The research agronomist has leadership responsibility for developing, implementing, and reporting outcomes of the agronomy research program at the North Central Research Extension Center. The agronomy program includes a broad scope of projects that address factors limiting crop production for the diversity of crops grown in North Dakota. The scientist actively participates in the development and implementation of field research projects that include research in crop inputs, crop pest management, plant nutrition, cultivar evaluation, cover crop systems, and new technologies. The agronomist is expected to compete successfully for extramural funding to assist in funding the diverse research program. The successful candidate is expected to coordinate and collaborate with other NDSU, regional, and national project leaders on joint research projects appropriate for the Center; analyze and disseminate information from research programs; participate in outreach efforts; interact closely with farmers, extension staff, agribusiness representatives, and crop commodity organizations. The agronomist has supervisory responsibilities for support staff and reports to the Center Director. This is a permanent, non-tenure track position, but includes opportunities for promotion.

The North Central Research Extension Center is one of seven out-state NDSU research extension centers. The NCREC is located one mile south of Minot, ND. Minot is a city of 50,000 in north central North Dakota. Minot is an All-American City with excellent health, educational, recreational and community facilities and a modern international airport. The area is noted for small grain, oilseed, livestock and energy production. More information is available at: https://minotchamberedc.com/

For additional information, please feel free to contact Dr. Shana Forster, NCREC Director at shana.forster@ndsu.edu. To apply please go to the following site: https://www.ndsu.edu/employment/

Please submit the following documents:

• Cover letter addressing how you meet the minimum and preferred qualifications
• Complete Curriculum Vitae
• A research plan (maximum 3 pages) that includes how the applicant’s experience and research philosophy will allow them to establish a successful research program at NCREC, ideas for existing or potential funding, and areas of potential collaboration
• Three professional references with contact information

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in agronomy or a closely related field with experience leading an applied field research program; documented evidence of preparing research proposals; proof of success in obtaining extramural funding; and evidence of strong collaborations and on-going research with other research leaders, departments, and agencies. The candidate must possess a working knowledge of the diversity of crops grown in North Dakota; experience in the operation of small plot research and farm-scale equipment; ability to work extended days; documented experience in field plot designs and statistical analysis; and evidence of effective written and verbal communication skills along with ability to deliver information via modern media technologies. A valid driver’s license and commercial pesticide applicators license (or ability to obtain).

Preferred Qualifications

Ph.D. in agronomy or a closely related field; documented experience in production agriculture research related to production agriculture, especially experience in Northern Great Plains crop production research and extension programs; training and/or experience in field research related to crop management, input evaluations, pest management, plant nutrition, crop germplasm evaluations, cropping systems, and alternative crops; documented experience through active collaboration with scientists of other disciplines of agriculture (plant pathology, soil science, animal science, entomology, ag engineering, weed science, etc.); and experience in the supervision of multiple staff involved with field research.

About North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University is distinctive as a student-focused, land-grant, research university. Our main campus is located in Fargo, ND with Extension and Research Extension Center locations across the state. The North Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station (NDAES) research goals are to find solutions and discover opportunities that enhance the quality of life, sustain food, feed, fiber and fuel production, and protect the great land and resources of North Dakota. NDAES researchers work interactively on applied, basic and advance research that contributes to the mission. NDSU is an ADVANCE institution and Carnegie High Research Activity Institution. NDSU is an EEO/AA-MF/ Vet/ Disability Employer.

Connections working at North Dakota State University