Research Assistant II

The Weed Science program in the Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences Department at Michigan State University is seeking a highly motivated individual to work as a member of the weed science research program. This position will support research and extension efforts in understanding weed biology in Michigan field crop production systems and developing weed control recommendations for corn, potatoes, and forages. The individual will work as a member of a team including professors, research assistants, graduate, and undergraduate students.  The individual will conduct and coordinate field, greenhouse, and laboratory research data collection, statistical analysis, and presentation of results. This is a multifaceted position that includes field, greenhouse, laboratory, and data analysis/management responsibilities.

• Plot layout and design
• Herbicide mixing and application
• Operation and maintenance of equipment
• Soil preparation
• Crop planting, fertilizing, and harvesting, data collection, and statistical analysis. 

• Research study design
• Crop/weed planting and maintaining, 
• Herbicide mixing and application, 
• Herbicide dose response assays, 
• Plant growth and physiology measurements,
• Seed dormancy testing, and data collection and analysis. 

Additional duties include the purchasing of supplies and assisting in the procurement of research equipment.

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Weed Science, Agronomy, Crop and Soil Sciences or related science field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The position requires special licensing or certification in obtaining a Michigan Commercial Pesticide applicators license within 3 months of employment.

Experience in growing field crops Experience in growing weeds and crops in the greenhouse and laboratory.
Ability to conduct statistical analysis with Agricultural Research Manager (ARM) and R software programs.
Demonstrated proficiency in operating field, greenhouse, and laboratory research equipment.
Effective verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
Experience with Word, Power Point, and Excel computer program.

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

CV/Resume

Name and contact information for Three (3) Professional References 

Inquires about position can be directed to Dr. Erin Burns (burnser5@msu.edu)

STANDARD 8-5

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

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

Lifting: Fertilizer & Seed bags weighting approximately 30-50lbs from Floor, Waist, and Chest to Above Machine Parts weighting approximately 30-50lbs from Floor, Waist, and Chest to Above

Carrying: Fertilizer & Seed bags weighing approximately 30-50lbs a distance of 20 feet Machine Parts weighting approximately 30-50lbs a distance of 20 feet

Pushing/Pulling: Pallets of Fertilizer Seed Bags and machine parts weighing approximately 1000lbs a distance of 50 feet using a pallet jack

Climbing: Climbing a latter carrying seed bags, fertilizer bags, and parts weighing approximately 50lbs 

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.

• Wear a respirator (does not include paper dust mask worn for comfort).
• Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides.
• Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.

Advertised: Jun 10, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Jun 23, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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