California State University, Fresno Foundation
RESEARCH ASSOCIATE –F3 FARMS-FOOD-FUTURE PROJECT
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT #25-682
Three full-time, benefited positions through the California State University, Fresno Foundation. The Farms Food Future (F3) Program stands at the forefront of agricultural technology innovation in California's Central Valley. Our work emphasizes the development of sustainable agriculture practices, the advancement of agriculture and food technology, and the creation of new market opportunities. Through close partnerships with industry leaders and community stakeholders, we aim to drive regional economic growth while promoting innovative solutions in the food sector.
F3 represents a collaboration between Fresno State, UC Merced, UC ANR, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Central Valley Community Foundation, regional Community Colleges, and community-based organizations. Funded by the US Department of Commerce's Build Back Better Regional Challenge Grant Program, F3 is dedicated to transforming food systems and driving innovation in California's Central Valley.
The Research Associate position involves comprehensive research support activities, including designing and executing research studies, managing data collection and analysis processes, and preparing detailed technical reports as well as contributing to peer reviewed publications and presentations. The role requires close collaboration with our partner institutions and active engagement with stakeholders throughout the food systems value chain. The successful candidate will engage in R&D activities with a goal to enhance the technology readiness level of the outcomes, contribute to grant proposal development and support ongoing funded projects. Laboratory and field research responsibilities include maintaining research equipment, ensuring proper documentation of procedures, and implementing research protocols. They will play a vital role in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, providing guidance and support for research activities fostering their development as future thought leaders in the field while enhancing their readiness to excel in a dynamic and evolving workforce. Community engagement is a key aspect of this position, involving participation in outreach activities, workshops, and training sessions that connect our research with practical applications in the field.
The position is grant funded and the initial appointment will be for one-year and is renewable subject to performance and budget.
The Research Associate will be integral to advancing research initiatives in the areas of Agricultural Technology, Sciences, and Engineering. The candidate will be expected to conduct research in one or more of the following areas. Candidates with expertise in directly related research areas not referenced below will also be considered
· Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Digital Mapping as applied to climate smart food and agriculture domains
· Automation, Cyberphysical Systems, Robotics, and Mechatronics in food and agriculture domains
· Food-Energy-Water Systems (e.g., biomass, agrivoltaics, vertical farming)
· Internet-of-Things, Edge Computing, Human-Computer Interaction, and Image Processing in food and agriculture domains
· Advanced Materials, Manufacturing Processes, Digital Twins in food and agriculture domains
· Water technologies (e.g., precision irrigation, groundwater recharge, water treatment)
· “Small Farmer” Tech Solutions
· Climate Resilience and Regenerative Agriculture
· Agricultural Biotechnology (e.g. biologicals, synthetic biology, bioreactors)
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required:
· PhD or MS in Science, Engineering, Agricultural Sciences, or a closely related field from an accredited institution or foreign equivalent.
· A minimum of two years of research experience in industry or academia is required.
· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, coupled with excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
· Demonstrated proficiency in research methodologies, data analysis, and standard research software applications.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within our diverse research teams.
· Experience with project documentation and research protocols is crucial for this role.
Preferred:
· Research experience in agricultural practices, engineering and technology related to agricultural or food systems, and familiarity with California's agricultural landscape.
· Experience in grant writing and project management.
· Experience in field research, product development, using research laboratory equipment, mentoring students, experience in working with farmers and/or agriculture industry.
SALARY/BENEFITS:
$5,720.00 - $6,666.67 per month ($68,640 - $80,000 annually). Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), vacation, sick leave and holiday pay.
Application review begins March 24, 2025. Position will remain open until filled.
TO APPLY:
Please visit the Auxiliary Human Resources page at https://auxiliary.fresnostate.edu/association/hr/employment-opportunities.html for job announcement and application.
E-mail completed application & resume to: auxiliary-hr@mail.fresnostate.edu.
Please note the program is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.
