Position Title: Research Scientist,Assc

Employee Classification: Research Scientist,Assc

College/Division: Agricultural Experiment Station

Department: 317250-JORNADA EXPER RANGE HEADQUARTERS

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: NMSU satellite location

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  $59,965.78

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  NMSU is looking for a motivated individual to support research staff working on an Agrivoltaics project. This position will focus on soil and plant responses, as well as restoration techniques related to solar development in southwestern rangelands and agricultural systems.

This is a grant-funded, one-year appointment with the potential for renewal based on available funding. Position needs to be filled as soon as possible to meet project deadlines.

Classification Summary:
Independently employs a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures in a particular field of specialization to plan, design, and conduct research and present findings. Carries out novel or complex assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures. May act in a liaison capacity with various department, divisions, and organizations.

Classification Standard Duties:
Designs and implements research protocols and projects; applies advanced analytical techniques and the modification and extension of theories and practices in innovative research projects in field of specialty; develops statistical and observational models. Operates and maintains sophisticated equipment to conduct research, analyze data, and report research findings; may instruct others in use of equipment. Applies diversified knowledge of scientific research principles, practices, and protocols in research projects; may make recommendations and conclusions which serve as the basis for decision making in a specialty area. Collaborates with users and principal investigators on design, analysis, application, and reporting of research projects; teaches and advises on techniques. Supplies technical leadership and consultation to professional co-workers, collaborators, and graduate students. Prepares analyses, reports, and other documentation for publication; presents findings at local, national, and/or international meetings. Prepares grant proposals to obtain funding in support of research activities.Serves as principal investigator, as appropriate, on sub-projects of complexities consistent with above criteria. May manage or oversee a research laboratory; may curate a research collection. Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Five(5) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Knowledge of current technological developments/trends in area of expertise. Comprehensive knowledge of engineering, scientific, and/or mathematical concepts and theories in area of specialty. knowledge of contracts and grants preparation and management. Knowledge of engineering and/or scientific research principles, practices, and protocols. Knowledge of research methodology, principles and procedures.; SKILLS:Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Skill in educating others in research methods and techniques in area of expertise.; ABILITIES:Ability to utilize advanced computer statistical and technical applications. Ability to use independent judgment to adapt and modify research concepts and approaches to specific projects. Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise. Ability to develop and deliver presentations. Ability to develop scientific reports and manuscripts based on original research. Ability to utilize and maintain advanced scientific equipment and facilities. Ability to utilize advanced analytical techniques and programs to develop scientific models.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
This position will contribute to and lead novel research on agrivoltaics, with a focus on soil properties and plant growth, reproduction, and physiological responses to microclimates created by photovoltaic arrays in arid rangelands and agricultural systems of New Mexico/West Texas. The research will test the effects of agrivoltaics arrays on native rangeland and/or cropland plants and soils and apply novel restoration techniques to encourage plant establishment and survival under panels, including composted manure, seeding , soil stabilization, or other techniques. In addition to research related activities, the position includes contributing to project management and reporting. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work with project team members at New Mexico State University and collaborating federal agencies and industry.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications:
• Master’s level degree in plant science, range ecology, natural resource management, environmental sciences, or related field.
• Experience in field measurement of plant communities especially in the southwestern US
• Experience with greenhouse cultivation and seeding studies, including germination test, seed scarification and broadcasting/planting seeds for restoration
• Experience with soil amendments for restoration
• Familiarity with agrivoltaics concepts and designs
• Coding (in R) and data analysis skills, use of GIS
• Excellent written and oral presentation skills
• Record of timely publications.

Special Requirements of the Position
Ability to work outdoors during hot or cold, windy weather. Travel to field site locations, both local and regional. This is a grant-funded, one-year appointment with the potential for renewal based on available funding. Position needs to be filled as soon as possible to meet project deadlines.

Department Contact:  Rebecca Martinez, 575-646-3125, rbanegas@nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Physical Effort: Light physical effort. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.