Principal Investigator

Principal InvestigatorProSidian is a Management and Operations Consulting Services Firm focusing on providing value to clients through tailored solutions based on industry-leading practices. ProSidian services focus on the broad spectrum of Enterprise Solutions for Risk Management | Compliance | Business Processes | IT Effectiveness | Engineering | Environmental | Sustainability | and Human Capital. We help forward-thinking clients solve problems and improve operations.Launched by former Big 4 Management Consultants; our multidisciplinary teams bring together the talents of nearly 190 professionals nationally to complete a wide variety of engagements for Private Companies, Fortune 1,000 Enterprises, and Government Agencies of all sizes. Our Services are deployed across the enterprise, target drivers of economic profit (growth, margin, and efficiency), and are aligned at the intersections of assets, processes, policies, and people delivering value.ProSidian clients represent a broad spectrum of industries including but are not limited to Energy, Nuclear, Manufacturing, Chemical, Retail, Healthcare, Telecommunications, Hospitality, Pharmaceuticals, Banking & Financial Services, Transportation, and Federal/State Government Agencies.Job DescriptionLead the design and planning of research studies, experiments, and projects to address key agricultural research questions and priorities identified by USDA and stakeholders.Oversee the implementation of research protocols, including field trials, laboratory experiments, and data collection activities. Ensure adherence to scientific standards, protocols, and ethical guidelines.Collect, analyze, and interpret research data using appropriate statistical and analytical techniques. Evaluate experimental results, identify trends, and draw scientifically sound conclusions.Explore innovative approaches and technologies to improve agricultural production, resource management, and sustainability. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate cutting-edge technologies into research projects.Prepare research manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations for publication in scientific journals, conferences, and other outlets. Communicate research findings to diverse audiences, including policymakers, practitioners, and the public.Collaborate with USDA scientists, academic partners, industry stakeholders, and other research organizations to leverage expertise, resources, and data for collaborative research initiatives.Identify funding opportunities, develop grant proposals, and secure external funding to support research projects and initiatives. Manage research budgets and resources effectively.Manage research projects from conception to completion, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and reporting. Ensure project milestones and deliverables are met on time and within budget.Provide mentorship and guidance to research staff, students, and interns involved in research projects. Foster a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and professional development.Engage in science policy discussions, advocacy efforts, and outreach activities to inform agricultural policy development and decision-making at local, national, and international levels.QualificationsPh.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in agriculture, agronomy, plant science, animal science, soil science, agricultural economics, environmental science, or a related field.At least 5 years of experience conducting agricultural research, with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and external funding acquisition.Expertise in a specific area of agricultural research, such as crop science, livestock production, agricultural economics, agroecology, or sustainable agriculture.Strong quantitative skills, including proficiency in statistical analysis, experimental design, and data interpretation using software such as R, SAS, or SPSS.Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences effectively.Demonstrated leadership abilities, including the ability to lead interdisciplinary research teams, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with external partners.Experience in grant writing, project management, and budget oversight for research projects.Knowledge of USDA programs, priorities, and initiatives related to agricultural research and development.Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in research practices and team dynamics.Additional InformationCORE COMPETENCIESTeamwork – ability to foster teamwork collaboratively as a participant, and effectively as a team leaderLeadership – ability to guide and lead colleagues on projects and initiativesBusiness Acumen – understanding and insight into how organizations perform, including business processes, data, systems, and peopleCommunication – ability to effectively communicate to stakeholders of all levels orally and in writingMotivation – persistent in pursuit of quality and optimal client and company solutionsAgility – ability to quickly understand and transition between different projects, concepts, initiatives, or work streamsJudgment – exercises prudence and insight in decision-making process while mindful of other stakeholders and long-term ramificationsOrganization – ability to manage projects and activity, and prioritize tasksOTHER REQUIREMENTSBusiness Tools – understanding and proficiency with business tools and technology, including Microsoft Office. The ideal candidate is advanced with Excel, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word, and proficient with Adobe Acrobat, data analytic tools, and Visio with the ability to quickly learn other tools as necessary.Commitment - to work with smart, interesting people with diverse backgrounds to solve the biggest challenges across private, public, and social sectorsCuriosity – the ideal candidate exhibits an inquisitive nature and the ability to question the status quo among a community of people they enjoy and teams that work well togetherHumility – exhibits grace in success and failure while doing meaningful work where skills have an impact and make a differenceWillingness - to constantly learn, share, and grow and to view the world as their classroomRisk Management | Compliance | Business Processes | IT Effectiveness | Engineering | Environmental | Sustainability | Human Capital