Digital Ag Innovation LabSenior R&D Engineer - Application Technology Program Lead

Senior R&D Engineer – Application Technology Program Lead

Digital Agriculture Innovation Lab at Iowa State University

If you love application technology
, thrive in an environment with real‑world testing
, and want your work to directly shape how products are applied in the agriculture—this role is for you.

The Digital Agriculture Innovation Lab at Iowa State University is hiring a Senior R&D Engineer – Application Technology Program Lead to lead advanced,
industry‑focused research programs in spray and application technology—while enjoying the benefits, and balance of a university setting.

• ✅
  Industry projects – Every project you’ll lead is driven by industry partners
  —OEMs, ag input companies, and technology developers—focused on deployable solutions, not academic exercises.
• ✅
  Hands‑on leadership in application technology – You’ll guide innovation across liquid and dry application systems
  , including herbicide, fertilizer, seed, targeted spraying, and ground and aerial (including drone) platforms
  .
• ✅
  From concept to prototype – This role spans TRL 3 to TRL 7, translating early‑stage ideas into validated system prototypes through lab testing, field trials, and performance benchmarking.
• ✅
  Innovative team, proven impact – You’ll work alongside a highly collaborative team with a strong track record of translating research into real‑world impact and licensed technologies.
• ✅
  University benefits + balance – Get the pace and relevance of applied industry R&D with the perks of a university benefits—top tier benefits, professional growth, and a people‑first culture.

• Lead research, testing, and performance evaluation of spray system components (nozzles, pumps, flow control, PWM technologies)
• Direct experimental programs in targeted and variable‑rate spraying and precision delivery systems
• Design and execute benchmarking studies under real operating conditions
• Oversee lab and field test infrastructure for spray characterization and droplet analysis
• Connect engineering parameters (pressure, droplet size, speed, duty cycle) to biological efficacy and input‑use efficiency
• Supervise and mentor engineers, research scientists, and graduate students
• Manage multi‑year, industry‑funded programs—timelines, budgets, milestones, and reporting
• Develop Statements of Work and manage research contracts with partners
• Lead high‑impact education, training, and outreach in application technology

• Bachelor’s degree + 8 years of related experience
• Deep background in application technology or sprayer systems
• Experience with field trials, on‑farm testing, or system benchmarking
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams across engineering and agronomy
• A technical leader who enjoys mentoring and seeing technology adopted in the field

Digital Ag is a welcoming, high‑performing team that values innovation, learning, and practical impact. The work is varied, collaborative, and designed for people who want to lead applied R&D that truly matters
.

Work authorization: U.S. work authorization required

📅
Open until filled

🔗 Learn more and apply: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). ( PS813)

If you’re excited about leading agricultural application innovation projects—without sacrificing balance or benefits
, we’d love to hear from you.