We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results
New

SENIOR APPLIED RESEARCH ECONOMIST

University of Missouri-Columbia
parental leave, paid time off
United States, Missouri, Columbia
801 Conley Avenue (Show on map)
Jun 05, 2026
Hiring Department

Division of Applied Social Sciences - RaFF

Job Description

The Senior Applied Research Economist advances the Rural & Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF's) state-level farm income projections and large-scale projects. This position requires developing and enhancing policy models; disseminating research to academic, policy, and producer audiences; engaging with stakeholders; and mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. The role provides opportunities to seek external funding to support new lines of research and is intended for candidates with the potential to become recognized experts in applied agricultural economics and policy analysis.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and enhance models used for policy analysis with specific emphasis on regional (sub-national) financial outcomes.
  • Create and improve state-level farm income models and regional models of agricultural lending portfolios.
  • Develop new tools for market and policy analysis.
  • Engage with stakeholders, farm and rural finance experts, and researchers to monitor market and policy developments.
  • Prepare reports and publications for academic and applied outlets.
  • Present findings to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers and producers.
  • Lead large research projects and contribute to RaFF's visibility at the national level.
  • Pursue opportunities to seek external funding to support new lines of research.
Shift

Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, and at least 5 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in Agricultural Economics, Applied Economics, Economics, or related field with 2+ years of post-PhD experience; OR Master's degree with 5+ years of post-MS experience; OR
Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of relevant experience.

  • Knowledge of U.S. agricultural practices, markets, and policies.
  • Familiarity with structural economic models, partial equilibrium models, and econometrics.
  • Willingness to lead collaborative projects.
  • Proficiency with R and Microsoft Excel.
  • Experience mentoring graduate students and/or postdoctoral fellows.
  • Strong communication skills in English with experience in written and oral communication across audiences.
Anticipated Hiring Range

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $75,000-$125,000/year.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-012
University Title: Senior Research Consultant

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

Submit a single PDF that includes:

  1. Cover Letter (research achievements, interests, and goals)
  2. Current CV.
  3. Contact information for three references. Finalists may be asked to provide additional references or transcripts.
Other Information

Candidates will be evaluated on:

  • Familiarity with U.S. agricultural policy, commodity markets and farm finance.
  • Amount and level of experience in applied economic analysis.
  • Experience collaborating with colleagues.
  • Analytical skills.
  • Quality of peer-reviewed publications or policy reports.
  • Effective communication.
Community Information

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.

Applied = 0

(web-77cf7d65c7-tswzx)