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Research Specialist in Weed Science with University of Minnesota in UMN St. Paul campus (Twin Cities)

Type of position Full-time
Employer University of Minnesota
Description of Employer The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.
Location UMN St. Paul campus (Twin Cities)
Salary $47,000 – $52,000/Year, commensurate with education and work experience
Benefits At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

– Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
– Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship
– Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
– Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
– University HSA contributions
– Disability and employer-paid life insurance
– Employee wellbeing program
– Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
– Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
– Financial counseling services
– Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website (https://humanresources.umn.edu/questions-about-employment/benefits-summaries) for more information regarding benefits.

Closing date of competition Open until filled
Date position available Immediately
Description of duties

The successful candidate will help the Weed Science program at the University of Minnesota in field-based research activities that include but are not limited to field site preparation, planting, spraying herbicides and other pesticides, data collection, preparing reports, soil sampling, and harvesting. The operation and maintenance of farm machinery such as tractors, planters, combines, and sprayers, etc. are expected. The candidate will work with Dr. Debalin Sarangi and the graduate students, and help them in their research projects. This job requires working in an outdoor environment with varying weather conditions and with an occasional requirement of lifting heavy bags/containers of seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals. The candidate will acquire/maintain certification in the appropriate Minnesota Pesticide Applicator categories.

Job Duties:
– 40%: Coordinate and establish complex multi-step field research experiments and demonstration plots, apply treatments, collect data and process experimental samples. Operate, maintain, and calibrate equipment necessary to carry out research.
– 25%: Manage trial data with appropriate software, analyze data and tabulate and/or graph results and write comprehensive data summaries conferring with project supervisors and industry cooperators.
– 15%: Consult with supervisors and industry personnel to plan research trails including required personnel and station resources, experimental design and methods, specific
equipment and other supplies.
– 15%: Hire and supervise up to three undergraduate research assistants and assist with the training of graduate students.
– 5%: Manage a website for Weed Science research projects.

Qualifications sought

Required qualifications:
– B.S. degree in Weed Science, Crop Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or other related fields with two years of relevant experience, as defined below or a combination of education and work experience to equal six years
– Experience in field research techniques, and project management
– Experience using the computer and basic software and applications (emails, MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, etc.)
– Effective verbal and written communication skills
– Commitment to the work of equity, diversity, inclusion, and a strong cultural competence

Preferred qualifications:
– Previous experience in Weed Science, Agronomy, or other related fields
– Experience in small-plot field research, data collection, and basic data analysis using a statistical software
– Experience with social media and in website designing and maintenance
– Experience in operating farm equipment such as tractors, sprayers, and combines
– Experience in herbicide and pesticide applications, handling, and sprayer calibration
– A valid US driver’s license
– Ability to lift, carry, and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs., if needed

Contact for additional information Dr. Debalin Sarangi, Assistant Professor in Weed Science, at 612-625-8130 or [email protected]
Application procedure  
Submit what Application must include the following: (1) Curriculum vitae, (2) One-page statement describing your experiences and qualifications required for this position, (3) Unofficial transcripts, (4) Names and contact information for three professional references
Submit to Applications must be submitted online. https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/347573
Job ID: 347573
To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.
Additional Information Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu.

Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University’s Administrative Policy: COVID-19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit: https://safe-campus.umn.edu/return-campus/get-the-vax