Montana State University
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
Position Information Research in the Pulse Crop Breeding Program is focused on the development of new improved varieties of field pea, lentil, and chickpea. The successful candidate will assist with the cyclical routine of research trials including field and greenhouse experiments. The Research Associate will be expected to carry out research trials in the field and greenhouse with some oversight and coordination with the project director.
Duties and Responsibilities
Design and carry out experiments exercising discretion and judgement with minimal supervision.
Analyze and interpret data using your experience and judgment to guide future experiments supporting the goals of the project.
Daily tasks may include, but are not limited to: maintain equipment, conduct experiments in the field and greenhouse, assist with crossing and population development, organize laboratory and catalog laboratory equipment, order supplies, analyze data from field and greenhouse experiments using various computer programs, and provide support for the preparation of publications and presentations.
Prepare annual reports summarizing data collected during the year.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
B.S. in agronomy
or closely related field.
Working knowledge of plant breeding methodology.
Demonstrated ability to conduct field and greenhouse trails and operate and perform routine maintenance on plot scale equipment.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
M.S. in agronomy
or related field.
Experience with production of pulse crops in Montana.
Experience growing and maintaining plants in greenhouse facilities.
Knowledge of Montana cropping systems.
Demonstrated experience supervising undergraduate students.
Experience using Agrobase Gen II or Genovix.
Working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software.
The Successful Candidate Will
Have the ability to interact with lab workers, external collaborators/stakeholders, and students in a professional, positive manner.
Have the ability to organize and maintain a well organized physical workspace.
Have the ability to keep a regular work schedule.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funding.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver’s license, must obtain a valid Montana driver’s license within 60 days of hire.)
During planting and harvest, work hours may be more than 8 hours/day.
Must possess or have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicators license within six months of hire date.
Physical Demands
Be able to lift 50 lbs.
Be able to work in inclement weather conditions.
With or without reasonable accommodation the person in this position must be able to safely operate research plot scale tractors, planters and combines as well as other stationary equipment.
Applications will be: Screening of applications will begin on
November 19, 2025 ; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
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. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
Required Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
Optional Documents None specified.
Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Position Information Research in the Pulse Crop Breeding Program is focused on the development of new improved varieties of field pea, lentil, and chickpea. The successful candidate will assist with the cyclical routine of research trials including field and greenhouse experiments. The Research Associate will be expected to carry out research trials in the field and greenhouse with some oversight and coordination with the project director.
Duties and Responsibilities
Design and carry out experiments exercising discretion and judgement with minimal supervision.
Analyze and interpret data using your experience and judgment to guide future experiments supporting the goals of the project.
Daily tasks may include, but are not limited to: maintain equipment, conduct experiments in the field and greenhouse, assist with crossing and population development, organize laboratory and catalog laboratory equipment, order supplies, analyze data from field and greenhouse experiments using various computer programs, and provide support for the preparation of publications and presentations.
Prepare annual reports summarizing data collected during the year.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
B.S. in agronomy
or closely related field.
Working knowledge of plant breeding methodology.
Demonstrated ability to conduct field and greenhouse trails and operate and perform routine maintenance on plot scale equipment.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
M.S. in agronomy
or related field.
Experience with production of pulse crops in Montana.
Experience growing and maintaining plants in greenhouse facilities.
Knowledge of Montana cropping systems.
Demonstrated experience supervising undergraduate students.
Experience using Agrobase Gen II or Genovix.
Working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software.
The Successful Candidate Will
Have the ability to interact with lab workers, external collaborators/stakeholders, and students in a professional, positive manner.
Have the ability to organize and maintain a well organized physical workspace.
Have the ability to keep a regular work schedule.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funding.
Must possess a valid driver’s license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver’s license, must obtain a valid Montana driver’s license within 60 days of hire.)
During planting and harvest, work hours may be more than 8 hours/day.
Must possess or have the ability to obtain a pesticide applicators license within six months of hire date.
Physical Demands
Be able to lift 50 lbs.
Be able to work in inclement weather conditions.
With or without reasonable accommodation the person in this position must be able to safely operate research plot scale tractors, planters and combines as well as other stationary equipment.
Applications will be: Screening of applications will begin on
November 19, 2025 ; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
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. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
Required Documents
Resume
Cover Letter
Optional Documents None specified.
Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
#J-18808-Ljbffr