Research Assistant

Research Assistant   

Location: Maricopa, AZ

Full-Time

Salary Range – $44,000 – $50,000 per year; DOE

We are on a mission to make the earth green again by stopping and reversing desertification and soil degradation. Our patented technology, Liquid Natural Clay (LNC), is at the forefront of this effort, transforming degraded land and sand into fertile soil, reducing water usage by up to 50% for agriculture, trees, and green ecosystems.

Position Summary: We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Soil Research Assistant to join our team. This position will be instrumental in conducting cutting-edge research focused on soil and water conservation, management, and the interaction between plant biology and environmental sustainability. The Research Assistant will work closely with a team of scientists and researchers to collect and analyze data, perform laboratory and greenhouse experiments, and contribute to the overall success of the research program.

Responsibilities:

1- Data Collection and Analysis:

• Assist in the collection and analysis of soil and water samples from field sites.
• Conduct laboratory analyses of soil and water samples, including physical, chemical, and biological tests.
• Compile and organize collected data for analysis, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail.

2- Fieldwork and Experimental Setup:

• Set up and monitor field experiments specifically designed to test the efficacy of LNC on various crop types.
• Document fieldwork activities, ensuring detailed records of experimental treatments and their impacts on soil and plant health.

3- Greenhouse and Laboratory Management:

• Manage greenhouse operations.
• Prepare and standardize solutions and reagents for both greenhouse and laboratory experiments.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols in the handling and disposal of materials.
• Maintain and care for crops grown within the greenhouse.
• Contribute to the overall organization and cleanliness of the greenhouse and laboratory space.

4- Research and Reporting:

• Assist in writing detailed technical reports for communication to Desert Control headquarters in Norway.
• Contribute to the dissemination of research results through white papers, peer review publications, presentations at conferences and workshops.
• Prepare procedures for greenhouse and laboratory experiments.

Qualifications and abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in Crop and Soil Sciences, Turfgrass Sciences, Agriculture, or related field with a strong focus on plant-soil-microbe interactions.
• Proven experience in managing greenhouse experiments and familiarity with soil sensors. 
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting with an understanding of statistical software such as R, and GIS tools.
• Experience in fieldwork and laboratory techniques related to crop & turf management and soil-water interactions.

·      Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

• Excellent organizational and communication skills. 

Additional Notes:

• The role may require some overnight travel within Arizona and California and flexibility for evening and weekend work as necessary.
• Monday through Friday, generally 8 am – 5 pm dependent on organizational needs.
• Reliably commute or planning to relocate to Maricopa, Arizona (zip code: 85138) before starting work.
• License/Certification: Driver’s License (Required).  
• This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities and qualifications for the Soil and Water Research Assistant position. It may be subject to change or modification based on organizational needs and priorities. 

We believe this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that has a real impact on environmental sustainability. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. We value your unique background and perspective, and you may be just the right candidate for this position or other roles on our team. 

Additional perks and outstanding benefits, which include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; sick leave and holidays; 401k and more. 

Relocation Assistance is not available for this role. 

Background Check and Drug Screen. 

Desert Control conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a drug screen, criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the drug screen and background check. 

ABOUT DESERT CONTROL:

Desert Control specializes in climate-smart AgTech solutions to combat desertification, soil degradation, and water scarcity. Its patented Liquid Natural Clay (LNC) restores and enhances soil ecosystems to reduce water usage and improve the efficiency of fertilizers and natural resources for agriculture, forests, and green landscapes. LNC enables sandy and arid soil to retain water and nutrients, thus increasing crop yields, plant health, and ecosystem resilience while preserving water and natural resources by up to 50%.

Desert Control’s vision is making earth green again.

Video explainer about LNC: https://vimeo.com/desertcontrol/lncexplainer

Learn more:

• https://www.desertcontrol.com
• http://linkedin.com/company/desertcontrol
• https://twitter.com/desert_control
• https://www.facebook.com/desertcontrol
• https://www.instagram.com/desert_control