POSITION VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
Rank and Nature of Position: Assistant/Associate Professor; 12-month tenure track appointment. The position is 80% research and 20% extension. The individual will be a faculty member of the LSU AgCenter Northeast Region. Opportunities for research and extension activities exist at three research stations in the Northeast Region.
Work Location: Tom H. Scott Research and Extension Center, Winnsboro, LA
Position Description: The irrigation agronomist will be responsible for establishing a research and extension program surrounding irrigation strategies to optimize crop production and resource use efficiency. This position will conduct research and deliver extension programs that help producers develop and implement efficient irrigation plans and monitor and adjust irrigation schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture levels, and crop requirements tailored to specific crops and soil types in the Northeast Region. The successful candidate is expected to conduct soil and water quality assessments to inform irrigation practices and to conduct research on crop rotation, cover cropping, and other agronomic practices to enhance water use efficiency and crop productivity in addition to utilizing advanced technologies, such as remote sensing and GIS, to monitor crop health and irrigation performance. The individual will collect and analyze data on crop growth, yield, and water usage to refine irrigation practices; prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders; stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in irrigation technology and agronomy; conduct field trials and research projects to evaluate new irrigation methods and products; collaborate with research institutions, industry partners, and government agencies on irrigation-related initiatives; provide training and technical support to producers, extension agents, crop consultants, and other stakeholders on best irrigation practices; and develop educational materials and conduct workshops to promote sustainable irrigation and water management. The position requires publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals, extension publications, and other scientific and technical outlets, including commodity-based websites, blogs, and newsletters. Securing extramural funding from federal and state agencies, commodity research boards, and agricultural industries is essential. The successful candidate will work closely with the regional director and other research and extension faculty to ensure that their programs align with the mission of the LSU AgCenter. Ongoing professional development through association with professional societies and attendance at national and international conferences is expected. The successful candidate will be expected to manage personnel and equipment resources. Farm crew activities are directed by the research station research coordinators and farm managers, with whom the candidate will need to coordinate activities. This position reports to the Northeast Region Director.
Qualification Requirements: Ph.D. in Agronomy, Plant Science, Soil Science, or other appropriate agriculture-related field is required. Experience in irrigation systems, water management principles is required with an emphasis in crop physiology or soil science highly desirable. Proficiency in using irrigation management tools, such as soil moisture sensors, weather stations, and irrigation controllers is needed. Good interpersonal skills and leadership abilities are required for working effectively with diverse professional and lay audiences and cooperators. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively (orally and in writing) with diverse audiences including scientific peers, clientele, and agribusiness representatives. Development of scholarly (peer-reviewed) articles and educational curricula/programs for appropriate publications/journals and other outlets, including LSU AgCenter numbered publications, is required for professional development.
Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Current benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, Employee Assistance Program, and possible educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.
Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.
Application Deadline: October 4, 2024, or until a suitable candidate is identified.
Application Procedure: Apply online at https://lsu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/LSU (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching a single PDF file containing a letter of application, curriculum vita, official university transcripts, and three letters of reference. Paper, faxed or e-mailed application materials will not be accepted, except that in lieu of attaching the reference letters online, they may be sent directly to:
Dr. Melissa Cater
Northeast Region Director
212-B Macon Ridge Road
Winnsboro, LA 71295
Telephone: 318-435-2903
Email: mcater@agcenter.lsu.edu
Web site: www.lsuagcenter.com
The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer.
