Research Associate

Job Description

The research associate (RA) will facilitate the testing of experimental corn hybrids in northwestern Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota. The candidate will be required to have knowledge in the operation and maintenance of field research equipment, computer hardware and software and will be responsible for the collection of high quality data for research center experiments. The RA will help coordinate and supervise research center staff and resources to meet research center deadlines and goals. The RA will participate in all breeding activities including pollinating, stalk/root screening, and managing part time staff.

Duties/Responsibilities

Operates and maintains complex field research equipment including tractors, planters, irrigation equipment and combines. Inspects and performs routine maintenance on sophisticated research equipment used to conduct experiments. Ability to diagnose or repair research equipment helpful.

Assist with breeding program activities including seed preparation for planting, pollinating and combine harvest. These are critical times for the success of the breeding program and weekend work will be required during these times. 

Support day to day research effort by implementing experimental protocols and collecting data. Knowledge of general agronomic practices and herbicide application will be important. The RA will be responsible for field site selection, experiment set-up and mapping, data collection using Microsoft Office and Pioneer proprietary software, as well as utilizing GPS and GIS.

Provide leadership and training for part-time staff as well as promote a safe work environment. All tasks will be performed in a safe manner according to research center safety programs. RA will serve as site coordinator for selected safety programs.

Education and Experience Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural science or related field and 2 to 4 years of field research experience or relevant amounts of education and experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as math and computer skills.
• Self-motivation and ability to initiate projects, improvements, decisions and problem solving.
• Operation and maintenance of sophisticated research equipment.
• Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook), along with mainframe and handheld PC experience.
• Agronomic knowledge of modern cultural practices including herbicide knowledge and application, tillage, crop scouting and problem identification and solving.
• Certified Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain.
• Class A Commercial Drivers License or ability to obtain.
• Ability to lift 60 lbs, adapt to varying ergonomic conditions, and work outside during hot and cold weather.