Description

The soil scientist, which is a 100% research appointment, has leadership responsibility for developing, implementing, and reporting outcomes of the soil science research program at the Center. In addition, the scientist will lead the soils research program at CREC and serve within the broader soil health research groups within NDSU. The scientist actively participates in the development and implementation of research projects that address the soil resource and develop applied solutions to regional agricultural concerns. Research activity will include defining soil fertility regimes for optimum crop nutrition, prevention and mitigation of soil salinity, soil management impacted by residue and tillage systems, and work on other outreach and research efforts related to reducing erosion and depletion of topsoil. The soil scientist is expected to compete successfully for extramural funding to assist in funding the diverse research program. The successful candidate is expected to coordinate and collaborate with other NDSU, regional and national project leaders on joint research projects appropriate for the Center; analyze and disseminate information from research programs; participate in outreach efforts; interact closely with farmers, extension staff, agribusiness representatives and crop commodity organizations. The soil scientist also has supervisory responsibilities for support staff and reports to the Center Director.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• A PhD or currently obtaining your PhD in soil science or closely related field.
• Knowledge and experience working with applied research related to soil fertility, salinity, health, conservation, and/or management.
• Documented experience in experimental design and analysis.
• Familiarity with Northern Great Plains cropping systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to deliver information via modern media technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to foster and maintain strong collaborations with other researchers, extension personnel, and stakeholders.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Documented collaborations with scientists of other disciplines of agriculture (agronomy, plant pathology, animal science, entomology, precision agriculture, weed science, etc).
• Documented experience in production agriculture across a diversity of crops
• Operation of plot research and/or farm scale equipment.
• Documented experience in preparing grant proposals and success in securing grant funds.
• Experience in the supervision of staff involved with field research.
• Evidence of positive producer interactions.

Core Competencies:

Commodity crop familiarity, effective verbal and written communication skills, collaborative nature, field management knowledge in Great Plains

Applicant Materials Required:

• Online application
• Cover letter addressing each of the minimum and preferred qualifications
• Complete Curriculum Vitae
• A research plan (maximum 3 pages) that includes how the applicant’s experience and research philosophy will allow them to establish a successful research program at CREC, ideas for existing or potential funding, and areas of potential collaboration.
• Three professional references with contact information

About Us:

The Carrington Research Extension Center is one of seven out-state NDSU Research Extension Centers. The CREC is located near Carrington, a community centrally located about two hours or less from each of the four largest cities in North Dakota. Carrington is a thriving community of approximately 2,500 people in a widely diversified agricultural production region of east central North Dakota. Carrington is a vibrant rural community with progressive schools (K-12), modern medical services (clinic and hospital), and recreation opportunities including hunting, fishing, hiking, and birding. For further information visit http://www.carringtonnd.com/.