Research Assistant - Agronomy

TITLE: Research Assistant Agronomy

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Community and the Sciences

REPORTS TO: Principal Investigator                  

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

LOCATION: On-Site-Main Campus

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Research Assistant Position in The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences at Kentucky State University would serve as a support person for the research or extension program and will participate in research duties specific to the objectives of the proposal funding sources. The position supports the experimental and agronomic research components of funded projects, including field, laboratory, and environmental monitoring using eddy covariance; drone deployment and geospatial analysis; and social research actively assisting with data collection, analysis, reporting, and the dissemination of findings through publications, presentations, and progress reports.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead and investigate experiments examining carbon dynamics of reclaimed mined lands in Eastern Kentucky as part of the Appalachia Renewal Project using the Eddy Covariance flux tower.
• Manage, maintain, and collect data from eddy covariance (flux tower) installations in Martin County, Eastern Kentucky, including routine field checks, sensor troubleshooting, and continuity assurance.
• Lead soil sampling campaigns across Kentucky and nearby Mesonet stations to support soil carbon model development under the 1890 Multi-state Climate and Long-term Agroecosystems Research projects.
• Lead in designing, implementing, and maintaining laboratory, field, and greenhouse experiments supporting the Soil Health Group in accordance with project protocols and safety standards.
• Perform laboratory and field experiments, including soil sampling, sample preparation/processing, and relevant chemical/physical measurements as required by project objectives.
• Collect, enter, manage, and analyze datasets related to soil, water, sediments, and erosion using SWAT and other analytical/modeling tools; support interpretation of results.
• Support socio-economic research components of interdisciplinary projects as assigned (survey support, coding/cleaning, descriptive/inferential analysis) and integrate findings with biophysical outcomes for reporting.
• Apply QA/QC procedures to ensure validity and reliability of results; identify outcomes that exceed tolerances, document corrective actions, and maintain reproducible workflows.
• Maintain complete and accurate records (field logs, laboratory notebooks, metadata/data dictionaries, and organized digital project files); maintain inventory and keep laboratory spaces clean, safe, and orderly.
• Review up-to-date scientific literature to support method selection, interpretation, and development of ongoing, proposed, or emerging research activities.
• Analyze data from experiments and integrated components as assigned; prepare publication-quality graphics, maps, tables, and text for manuscripts, presentations, extension materials, and sponsor reporting.
• Assist in developing progress reports, technical summaries, and grant-support materials aligned with sponsor requirements and project timelines.
• Assist with maintenance of research infrastructure, including greenhouses, farm facilities, and field sites as needed; demonstrate ability to work independently in farming/research activities and contribute effectively to team-based projects.
• Train, supervise, and mentor research assistants and graduate, undergraduate, and high school students supporting thesis, capstone, practicum, and project-based research.
• Facilitate and conduct informational talks, tours, and outreach at field days, stakeholder meetings, and professional events.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of eddy covariance principles and ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a flux tower and meteorological sensors.
• Ability to process, quality check, and manage large GHG and micrometeorological datasets using appropriate methods and software.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and visualization, producing publication-ready tables, figures, and graphics for reports and manuscripts.
• Ability to use GIS, remote sensing, and tools such as SWAT, including integration of multiple data sources.
• Knowledge of lab, field, and greenhouse research methods, including experimental setup and implementation.
• Social and socio-economic research knowledge is an advantage, including survey support, data coding and cleaning, and basic analysis.
• Ability to search and synthesize scientific literature for research planning and interpretation.
• Knowledge of QA and safety standards, including safe handling procedures and compliance requirements.
• Ability to operate and maintain lab and field equipment and follow project protocols.
• Strong technical writing for progress reports, summaries, and sponsor deliverables.
• Strong communication and teamwork, with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Strong organization and record keeping, including documentation and inventory control.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility. 

OTHER DUTIES: 

• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

 QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Licensing and Certifications:

• FAA Part 107 certified for sUAS drone flights, or the ability to maintain certification.
• Valid Driver’s License and ability to travel locally for fieldwork as needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to travel, primarily in-state (30%).
• Occasionally may need to move light equipment and carry supplies, publications, and needed equipment for demonstration and training programs.
• Ability to carry objects over 50 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Laboratory environment; may have regular exposure to biological, radiation, chemical, and mechanical hazards, vapors, fumes, and temperature variations.
• Some positions may include regular exposure to hazards associated with biological and chemical research.
• May work outside in adverse weather conditions.
• Work involves considerable exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.