Research Professional 6 - Forage Agronomist

Position Summary
The Researcher6 contributes advanced expertise in forage agronomy and sustainable crop-livestock systems to support ongoing research programs within the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics. The position conducts field, greenhouse, and laboratory research; analyzes complex agronomic and soil datasets; and develops science based recommendations that advance understanding of forage productivity, soil health, and nutrient cycling. The role collaborates closely with faculty, research staff, and students and contributes to extension related outputs through research translation and stakeholder engagement. This is a full time, 9 month appointment.

Responsibilities
Research 70-85%

• Design and conduct field experiments in forage and perennial cropping systems, including studies on forage accumulation, nutritive value, root development, and system resilience.
• Collect and analyze agronomic, soil, and forage data using advanced analytical, statistical, and modeling approaches.
• Implement research methodologies such as ingrowth core root sampling, greenhouse gas measurement techniques, nutrient cycling assessments, and forage quality evaluations.
• Contribute to interdisciplinary research teams in agronomy, soil science, animal science, and agroecology to address complex challenges in forage based systems.
• Prepare research summaries, technical reports, and manuscripts for peer reviewed publication.
• Maintain accurate research records, data documentation, and compliance with research protocols.

Extension Related Research Translation 10-20%

• Develop research based materials that support outreach to agricultural stakeholders, including producers, consultants, and agency partners.
• Contribute to field days, workshops, and presentations by sharing research findings in accessible, applied formats.
• Assist in preparing producer oriented content such as fact sheets, articles, and digital resources.

Mentoring and Collaboration 5-10%

• Provide research guidance and day to day support to undergraduate and graduate students working on forage systems projects.
• Contribute to collaborative lab and field team environments by offering technical expertise and methodological support.
• Participate in project team meetings, interdisciplinary discussions, and collaborative planning sessions.

Required Qualifications

• Advanced degree.in agronomy, animal science, agroecology, soil science, or a closely related field.
• Substantial research and publication record consistent with advanced expertise in forage or crop-livestock systems.
• Demonstrated experience conducting field, greenhouse, and/or laboratory research in forage or perennial cropping systems.
• Experience analyzing complex datasets and applying advanced statistical or modeling approaches.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D.
• Experience with forage systems research involving alfalfa, perennial crops, or managed grazing systems.
• Experience measuring soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics, greenhouse gas emissions, or nutrient cycling.
• Experience contributing to extension or producer focused outreach materials.
• Experience mentoring students in research settings.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary research teams.

The Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics has 25 faculty members with strength in breeding, genetics/genomics, biotechnology, agronomy/agroecology, weed science and crop physiology. Faculty research programs are focused on improvement of traditional and emerging crops and developing agronomic practices for crops that are of key importance to agriculture in the upper Midwest and beyond. Faculty in the department are members of the Applied Plant Sciences, Plant and Microbial Biology, and other graduate programs. The faculty teach in the Plant Science and Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture interdepartmental undergraduate programs and the Applied Plant Sciences graduate program.

Pay Range: $97,000 annually, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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