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Job ID360106 LocationTwin Cities Job FamilyResearch-Researchers Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code9742R5 Employee ClassAcad Prof and Admin About the Job Summary: A researcher position is available in the Soil Ecosystem Ecology for Climate Resiliency and Sustainability (SEECRS) lab in the Dept. of Soil, Water, and Climate at University of Minnesota to study the effects of nitrogen fertilization on grain yield, soil water nitrate leaching, and nitrous oxide emissions in a new perennial grain crop Kernza. This is a 100% time position with initial funding for two years (tentative March 2024-June 2026). The position requires regular field and laboratory work at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus and the nearby Rosemount research and outreach station. Background: The researcher will evaluate plant nitrogen use, nitrate leaching potential, and greenhouse gas emissions in a full nitrogen budget of intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium) across a variety of nitrogen fertilizer management treatments and stand ages. The grain-type intermediate wheatgrass variety 'MN-Clearwater' is being studied for its potential to provide Kernza perennial grain. The post-doc will oversee the funded project and support related work associated with the KernzaCAP project. They will also analyze data, write peer-reviewed papers, and contribute to the design and development of new projects related to agricultural climate change solutions research. The researcher will work closely with PIs, graduate students, undergraduate research assistants, and field technicians in the SEECRS (Gutknecht) Lab (PI Dr. Jessica Gutknecht) and the Sustainable Cropping Systems lab (PI Dr. Jacob Jungers). Research includes measuring leaf greenness, greenhouse gas emissions, nitrogen dynamics in soil and soil water via lysimeter sampling, recording soil moisture at various soil depths, and measuring grain and biomass yields from perennial crops. The project is based on a large replicated and instrumented field experiments to determine intermediate wheatgrass fertility needs. The research program is highly collaborative with other researchers and multiple stakeholders, and the researcher will also be expected to participate in summarizing research findings for those audiences. Specific tasks include: Data management and analysis (45%) - Manage and analyze all project data for grant reporting, peer-reviewed publications, outreach products, and presentations. Fieldwork management (30%) - Oversee field tasks related to research goals of measuring greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen use from perennial crops. Duties include scheduling and participating in the collection of field data, soil water samples from lysimeters, and grain and biomass samples for crop yields. Travel to the field trials is required throughout the growing season. Lab activities (15%) - Process plant and soil samples for CN content soil water nitrate samples in the Gutknecht lab, possibility of running CN analyzer. Research dissemination (5%) - Prepare virtual and in-person presentations for professional society conferences, state agency briefings, project update meetings, field days, and Forever Green Initiative outreach events. Professional development (5%). Activities will vary depending on the researcher's career goals. Opportunities exist to mentor students, teach graduate and/or undergraduate classes, participate in efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and racial justice, and contribute to future research through grant writing. Anticipated Salary: $66,000 - $70,000, based on experience, and a competitive benefits package (more information below in Benefits section) Qualifications Required Qualifications Applicants must have a PhD in soil science, biogeochemistry, agronomy, or a related field upon beginning the position and a year of research training that could have taken place during the PhD. Experience in cropping systems field research is desired. The incumbe t must have strong quantitative skills and demonstrated writing abilities through the publication of research. About the Department The mission of the 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. Benefits 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 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) Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area Please visit the for more information regarding benefits. How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have 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. This position requires that you attach: include (as a single PDF) a brief letter of interest, CV, and names and contact information for three professional references. This position will remain open until filled. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647. HIRING MANAGER: Dr. Jessica Gutknecht, jgut@umn.edu Diversity 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... For full info follow application link. 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.