Oregon State: Faculty Research Assistant
Posted on March 20, 2024
Position description:
The Division of Extension and Engagement invites applications for a full-time (1.0 FTE), fixed-term, 12-month Faculty Research Assistant position with the College of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Horticulture. This Extension Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Program position is stationed at the Extension Service Wasco County Office in The Dalles, Oregon. Reappointment is at the discretion of the PI and Extension Regional Director.
As a land grant institution committed to teaching, research, outreach and engagement, Oregon State University (OSU) promotes economic, social, cultural and environmental progress for the people of Oregon, the nation and the world. The mission of the OSU Extension Service is to engage the people of Oregon with research-based knowledge and education that strengthen communities and economies, sustain natural resources, and promote healthy families and individuals.
As a land grant institution committed to teaching, research, outreach and engagement, Oregon State University (OSU) promotes economic, social, cultural and environmental progress for the people of Oregon, the nation and the world. The mission of the OSU Extension Service is to engage the people of Oregon with research-based knowledge and education that strengthen communities and economies, sustain natural resources, and promote healthy families and individuals.
This Faculty Research Assistant contributes to the missions of the OSU Extension Service (OSUES) and the College of Agricultural Sciences (CAS). CAS faculty are committed to enhancing learner success by engaging them in quality academic, research, internships, global studies, and other experiential learning opportunities. Positions with primary responsibility for Extension and Engagement are likewise committed to learner success through outreach activities appropriate for diverse audiences.
This Faculty Research Assistant reports to the horticulture managing faculty in Wasco County. Decisions regarding this position are made in consultation with the supervision team which includes the Extension Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resource Program Leader, Horticulture Department Head, and the Central Regional Director.
Active and effective communication with colleagues and key stakeholders is critical to the success of this position.
Purpose of position:
The primary purpose of the horticulture program is to conduct research and outreach focused primarily on fresh sweet cherry and production systems to enhance the cherry industry in the Mid-Columbia area. Research involves field and laboratory analysis of fruit quality and quantification of fruit yield, as well as assessment of effects of rootstock selection, plant growth regulator application, and nutritional or irrigation practices, etc. The purpose of this position is to assist the managing faculty with all aspects of the planning, implementation and management of the research program. This person will be responsible for collecting and analyzing data, preparing presentations, scientific publications and extension articles, and supervision of employees. This person will also be responsible for minor maintenance and operation of all horticultural field and laboratory equipment.
POSITION DUTIES:
65% – Applied Research
- Conduct applied research activities under the direction of the managing faculty that supports Extension programming as well as demonstration projects in areas of specific need and clientele interest in sweet cherry production. Travel to sites is required.
- Applied field work research activities may include assessing tree growth, harvesting fruit at the appropriate time, collecting environmental (light, soil, soil moisture) data, applying foliar plant growth regulators and nutrients, and assisting with general orchard maintenance. Travel to sites is required.
- Applied laboratory analysis may include assessing fruit quality attributes, assisting in the maintenance of laboratory equipment, and organizing samples.
- Evaluate and document applied research and extension impacts of programs and communicate the results to the managing faculty.
- Collaborate with professional colleagues, industry members, and field representatives to develop and implement applied research programs in sweet cherry.
- Assist other faculty and technicians in carrying out cooperative experiments.
- Cooperate with sweet cherry producers to access research plots.
- Maintain Oregon Department of Agriculture Pesticide Consultant License with the Demonstration and Research option for creating demonstration plots and conducting research that may involve pesticides.
20% – Data Management
- Input, organize, and analyze data using spreadsheets and statistical software packages. Interpret and draw conclusions from data collected.
- Prepare tables, graphs and data summaries from the analyzed data for publications and presentations. Author/co-author publications resulting from research. Present research at scientific meetings as needed.
- Communicate applied research progress and results to stakeholders and provide educational opportunities using peer reviewed publications, professional meetings, commodity group presentations, extension events and electronic communication (i.e., web sites, publications, video conferencing and other online methods).
- Create, review, edit, and update appropriate Extension publications that serve the needs of the clientele served.
- Follow OSU and division brand guidelines, digital publishing standards and digital contact management data integrity practices for programmatic communications, marketing and engagement.
10% – Supervision
- Train and supervise seasonal farm laborers and students for plot maintenance and data collection. Supervision includes planning, assigning, and approving work. May potentially supervise up to three undergraduate student interns.
5% – Service
- Participate in departmental and faculty meetings and committees consistent with the duties of this position.
equal employment statement:
Oregon State University is committed to a culture of belonging and collaboration. We envision collaborative and respectful environments that are safe, inclusive, and welcoming. All employees are responsible for achieving this commitment. This commitment includes, but is not limited to, complying with Civil Rights and Language/Visual Access regulations. In addition, this individual will design, develop, maintain and/or carry out Extension programs to ensure that educational programs and outreach activities serve diverse populations, including those that have been historically marginalized/excluded from participation.
OSU Division of Extension and Engagement’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/about/diversity-equity-inclusion
Apply: https://apptrkr.com/5100465