Research Scientist I - Crop Performance

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Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA) is a nonprofit organization designated by Chapter 177 in the Iowa Legislature as the official seed certifying agency in Iowa. The association is composed of member companies and individuals who are actively engaged in the seed industry and are committed to advancing seed and crop improvement. ICIA operates through two primary programs: seed certification and crop performance testing.

The Research Scientist I will provide direct support to the crop performance testing group. This branch conducts the official variety trials for the state, known as the Iowa Crop Performance Tests (ICPT). The role involves contributing to and supporting all phases of the trialing program. A successful candidate will be a motivated self-starter, capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team. The candidate must also manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks effectively, and meet deadlines while consistently delivering exceptional results. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential for success in this role.

The position includes responsibilities such as assisting with seed inventory management and preparing seeds for planting; collecting, recording, and delivering research data; and implementing research protocols, including UAV remote sensing methods. The candidate will contribute to experimental design, database management, and statistical analysis, and will collaborate with a diverse team of researchers and farmer cooperators to ensure accurate data reporting. Additional responsibilities involve monitoring and overseeing machinery and property maintenance and repair, developing new methods and programs to improve efficiency, diagnosing and remedying crop and weed pressure problems, and hiring, training, and managing hourly student employees and seasonal contract workers.

As the oldest and one of the most prominent yield trial organizations, ICIA is among the five largest in the nation and plays a significant role in advancing agricultural research and development. This hands-on role is incredibly rewarding and meaningful, as you'll directly help farmers make informed decisions that affect their livelihoods. With large University endowment, ICIA also funds multiple scholarships for Iowa State students each year, supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders. Join our team and play an essential role in an evolving field of agriculture.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

Level Guidelines
Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision
Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode
Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope
Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained
Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate
May lead projects of limited scope and complexity
May provide guidance to students

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Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on Apply and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program

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