Research Assistant I

The Cropping Systems Agronomy program (Cropping Systems Agronomy) in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University is hiring a Research Assistant I. The overarching program goal is to develop agronomic recommendations for corn, soybean, and winter wheat-based cropping systems. This position will support research and extension activities of the program. Primary duties of the position include management of field trials, data collection, program resources, and communication with stakeholders. Specific responsibilities and expected time commitment include:

• Safe operation and maintenance of laboratory and field equipment.
• Purchase and keep an accurate inventory of supplies and equipment.

12 month s from date of hire; renewable annually subject to performance and continuation of funding

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Sciences, or other related science fields; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in managing field crops, operating and maintaining field research and farm equipment, standard laboratory procedures and safety requirements, and performing analytical and research techniques in an area related to research being performed; Proficiency with Microsoft Office computer programs, organization and maintenance of research data or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators license is required within six months of hire.

• Experience working in a team environment and managing shared resources.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in conducting field trials and communication of results to stakeholders.
• Proficiency in operating and repairing field research equipment with auto-guidance and variable rate technologies.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Cover Letter

Resume/CV

Names and contact information for Three (3) professional References 

Address any specific questions about the position and cover letter to Dr. Manni Singh (msingh@msu.edu) To attract as many interested applicants as possible, there will be multiple opportunities to apply to this position on, https:// careers.msu.edu/cw/en-us/listing/ . To keep updated on the windows of opportunity to apply, please inquire with the PSM HR Team (PSM.HR@msu.edu) Review of applications will begin August 24, 2026 and continue until a suitable candidate is found.

STANDARD 8-5

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with renewal possible contingent upon funding.

https://www.canr.msu.edu/psm/

Lifting up to 50lbs of the following from floor/waist height (15Min on average )

seed bags, fertilizer, and equipment parts

Carrying up to 50lb of the following a distance of 50 feet (15 Min on average)

Carrying seed and fertilizer bags

Pushing/Pulling  (15 Min on average

Carrying seed and fertilizer bags

Climbing (10 Minutes)

Climbing ladder/stair with bags of seed or fertilizer

Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides

Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.

Drive a university vehicle that does not require a commercial driver’s license but does require medical

certification:

• VEHICLES:
• Have a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds.
• COMBINATION VEHICLES:
• Having a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds.

Advertised: Aug 12, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Sep 10, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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