Postdoctoral Research Associate - Agronomy (Agroecosystem Modeling)

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Agronomy (Agroecosystem Modeling)

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

A postdoctoral research position is available in the Department of Agronomy at Iowa State University. This position focuses on a project integrating cropping systems research, data science, and mathematical and statistical modeling.

The successful candidate will join the Agro-ecosystem Modeling Group under the supervision of Dr. Fernando Miguez. The group leverages a combination of laboratory experiments, field and on-farm research, and modeling approaches to address challenges related to improving crop production efficiency and understanding the dynamics of integrated agricultural systems.

Research emphasis will include nutrient budgets, soil carbon dynamics, on-farm research, and agronomic management practices. Candidates with backgrounds in agronomy, soil science, cropping systems, statistics, or related fields are encouraged to apply. This position involves collaboration with faculty across Iowa State University, and the selected candidate is expected to effectively communicate research findings to diverse stakeholders through written and oral presentations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead independent research in cropping systems, with an emphasis on nutrient budgets and soil carbon dynamics
• Prepare and submit manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications
• Analyze complex datasets across spatial and temporal scales using advanced statistical and data science approaches
• Present research findings in group meetings, seminars, and professional conferences

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Crop Physiology, Crop Sciences, Soil Sciences, Agronomy, or a related field at the time of appointment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience conducting laboratory and/or field experiments
• Proven record of strong publication record (e.g., at least one first-author publication or preprint)
• Demonstrated knowledge of Midwestern agroecosystems and direct experience collecting, managing, and analyzing field data
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage multiple research projects, communicate findings effectively through written reports and presentations, and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.

Department/Program & College Description:

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is one of the world's leading institutions of agriculture, with more than 160 years of leadership in science, education and extension. The college educates future leaders, conducts mission-oriented research and shares new knowledge for the betterment of Iowa and the world. The college is one of eight colleges at Iowa State University, which is one of the most influential land grant universities in the nation.

Department Unit/Website:

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date:

August 15, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

Post Docs

Original Posting Date:

June 22, 2026

Posting Close Date:

July 6, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19475

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.