Research Assistant II

Position Summary

The MSU Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Program is seeking a motivated and highly organized Research Assistant to help manage, coordinate, and conduct nutrient-focused field research across major Michigan cropping systems. The Steinke Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition Program investigates nutrient management, fertilizer, and nutrient-contamination issues of corn, soybean, wheat, sugarbeet, potato, dry bean, and several other cropping systems. Our goal is to use applied field research to provide science-based research and extension information that improves crop production, increases nutrient and ecological efficiencies, and incorporates progressive nutrient management strategies for production agricultural systems. https://www.canr.msu.edu/soilfertility/  

Position Responsibilities:

• Lead a coordinated applied field nutrient management research program including the timely implementation of field research projects and the ability to organize, design, plant, maintain, and harvest field research trials.
• Help coordinate year-round field research activities including data collection, managing research records, experimental design, and coordinating activities across multiple farms and farm managers.
• Generate ideas for developing research projects and monitor protocols for nutrient management applied research.
• Supervise, train, and mentor activities for graduate students, visiting interns, and undergraduate student support.
• Collect, organize, summarize, and analyze experimental data for contributions to research summaries and extension materials.
• Assist with the calibration, operation, and maintenance of field equipment and plot application equipment including backpack sprayers and spray booms.
• Participate in outreach activities, meetings, and assist with ideas for the development of research publications and other educational materials.
• Maintain meticulous year-to-year records of field activities, methods, materials, and experimental results to ensure quality and reproducibility.
• Must be familiar with different fertilizers, fertilizer analyses, nutrient application methods and techniques, and application equipment calibration. 

Work Environment:

This position offers a combination of year-round indoor and outdoor activities with seasonal fieldwork involving moderate physical effort (lifting supplies, operating equipment, and working in variable weather conditions). Knowledge pertaining to the use and application of agricultural chemicals and following appropriate safety procedures is required.

Appointment Basis: 12 months from date of hire; renewable annually subject to performance and continuation of funding

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a Bachelor Degree program in Agronomy, Soil Science, or related field; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in overseeing research projects and laboratory operations, operating and maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment, performing specialized and difficult analytical and research techniques, and designing research experiments in an area related to research being performed; requires proficiency with Microsoft 365 suite of products and other software specific to the area of research; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.  

• Valid vehicle operator’s license required to perform duties of position
• Michigan Commercial Driver’s License with “Group A” designation required prior to the completion of the probationary period
• Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s license for field crops required prior to the completion of the probationary period

Desired Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, or related field
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail for managing multiple ongoing projects.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills to foster collaboration amongst farm crew and managers, students, and faculty.
• Passion for applied field research and a willingness to work outdoors under varying conditions.
• Dependability and initiative in managing project logistics, data collection, and timelines.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Resume/CV

Cover Letter

Two (2) letters of reference including the names and contact information

Special Instructions

Address any questions to Dr. Kurt Steinke (

ksteinke@msu.edu

). Submit application documents to careers.msu.edu. Applications will be reviewed beginning 9/18/2026 and continue until a suitable candidate is identified.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/psm/

Summary of Physical Demands

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds

Summary of Health Risks

Drive a university vehicle, which requires a commercial driver’s license:  

VEHICLES:

Having a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more.

COMBINATION VEHICLES:  

Towing a trailer or other vehicles with a GVWR of 10,001 pounds or more and a gross combination weight or weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more.

ANY VEHICLES:

• Designed or used to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation.
• Designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver).
• Designed to transport 16 or more people (including the driver).

Drive a university vehicle that does not require a commercial driver’s license but does require medical certification:

VEHICLES:

Have a gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more but less than 26,001 pounds.

COMBINATION VEHICLES:

Having a combined gross vehicle weight or weight rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds.

Work in noisy (at or above 85 decibels) areas.

Spray or mix organophosphate or carbamate insecticides.

Wear a respirator (does not include paper dust mask worn for comfort).

Bidding eligibility ends August 25, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.