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University of Idaho

Research Associate I

University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, United States, 83843

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Posting Number:

SP005129P

Division/College:

College of Agricultural & Life Sciences

Department:

Plant Sciences

Location:

Aberdeen

Posting Context Statement The position supports the primary investigator in researching potato agronomy and pathology for the Potato Variety Development Extension/Research Program in South-Central and Southeast Idaho. It involves collaborating with Potato Extension staff at the Aberdeen R&E Center and USDA Potato Breeding Program to plan and conduct field research. Responsibilities include designing experiments, seed preparation, planting, plot maintenance and harvest, grain processing, and data collection and analysis. The Research Associate must work independently with minimal supervision, ensure quality assurance, and maintain safe working conditions when operating machinery such as tractors, planters, and harvesters.

Position Overview Performs research activities and analysis; implements and evaluates research procedures and data. Records observations and measurements then reports results. Responsible for analyzing and preparing results for publication. Works under general supervision with a certain degree of creativity and latitude. May supervise junior research personnel.

Duties

Provide technical support in planning and/or designing of scientific projects, studies, or applications

Plan and conduct research and analysis of scientific data

Interpret test results and comparing with determined standards and limits

Identify and evaluate scientific samples and determining need for further testing

Develop recommendations and/or providing solutions, standards, and protocol to a wide range of difficult problems

Plan, design, develop, monitor and/or evaluate portions of a scientific project, study, or application

Provide scientific evaluations/assessments

Research, implement, standardize, and evaluate new procedures

Maintain detailed records of results and prepares written reports acceptable to the Principal Investigator and funding agencies

Other duties as assigned

Required Experience

Two years of post-bachelor’s research experience related to the domain of this position

Required Education

Bachelor’s Degree in agronomy or a related field to the domain of the position

Required Other

Ability to work nonstandard business hours, including weekends and holidays occasionally

Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to meet policy requirements for driving university-owned vehicles

Additional Preferred

Master’s degree in Plant Science or a related field

Knowledge of potato production and general agronomic practices

Experience conducting plot-level research in potatoes or other row crops

Ability to apply scientific principles in laboratory and field research

Skilled in operating and maintaining agricultural machinery (e.g., tractors, planters, tillage equipment)

Experience with research instruments, including setup, calibration, and basic troubleshooting

Proficiency with computer software for data entry, analysis, and report generation

Strong organizational and time management skills

Ability to follow research protocols and standard operating procedures

Experience maintaining accurate research records and preparing technical reports

Strong written communication skills

Experience developing and delivering scientific presentations

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

Ability to work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances when required

Ability to work in adverse environmental conditions

Ability to carry, lift and/or otherwise move heavy materials weighing up to 50 pounds

Degree Requirement Listed degree qualification is required at time of hire

FLSA Status Exempt

Employee Category Exempt

Pay Range $52,769.60 or higher depending on experience

FTE 1

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Funding This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.

Visa Sponsorship No

Posting Date 12/17/2025

Closing Date Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants Applications received by January 11th, 2026, will receive first consideration. IMPORTANT: To be considered, your “Letter of Qualification” must address EACH of the minimum qualifications, including pertinent education and/or experience. In addition, to improve your ranking during the evaluation process, address as many of the Preferred Qualifications as possible. Information on a resume will not be accepted as a substitute for submitting a Letter of Qualification. Please also provide a copy of unofficial transcripts with your application material. If you would like to receive a full position description, please email Kristi Copeland at kcopelan@uidaho.edu and request that one be sent to you.

To Apply Visit https://uidaho.peopleadmin.com/postings/50382

EEO Statement The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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