Job Description

Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Rodale Institute Vegetable Systems Trial is a one-of-a-kind, long-term research trial which aims to connect soil health to human health by measuring nutrient concentrations in vegetable crops along with soil health measurements. This project works with a multidisciplinary team to connect the dots between soil health, soil microbiology, plant health, and human health. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will assist with coordinating field trials, data collection, processing samples, analyzing data, preparing peer-reviewed journal articles, and presenting research findings at regional and national conferences. Primary functions of this role will include field data collection and the analysis of multi-year data for manuscript preparation. As the Vegetable Systems Trial enters a new phase, this position offers the opportunity to straddle these phases by utilizing existing long-term data collected from the Vegetable Systems Trial and other multidisciplinary research projects, as well as engage with new projects that include deeper nutrient and soil testing. Candidate should have strong data analysis expertise and be willing and capable of conducting field-based research. The ideal candidate will have a unique skillset, is willing to work in a team setting, is willing to work the field, and will also possess a strong background in data analysis. This position reports to the Chief Scientific Officer, who is currently acting as interim director of the Vegetable Systems Trial. This is a 2-year position, contingent upon satisfactory performance and funding availability.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Data collection, compilation, and analysis in the Vegetable Systems Trial
• Participate in all phases of field and lab research activities, such as plot establishment and maintenance, and data collection from research sites
• Contribute to research projects related to the relationship between soil health, vegetable crop production, and human health
• Write research reports, peer-reviewed publications, and work with Rodale Institute's Research and Communication departments to create outreach and education publications, including bulletins, fact sheets, and web articles
• Assist or lead grant proposal concept development and submissions
• Present research findings in webinars and national conferences
• Must be willing and able to work in all environmental conditions

Required Experience & Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Soil Science, Crop Science, Food Science, Health Science or related discipline
• Some familiarity with soil, vegetables, and horticultural cropping systems or food systems and food is medicine science
• Strong background in conducting field research, statistical analysis, data analysis, and data management
• Strong organizational skills
• Track record of publishing in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage both scientific and grower audiences
• Demonstrates a high level of self-motivation and accountability in completing task
• Ability to work, collaborate, and communicate effectively in a team environment with individuals from varied experiences and backgrounds
• Ability to safely lift and handle items weighing 50 lbs or more
• Must be able to obtain a valid driver's license

Preferred Experience & Qualifications:

• Evidence of attention to detail
• Ability to develop and maintain high quality records and other documentation
• Ability to multitask and prioritize multiple activities
• Grant writing experience

Travel:

• Some regional and national travel is required for this position

Other Rodale Institute Expectations:

• To be trustful and respectful to all staff and visitors
• To be honest, professional, and take ownership of one's work

How to Apply:

• Please submit the following for consideration:
  • Cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information for three professional references
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, sexual identity or handicap.

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