Specialty Crops Research Assistant Research Assistant I

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive organization, which requires all staff to contribute towards a vision for success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to our work, regardless of title or position within the organization. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:

We work together to ensure that programming is delivered to diverse audiences, produces equitable impacts for all participants, and demonstrates partnership and inclusion for all groups.

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POSITION SUMMARY

Assists in overseeing and coordinating field operations, assists in planning and designing research, conducts experiments and field sampling, and analyzes resultant data as part of completing projects.

As part of Michigan State University Extension (MSUE), the Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute (AABI), and the West Central Tree Fruit and Vegetable Extension programs, this specialty crop focused research assistant position will collect, analyze, and communicate information about Michigan’s specialty crop systems related to asparagus, other vegetables, and tree fruit crops in West Michigan and will work cooperatively with public and private agencies, organizations, and individuals to inform and guide decisions that impact horticultural practices, water and nutrient management, and integrated pest management (IPM).

The mission of the West Central Tree Fruit and Vegetable Extension programs is to guide the commercial specialty crops growers and industry and community partners in West Central Michigan by providing the highest quality scientific expertise and information. Our vision is to be the authoritative source of information on horticultural practices, water and nutrient management, and IPM that is widely used to manage specialty crops for current and future generations. Weekly pest and disease monitoring and timely reporting of critical information for commercial tree fruit industry and research experiments are essential components of the West Central MSU Extension programs. In addition, relevant research and experiments to address ongoing and emerging challenges are critical to the success of the commercial tree fruit and vegetable industries. This ongoing research is used by specialty crops growers, local and state agencies and private organizations to guide land management and production decisions.

As the MSU Extension Specialty Crops Research Assistant, you will assist with programming and research projects supporting the commercial vegetable and tree fruit industries. The position will be based in Hart, MI and will cover the West Central Michigan region. Projects mainly fall under the disciplines of horticulture, entomology, and plant pathology.

You will be responsible for assisting with development and execution of projects related to commercial vegetable and tree fruit production. Specific tasks will include lab, field, and office work, such as flagging trees, collecting field data, checking insect trap lines and plant phenology, identifying insects microscopically, processing fruit and vegetables, entering data, generating reports, reviewing research literature, and interacting with growers. Suitable applicants must understand basic scientific research (experimental design, basic analysis, and reporting), as you will be responsible for planning and conducting field experiments and research. You will utilize aerial photographs and GIS to classify vegetation and conduct field inventories and provide technical assistance and training on commercial vegetable and tree fruit production. You will also be responsible for recruiting, training, and directing seasonal staff, as well as maintaining relationships with growers, researchers, and stakeholders.

The proportion of time devoted to primary tasks will vary annually according to project requirements and individual interests but will generally consist of substantial field data collection during the growing season (40-60% of year), data management and analysis (15-25% of year), and non-scientific and scientific writing and communication (15-25% of year).

There will be space available to work from the Oceana County MSU Extension office and the West Central Michigan Research and Extension Center in Hart, Michigan

This position may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment, however, there is an expectation to work from a MSU Extension County office. The needs, responsibilities, and opportunities of an individuals position and office location drive the ability and amount of work-location flexibility.

This is a full-time, end-dated appointment renewable annually based upon continued funding.

Characteristic Duties/Responsibilities

• Assists AABI and AgBio staff scientists in coordinating research, data management, and/or field operations.
• Performs experimental tests, assays, quantitative research, and ecological surveys, and records and analyzes results to provide conclusive data for research projects.
• Consults with research supervisor to assist in planning and designing experiments and surveys.
• Compiles and summarizes results and participates in preparing reports, manuscripts, and articles for publication.
• Acts as a resource person to internal and external individuals regarding research projects and experiments.
• Performs all field work necessary to conduct surveys and run experiments.
• Oversees the compliance with field and laboratory safety regulations and procedures.
• Reviews the work of other research technicians and student employees.
• Oversees field/laboratory needs and orders materials, supplies, and equipment.
• Operates, calibrates, and maintains laboratory/field instruments and equipment to ensure proper functioning, accuracy, and compliance with written specifications.
• Reads pertinent literature to maintain and expand knowledge of laboratory and field research methods and terminology.

Minimum Requirements

kKnowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in the specific field of research employment or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; may require software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge equivalent to that which would normally be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program
• One to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements.
• Proficiency in analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed.
• Ability to independently conduct long days of strenuous fieldwork under adverse conditions for prolonged periods of time throughout the State of Michigan including working in remote areas and difficult terrain.
• Ability to lift and carry research materials, equipment, etc. up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to orienteer, read maps, and navigate in remote areas.
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelors degree from an accredited institution in horticulture, entomology, and plant pathology or related field, earned by date of hire.
• Knowledge of Michigan agriculture and commercial vegetable and fruit production systems.
• Experience conducting field-based agricultural studies, especially those involving disease and pest monitoring, tree training systems, vegetable production, and crop load management.
• Understanding of standard field measurements (i.e., fruit counts, canopy development, fruit quality assessments, and tree diameter).
• Knowledge of and/or experience in plant care (i.e., pruning, weeding, training, hand thinning).
• Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Qualtrics, Zoom, Microsoft Office Suite, including use of word processors and spreadsheets, Adobe products, email/calendaring, distance technology, etc.) for day-to-day work, record keeping, reporting, team-based communications, and overall management.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, organizational skills, ability to complete tasks in a timely fashion, and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated drive and initiative, with proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities and tasks simultaneously.
• Self-motivated and curious with the demonstrated ability to work independently and complete tasks in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to travel in local and surrounding communities and long distances.
• Transportation is the responsibility of the employee.
• Demonstrated skills and professional development from the last five years related to cultural competency and inclusive excellence.
• Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.
• Ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams in an office or virtual environment, including the ability to serve in both leadership and contributory roles.
• Proven ability in establishing and working with a diverse network of constituents across race, color, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, and other differences to assist with project development and outreach.
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, knowledge, and use of appropriate approaches, skills, and techniques, which reflect an understanding and awareness of social, cultural, and economic diversity of the target population served.
• Commitment to sustainability, and respect for property ownership, scientific credibility, reliable data, and fiscal accountability.
• Prior experience or interest in learning how to perform work in support of external contract and/or grant requirements.
• Prior experience or interest in learning how to develop and maintain educational media and social media content
• May require valid operators license where needed to perform duties of this position.
• Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of this position.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

• Current resume/CV.
• Cover letter.
• Four (4) professional references including at least two (2) prior or current supervisors.

Work Hours

Generally 40 hours Monday through Friday, with some nights and weekends needed

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

Summary of Physical Demands

This position requires driving as a regular part of the position during the field season, carrying research materials, and equipment, etc. up to 50 lbs. This position will regularly and often independently conduct long days of strenuous field work under adverse conditions for prolonged periods of time throughout West Michigan and may travel to other parts of Michigan according to project needs including working in remote areas and difficult terrain.