Researcher 6

This is a one year position from with a anticipated start date of Sept. 6, 2024 and end date Sept. 5, 2025.

Required Qualifications:

1. Ph.D. in soil science, hydrology, biosystems engineering, agronomy, or closely related field.
2. Substantial and proven track record of research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
3. Thorough understanding of nutrient management for field crops and associated environmental challenges.
4. Ability to interpret and summarize research results of other scientists.
5. Excellent writing and oral communication skills.
6. Experience working/collaborating in a team or with other scientists.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. At least 5 years of experience conducting agricultural and environmental research.
2. Experience in interacting with state agency personnel.

Position Summary:

Sciences at the University of Minnesota seek a motivated scientist to review literature and update practices that will lead to a reduction of nutrients in surface and groundwater. This position will be responsible for leading an effort to review, interpret, and analyze the most up to date published research to determine the best strategies to reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus that enters Minnesota's waters from agricultural landscapes. The person hired will be expected to handle a variety of assigned complex research related projects and will apply in-depth level subject matter knowledge. A primary objective will be to identify best management practices (BMPs) that can be adopted to achieve the best possible nutrient reduction with a primary focus on the major cropping systems used in Minnesota agriculture. The findings will be used by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to characterize the effectiveness of the BMPs under different conditions and regions of the state. The study will also provide guidance for updating the University of Minnesota BMPs associated with manure and nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer use. The results of the study will be compiled in a report and should be in a form publishable in a peer-reviewed journal. The primary focus will be on data generated within the last 10 to 15 years. The position will also provide leadership in supporting and communicating the science associated with altered hydrology and nutrient reduction in Minnesota waters to policy makers and the scientific community.

Job Duties:

• (30%) Collect and synthesize the body of research related to field-scale nutrient loss prevention effectiveness under situations transferable to Minnesota conditions.
• (55%) Evaluate the potential to scale-up adoption of each best management practice (BMP) identified in the research review and identify the most promising BMPs for nutrient reduction strategy priorities during the next decade. Develop BMP adoption scenarios to achieve nutrient reduction goals. Write at least one peer reviewed publication based on the literature review and potential adoption scenarios or on a recent data set related to nutrient reduction in agricultural systems pertinent to Minnesota. Work with a GIS technician to generate maps of where BMPS can be implemented.
• (15%) Attend and participate in meetings with state agencies and professional societies to report on results; meet with UMN researchers and extension specialists to discuss results; write quarterly reports and a final report.

The mission of the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate is to advance the understanding of Earth system processes and the interaction among land, atmosphere, and water. Through research, teaching, and outreach we seek to:

• Improve and protect the quality of soil, air, and water resources in natural and managed ecosystems;
• Enhance agricultural and forest productivity and sustainability;
• Predict and mitigate impacts of environmental and climate change on ecosystems and society; and
• Provide science based knowledge for improved decision making and a better informed citizenry.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).