Research Scientist Soil Science

Soil Scientist PositionThe Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories are seeking a curious and passionate individual to work with our team of Research Scientists on advancing the field of arboriculture. The Soil Scientist position is one of many professional Research Scientist roles at BTRL focused on developing and leading applied research programs in landscape plant health care, plant pest management, tree physiology, and soil science. This position combines scientific investigation, technical expertise, and educational outreach to support BTE's arborist representatives, clients, and internal teams.While based in Charlotte, NC, this position often requires travel to study and conduct research on high-priority issues and to serve regional BTE staff. This will involve regular travel throughout North America.The successful candidate will collaborate with research staff, industry partners, and BTE offices to develop and evaluate new management tools, refine plant health care techniques, and share findings through publications, presentations, and training programs. This position is ideal for someone with a passion for soil science research, the willingness to learn new areas of plant science, strong communication skills, and the ability to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions for real-world tree and landscape challenges.This is a highly collaborative and dynamic position that blends applied research, technical support, training, and scientific communication. Research Scientists at BTRL are encouraged to develop programs around their expertise, interests, and emerging opportunities while supporting the evolving needs of BTE. As a result, the balance of these responsibilities may vary over time.Research: Develop applied research programs focused on soil science with emphasis on practical, science-based approaches to improving soil function, root-zone conditions, plant performance, and resilience to environmental stressors in urban and managed landscapes. Research topics may include, but not limited to, soil physical, chemical, and biological properties; soil compaction and restricted rooting environments; remedies for constructed and disturbed soils; urban soil restoration using mulches and biochar and other factors influencing plant health and resilience, with flexibility to determine priorities based on emerging needs and opportunities. When appropriate, develop cooperative research with academia, non-profit, government, and allied businesses and organizations to evaluate innovative solutions and best practices in soil and landscape management. Regularly publish research results in scientific or technical journals, industry trade magazines, and company publications. Research projects are internally funded or supported through collaborative partnerships; grant writing is not required.Technical support: Provide the following to BTE representatives and clients:Work directly with BTE Arborists to diagnose plant health issues and translate scientific findings into management recommendationsProvide on?site technical support and training to BTE offices, including field-based diagnostic support of soil health, root-zone management, and tree and shrub problemsDevelop and maintain Bartlett technical management recommendations with emphasis on arboricultural practices, soil health, and environmental factors affecting tree growthDevelop and revise Technical Reports (factsheets) for use by BTE staff and the publicCreate educational programs on landscape plant issues and soil care for use by company personnel and clientsDevelop articles on soil diagnostics, soil management, tree preservation, and/or other topics for the BTE website, publications and newslettersRespond to requests for information from BTE arborists via phone, text, MS Teams, and emailTraining: Participate in BTE sponsored training programs through lectures, field sessions, and lab demonstrations including:Bi-annual technical update sessionsDivision sales meetingsBTE sponsored client seminars and Client Days eventsArborist representative and plant health care specialist training sessionsMiscellaneous:Develop and maintain contacts with tree care industry professionals and societies (e.g. International Society of Arboriculture, Tree Care Industry Association, Soil Science Society of America) as appropriate through conference meetings, committee work, and cooperative studiesServe on professional boards or committees to represent BTE's interests and expertise within the industryLead and organize the activities of Research Technicians, ensuring alignment with research goals, training, and operational standardsProvide regular updates on research progress and field activities to the Director of Research at BTRLQualificationsMinimum Requirements:Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, Urban Ecology, or closely related program of study with an emphasis on soil systemsProficiency with field plot and laboratory experimental design and statistical analysisExperience with soil sampling, soil testing methodologies, and interpretation of soil physical, chemical, and biological data, particularly in managed or urban environmentsProfessional experience or studies in woody landscape plant identificationExcellent verbal and written communication skills; proficient in Microsoft Office SuiteExperience giving scientific presentations/trainings for many types of audiences such as the scientific community, arborists, public, industry, etc.Valid driver's license and ability to travel, including overnight travel for research, meetings, and branch office technical supportPreferred Requirements:Experience with or strong interest in urban and disturbed soil systems, including constructed soils and soils affected by construction or development activitiesKnowledge of or willingness to learn field and lab-based diagnostic techniques relevant to soil science, such as soil physical assessments, fertility analysis, and evaluation of biological indicators of soil healthKnowledge of ISA Best Management Practices and urban tree management principles.A balanced background in both field and laboratory research, particularly as applied to soil–plant interactions in managed landscapesFamiliarity with integrated plant health care programs and the role of soil management in supporting tree and landscape plant performanceExperience collaborating with interdisciplinary research teams, including arboriculture, plant pathology, entomology, or plant physiologyThe F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.