Research Associate
Texas A&M AgriLife Research
Summary
The Research Associate performs independent or supervisory roles in research activities requiring an advanced level of knowledge in a field of science or learning, are predominantly intellectual and varied in character, and require consistent use of discretion and judgment. Prepare proposals for funding agencies, operation of research equipment, supervision of graduate students and other lab/field personnel in research.
Job description
Field Research & Data Collection
- Oversee the establishment, maintenance, and management of agricultural field experiments, including plot layout, planting, fertilization, irrigation, and harvest activities.
- Collect field data related to crop growth, yield, soil properties, plant health, water use, and environmental conditions following established research protocols.
- Conduct soil, plant, and water sampling in field settings using standardized methods to ensure data quality and consistency.
- Operate hand tools, small equipment, and field instruments (e.g., soil probes, moisture sensors, GPS units, weather instruments) to support research activities.
Equipment & Site Maintenance
- Prepare and maintain field research sites, including plot labeling, flagging, mowing, and general upkeep of experimental areas.
- Oversee the calibration, basic maintenance, and cleaning of field and sampling equipment.
- Support safe operation of tractors, ATVs, sprayers, or other agricultural equipment when trained and authorized.
Data Management & Documentation
- Accurately record field observations and measurements in notebooks, datasheets, or digital data collection systems.
- Enter, organize, and perform statistical analysis on research data using data management and analysis software (SAS, R, etc.).
- Sample processing, labeling, storage, and documentation for laboratory analysis.
Research Support & Collaboration
- Work closely with faculty, project managers, research associates/assistants, and graduate students to support ongoing research projects.
- Follow research protocols, safety procedures, and institutional guidelines while working independently or as part of a team.
General Duties
- Perform work outdoors in variable weather conditions, including heat, wind, dust, and uneven terrain.
- Travel to research sites (60 to 550 miles) weekly across Texas and assist with loading, transporting, and unloading equipment and samples.
- Carry out other related duties as assigned to support agricultural research and field operations.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field
- Two years of related professional experience
- Familiarity with appropriate laboratory and/or technical equipment
- Ability to effectively utilize a computer and applicable software to create databases, perform statistical analyses, present data and perform other computer related tasks
- Ability to multi task and work cooperatively with others
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability insurance
- Paid holidays
- Paid sick leave
- Paid vacation
- Teacher retirement system
- Employee wellness initiative
Company overview
Texas A&M AgriLife Research is the premier agricultural and life sciences research agency of the State of Texas and a key component of the Texas A&M University System. Established in 1887 as the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, the agency was rebranded in 2008 to better reflect its comprehensive mission in agriculture and life sciences. With headquarters in College Station, Texas, the organization operates 15 research centers across the state, serving all 254 Texas counties. The agency employs over 400 doctoral-level scientists and maintains an annual budget exceeding $216 million. Texas A&M AgriLife Research conducts groundbreaking research across diverse scientific disciplines including crop science, livestock genetics, natural resource management, food safety, and biotechnology. The organization has made significant contributions to agricultural innovation, including developing the world's largest gene-mapping resources for beef cattle, pioneering mechanical cotton harvesting technology, and creating disease-resistant crop varieties. As part of the land-grant mission, the agency focuses on translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit Texas producers, consumers, and the environment while addressing global challenges in food security and sustainable agriculture.