USDA-ARS Fellowship in Chemical Soil Health for Farmers

Overview Opportunity to join the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in Columbia, Missouri. Project focuses on maintaining soil health by improving the Soil Health Assessment Protocol and Evaluation (SHAPE) tool and measuring chemical properties of soil samples from across the U.S. to provide farmers with actionable soil health data. Responsibilities Measure chemical properties of soil samples (pH, electrical conductivity, elemental analysis). Report soil health results to participating farmers. Generate user‑friendly soil health reports. Assist the mentor in developing and applying the SHAPE tool. Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to project documentation. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, soil science, life science, environmental science, or related field received within the last five years. Minimum overall GPA of 2.5. U.S. Citizen. Age 18 years or older. Veteran status: preference for veterans; degree may be within last 120 months when veteran. Applicants from the following disciplines may apply: Earth and Geosciences (Aeronomy, Atmospheric Chemistry, Atmospheric Sciences, Chemical Oceanography, Climate Dynamics, Earth Sciences, Geochemistry, GIS, Geology, Geophysics, Large‑scale Dynamics Meteorology, Magnetospheric Physics, Marine Geology, Mesoscale Dynamic Meteorology, Meteorology, Mineralogy, Paleoclimate, Paleontology, Physical Meteorology, Planetary Science, Solar - Terrestrial) Environmental and Marine Sciences Life Health and Medical Sciences Preferred Skills Experience with laboratory protocols, chemical analyses, and handling soil samples. Appointment Details Start date: May 2026 (flexible). Duration: 9 months, renewable upon recommendation and funding availability. Participation level: part‑time. Stipend: $1,650 – $1,700 per month. No employment‑related benefits. Proof of health insurance required. Point of Contact Sara Beth. #J-18808-Ljbffr