Research Associate – Integrated Weed Ecology and Management with Montana State University – Bozeman in Bozeman, Montana

The Research Associate will be expected to coordinate activities with supervisors (Dr. Jane Mangold and Dr. Fabian Menalled) to accomplish the objectives of the Weed and Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Program in close communication but often with minimal supervision in conducting various tasks. Research sites will occur across Montana with the hub of activity originating in the Gallatin Valley near MSU. Occasionally, due to travel across the state and/or during field season (approximately May through October), long days will be required to perform time-sensitive weed management operations. Ability to acquire strong operational skills for small to medium-sized tractors, pesticide sprayers, tillage equipment, seeders, small-scale plot harvesters, and other farm and range management equipment is required. Basic mechanical skills are a key asset. Accurate data capture is required for a wide range of crops and rangeland plant communities in a variety of experiments. The ability to work with student researchers and supervise seasonal staff in accurate data collection and other routine field work is also required. Statistical analysis, report writing, and oral presentation skills are encouraged.

• Conduct experiments and trials as part of the Weed and Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Program in crop and rangeland systems in field, greenhouse, and laboratory environments
• Operate small to medium-sized tractors, ATVs, pesticide sprayers, seeders, tillage equipment, small-scale plot harvesters, and various other equipment associated with farm and range management
• Record all pertinent metadata related to management and environment conditions associated with experiments and trials
• Collect, summarize, and analyze treatment data from field, lab, and greenhouse experiments
• Contribute to annual reporting of herbicide efficacy and safe trials and other weed management studies
• Assist undergraduate and graduate student researchers in the Weed and Invasive Plant Ecology and Management Program
• Seasonally travel to research locations across Montana to plant, maintain and harvest research plots. Travel outside Montana may be required
• Assist with weed and invasive plant ecology and management teaching and Extension activities
• Interact with collaborators, stakeholders, and students in a professional manner.

Required Qualifications

1. B.S. in agronomy, environmental sciences, range ecology, related field, or equivalent experience
2. Potential to operate and perform routine maintenance on plot scale equipment
3. Demonstrated ability to work efficiently in Microsoft Office software, including Excel for data management

Preferred Qualifications

1. M.S. in agronomy, environmental sciences, range ecology or related field, or equivalent experience
2. Experience with production of dryland crops and rangeland common to Montana
3. Experience identifying plants in a variety of Montana plant communities from cropland to rangeland
4. Willingness to supervise undergraduate students for accurate data capture
5. Willingness to assist graduate students in their field, greenhouse, and laboratory activities