Research Specialist - Agroforestry

Position Summary:

This position requires a highly motivated and creative individual capable of working in a fast-paced interdisciplinary natural resources management laboratory. The individual will work in environments including but not limited to the office, laboratory, greenhouse, and high tunnel, field, and forest. This position will also involve coordinating and facilitating activities pertaining to several grant-funded projects. Duties will include project planning, grant writing, training and mentoring students, staff, and interacting with community members during programming. This position requires the applicant to have a valid driver's license and be able to transport other employees and students in a Lincoln University vehicle.

Essential Functions, Duties, and Responsibilities:

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Plan, manage, and conduct project activities for the Forestry and Natural Resources Management Laboratory, including agroforestry field research in forest farming, alley cropping, and silvopasture.
• Collect, analyze, and prepare data for detailed reports and presentations.
• Write and edit grant proposals, project budgets, and reports to secure additional external funding.
• Organize and lead extension events, including Forest Farming Workshops and field days.
• Keep detailed and orderly notes on all project work.
• Prepare and publish peer-reviewed research articles.
• Maintain laboratory facilities, order project supplies, and assist in managing budgets.
• Supervise graduate and undergraduate students during project work activities.
• Ensure all safety guidelines are followed in the laboratory and field.
• Engage with community members, students, farmers, and fellow researchers to build new working relationships.
• Collaborate with fellow LU employees, outside researchers, and community stakeholders to achieve research objectives.
• Communicate research findings at prominent conferences throughout the United States.
• Develop and disseminate LU guides and factsheets.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must be able to develop a work schedule and plan for self, team, and others assigned to projects.
• Must be able to use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and other programs to coordinate and facilitate project activities.
• Must be able to work some weekends and extended hours if necessary.
• Willing to travel to off-campus research facilities, participate in conferences, and visit partnering institutions.
• Must have effective communication skills.
• Willingness and ability to work in a team-oriented environment with a diverse group.
• Have knowledge of field, greenhouse, and laboratory management and operations.

Education and Experience

• At a minimum, a master's degree in agriculture or a closely related field.
• Experience with project management and facilitation.
• Experience leading small teams is preferred.
• Experience with grant writing is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to work in cold and hot environmental conditions.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities. duties, functions, or responsibilities required by the employee. Duties, responsibilities, functions, and activities may be modified, changed, or assigned new duties at any time with or without notice, subject to all applicable local, state, and federal laws.

Current Openings for Research Specialist Agroforestry Jobs at Lincoln University of Missouri