conducts scientific research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard scientific techniques.
2. 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.
3. Demonstrates and applies thorough understanding of scientific methods, research protocols, assessment instruments, and data interpretation.
4. Designs, performs, and/or oversees experiments and data collection to ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
5. Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs, as appropriate to the specific position; prepares manuscripts for publication; presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.
6. Independently performs most research assignments with instructions as to the general results expected; receives guidance on unusual or complex problems.
7. Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
8. Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
9. 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.
10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in related discipline.
- A valid driver's license.

Rank and salary will be commensurate with the education and/or experience of the candidate.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Experience in animal husbandry and farm practices beyond the minimum requirements.
- Experience with plot research and peer reviewed manuscripts and publications.
- Interest in pursing advance degrees closely related to the scope of work.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

- Knowledge of scientific approach and methodologies, including research principles,
practices, and protocols.
- Ability to develop and follow research methodology and protocol.
- Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of expertise.
- Basic knowledge of statistical analysis and experimental design.
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Computer literacy in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and statistical analysis software (SAS or SPSS).
- Experience with animal husbandry, including sorting, weighing, and health protocols.
- Experience with the operation of farm equipment, including tractors, plot combines, etc.
- Mississippi Herbicide Applicator's license
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.