Montana State University - Office of Student Engagement
Research Associate - Weed Science *Huntley, MT*
Montana State University - Office of Student Engagement, Bozeman, Montana, us, 59772
Research Associate – Weed Science (Huntley, MT)
The Noguera Lab at Southern Ag Research Center (SARC), located in Huntley, MT, is seeking a responsible and curious Research Associate to conduct research on integrated weed management and molecular mechanisms of herbicide resistance. The candidate will support all aspects of experimentation, develop skills through training, attend scientific meetings, and write grant proposals and manuscripts.
Duties and Responsibilities
Assist in the design and implementation of field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies focused on weed biology and herbicide resistance management.
Prepare and spray herbicide treatments in accordance with safety procedures.
Collect, analyze, and summarize research data.
Operate and maintain field, greenhouse, and laboratory equipment.
Supervise part‑time and seasonal labor as needed.
Work independently with minimal supervision.
Some in‑state travel may be required.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Master’s degree in agronomy or Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of professional experience.
Research experience in agronomy and weed science.
Experience with operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office package.
Experience with data collection and analysis.
Experience in supervising part‑time and temporary help.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge of the crops and production practices associated with Montana.
Experience with data management and interpretation tools such as R, ARM or other statistical software packages.
Experience with basic molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR and sequence analysis.
Experience with manuscript writing and figure preparation.
Successful Candidate Will
Have good interpersonal, organizational, communication and computer skills.
Be proactive and curious, meticulous, and precise in carrying out work assignments.
Follow instructions, maintain effective attention to detail, meet deadlines, and prioritize competing demands.
Position Special Requirements / Additional Information
Must be willing to work outside of traditional business hours when research protocols dictate.
Must be able to drive a pick‑up truck while towing trailers or farm implements.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles.
Must be able to obtain a Pesticide Applicator License within 60 days of hire.
Physical Demands
Must be able to work with and around dust, pollen‑bearing plants and pesticides.
Must be able to enter, exit and operate numerous types of farm machinery.
Must be able to lift 60 pounds.
Must be able to walk and stand in rough terrain for long periods of time.
Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.
Application Process Screening of applications will begin on
November 1, 2025 ; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Applicant Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
EEO Statement Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.
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Duties and Responsibilities
Assist in the design and implementation of field, greenhouse, and laboratory studies focused on weed biology and herbicide resistance management.
Prepare and spray herbicide treatments in accordance with safety procedures.
Collect, analyze, and summarize research data.
Operate and maintain field, greenhouse, and laboratory equipment.
Supervise part‑time and seasonal labor as needed.
Work independently with minimal supervision.
Some in‑state travel may be required.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Master’s degree in agronomy or Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of professional experience.
Research experience in agronomy and weed science.
Experience with operation and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office package.
Experience with data collection and analysis.
Experience in supervising part‑time and temporary help.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge of the crops and production practices associated with Montana.
Experience with data management and interpretation tools such as R, ARM or other statistical software packages.
Experience with basic molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR and sequence analysis.
Experience with manuscript writing and figure preparation.
Successful Candidate Will
Have good interpersonal, organizational, communication and computer skills.
Be proactive and curious, meticulous, and precise in carrying out work assignments.
Follow instructions, maintain effective attention to detail, meet deadlines, and prioritize competing demands.
Position Special Requirements / Additional Information
Must be willing to work outside of traditional business hours when research protocols dictate.
Must be able to drive a pick‑up truck while towing trailers or farm implements.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles.
Must be able to obtain a Pesticide Applicator License within 60 days of hire.
Physical Demands
Must be able to work with and around dust, pollen‑bearing plants and pesticides.
Must be able to enter, exit and operate numerous types of farm machinery.
Must be able to lift 60 pounds.
Must be able to walk and stand in rough terrain for long periods of time.
Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions.
Application Process Screening of applications will begin on
November 1, 2025 ; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Applicant Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
EEO Statement Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.
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