Research Associate Life Science II

Research Associate Life Science II

Below you will find the details for the position. To apply for the position please click the Apply link.

Posting Number: S14822P

Posting Date: 03/06/2026

Closing Date: Proposed starting date: 04/01/2026 (Open until filled)

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science and 2 years of professional experience.

• PhD degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Crop Science, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience conducting field- and laboratory-based soil fertility or nutrient management research.
• Experience with applied agricultural research, data management, and interpretation of soil and plant analytical results.
• Experience working with extension, grower, or stakeholder-facing programs is preferred.

The position supports applied research and extension activities focused on soil fertility, nutrient management, and soil health in Georgia’s major agronomic crops. The Research Associate will independently design and coordinate field and laboratory-based research activities, manage soil and plant sampling protocols, ensure data quality, and analyze and interpret results to support science‑based recommendations. In addition to research responsibilities, the position plays a key role in translating findings into extension outputs, including publications, presentations, and decision‑support materials for growers, extension agents, and industry partners.

The position also contributes to development of external grant proposals and aligns research objectives with funding priorities. This role includes regular collaboration across research, extension, and stakeholder networks and represents the soil fertility program in professional and public‑facing settings.

• Advanced knowledge of soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and soil management principles in agronomic cropping systems.
• Ability to independently design, implement, and troubleshoot research protocols across multiple locations and cropping systems.
• Strong analytical skills, including data quality control, statistical interpretation, and synthesis of research results.
• Ability to integrate research findings into practical recommendations and extension materials.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for scientific, extension, and stakeholder audiences.

• Work extended hours in field settings under hot and humid conditions.
• Travel long distances occasionally.
• Lifting and handling of field equipment.
• Driving as needed to perform job duties.

Research and Field Work (60%)

• Conduct literature reviews and analyze current research findings on plant nutrition, soil fertility, and nutrient management best practices.
• Develop user‑friendly extension and outreach materials—including fact sheets, presentations, infographics, and digital content—to communicate scientific information to growers, educators, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with faculty, specialists, and field agents to translate research data into practical recommendations for agricultural producers.
• Collect, organize, and summarize field trial results to support evidence‑based nutrient management guidance.
• Maintain and update educational resources to reflect emerging research, regulatory changes, and industry trends in soil fertility management.

Grant and Publication Activities (20%)

• Identify grant opportunities that align with program goals and prepare required application materials, including narratives, budgets, timelines, and supporting documents.
• Draft, edit, and format competitive grant proposals to ensure clarity, compliance, and alignment with sponsor guidelines.
• Coordinate with faculty, administrators, and project teams to gather project details, cost estimates, and letters of support.
• Maintain organized records of grant submissions, deadlines, reporting requirements, and funding outcomes.
• Draft, edit, and format manuscripts for submission to peer‑reviewed journals, ensuring clarity, scientific accuracy, and adherence to publication guidelines.
• Compile and interpret research data, tables, and figures…