Research Associate

Research Associate Position

The research program at the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center focuses on developing sustainable vegetable management strategies for the Mississippi and Southeast regional industries. This research associate position is 100% funded through the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. The incumbent is expected to work closely with principal investigators to satisfy the goals and expectations of funded projects. Areas of emphases are nutrient management, disease and pest management, vegetable physiology, greenhouse and growth chamber technologies, sustainable vegetable production systems, and laboratory instrumentation.

Salary Grade: 13

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

This position is at the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center, Verona, MS and housed in the Horticulture Unit. This 511-acre research facility is a premier information source for the Mississippi vegetable industry and contributes research results throughout the world. Resources include office and staff, four greenhouses, two wet and dry labs, and analytical and plant physiological instrumentation. The experiment station is located near Tupelo, MS a major business hub. Additionally, the experiment station is strategically located near up and coming small and commercial vegetable production and is in constant communication with innovative growers and other scientists across the United States.

Area of Specialization: Horticulture (Vegetable Crops)

Anticipated Appointment Date: July 2026.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Research and laboratory tasks related to soil nutrient management, environmental stress physiology, plant hormone physiology, precision irrigation and sensor technologies, controlled environments, greenhouse hydroponics, and evaluating management practices to develop a decision support system. Duties and responsibilities will also include:

• Plans, coordinates, and conducts scientific research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard scientific techniques.
• Applies an analytical approach to the solution of a wide variety of problems or applies specialized techniques or ingenuity in selecting and evaluating approaches to unforeseen or novel problems.
• Demonstrates and applies thorough understanding of scientific methods, research protocols, assessment instruments, and data interpretation.
• Designs, performs, and/or oversees experiments and data collection to ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
• Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs, as appropriate to the specific position; prepares manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication; presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.
• Independently performs most research assignments with instructions as to the general results expected; receives guidance on unusual or complex problems.
• Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; prioritizes good resource stewardship in use of workplace property, equipment and supplies.
• Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
• May lead, guide, and train staff/student employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
• Proactively contributes to a culture of work safety; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices; follows appropriate safety protocols; seeks out and obtains appropriate job-relevant safety trainings.
• Works as a productive and collaborative member of a research team; ensures good communication with other team members; communicates effectively and in a timely manner with supervisor.
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in plant sciences (plant biology, biochemistry, horticulture, agronomy) or related field. Licensures: Valid driver's and pesticide application licenses, or be able to obtain them within a few weeks after the start date. Rank and salary will be commensurate with education/experience of the candidate.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master of Science (MS) degree in plant sciences (plant biology/biochemistry/horticulture/agronomy/soil science) or related field. The qualified individual should have excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with faculty, extension staff, producers, and the general public.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1. Knowledge of scientific approach and methodologies.

2. Ability to develop and follow research methodology and protocol.

3. Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.

4. Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in vegetable production.

5. Knowledge of scientific research principles, practices, and protocols.

6. Ability to design, organize, and coordinate scientific research projects.

7. Ability to work in the field and greenhouse under summer temperature conditions in MS.

8. Knowledge and field/laboratory skills to work in sustainable agricultural practices.

9. Computer skills for data analysis (Microsoft Excel; R) are also expected.

10. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

1. Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

2. Physical effort is required and the ability to lift over twenty pounds.

3. Work is normally performed in agricultural field, greenhouse, and laboratory environments.

4. Work in outdoor environments and a variety of weather conditions is required.

Instructions for Applying:

All applicants must apply online at Please complete the professional application and submit a current resume, cover letter/letter of application, official transcripts, and provide contact information for three professional references. Any social security numbers on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online.

Screening Date: June 12, 2026, until filled.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, View phone number on click.appcast.io.

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