Post-Doctoral Research Associate

Post-Doctoral Research Associate

Recruitment began on January 25, 2025

and the job listing

Expires on July 25, 2025

Full-Time

We are seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral research associate to conduct research and extension programs on irrigation water and soil nutrient management practices on productivity and soil health in vegetable cropping systems. In addition, the successful candidate will be expected to contribute and assist with controlled environment hydroponic research trials. This is a two-year USDA/NRCS grant funded project involving East Texas A&M University and Texas A&M AgriLife Dallas Center. The position is based at the Plant Science Center at East Texas A&M in Commerce, TX.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Job Duties

Design, set up drip-irrigated experimental plots for the evaluation of the effects of different irrigation scheduling methods and nitrogen rates on tomato and bell pepper production, nitrate leaching, root distribution

Design, conduct experimental plots on cover crops effects on soil health indicators, carbon sequestration, nutrient retention and weed suppression

Use lab and field equipment (gas exchange analyzer, chlorophyll fluorescence, soil/root/plant sensors, etc.), and data loggers

Conduct research under controlled environment and protected cultivation systems (vertical indoor farming, growth chambers, greenhouse, high tunnels)

Perform statistical data analysis, and draft manuscripts for publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals

Present research findings at grower's field days, workshops and/or horticultural professional societies conferences

Supervise graduate and undergraduate students and other lab, technical and field personnel involved in research

Assist PI and co-PIs to ensure projects quarterly and annual reports are delivered on-time

Assist in grant proposal writing

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

PhD degree in horticulture, agronomy, soil science, plant physiology, or closely related discipline

Familiarity with appropriate laboratory and/or technical equipment in environmental plant physiology, including leaf gas exchange system, soil moisture sensors and data loggers,

Demonstrated track-record of research productivity and publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.

Proficiency in SAS or R and multivariate analyses (Principal Component Analysis) techniques.

Experience presenting research findings at national conferences.

Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, with strong interpersonal abilities to communicate effectively cross-culturally.

Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others

Excellent organizational skills

Ability to effectively communicate with faculty, students, staff and growers

Ability to drive and travel independently or in groups

Preferred qualifications: Previous research experience in soil and field-grown vegetable cropping systems involving different irrigation scheduling methods and fertilizer rates. Experience in the measurement of photosynthetic, growth and root traits. Proficiency in publishing high impact peer-reviewed journal articles.