RESEARCH SPECIALIST I

Department of Plant Science & Technology

Position Summary:

The Research Specialist I will support the operations of the MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab by performing laboratory analyses of soil, plant tissue, and water samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and assisting with research projects and data management. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards. This position provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to the lab's research and outreach efforts, supporting agriculture and environmental health in Missouri and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sample Preparation and Analysis:
  • Receive, log, and process soil, plant, and water samples following established protocols.
  • Perform laboratory testing using standard chemical and instrumental methods (e.g., pH, EC, Mehlich-3 extractions, spectroscopy, etc.).
  • Ensure accurate data entry and report generation for clients and research studies.
• Quality Control and Assurance:
  • Follow strict quality control (QC) protocols to ensure accuracy and precision of lab results.
  • Assist in routine calibration, validation, and troubleshooting of lab equipment.
  • Maintain detailed records of QC checks and resolve discrepancies in testing data.
• Research Support:
  • Assist in research projects related to soil fertility, plant nutrition, and soil health assessments.
  • Collect and analyze data, prepare summaries, and contribute to report writing.
  • Support fieldwork activities as needed for research experiments.
• Lab Maintenance and Safety:
  • Maintain laboratory cleanliness and ensure proper storage and disposal of chemicals and waste.
  • Conduct routine maintenance and minor repairs of laboratory equipment.
  • Ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and procedures.
• Outreach and Communication:
  • Respond to client inquiries and provide general support regarding testing procedures and result interpretation.
  • Assist with educational outreach efforts related to soil and plant testing services.

As with all positions, involvement with other duties and responsibilities may be expected in order to support the mission and purpose of the University of Missouri.

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

The preferred candidate will:

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in soil science, agronomy, plant science, environmental science, chemistry, biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrate strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Be proficient in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
• Have experience working in an analytical laboratory setting.
• Be familiar with laboratory instrumentation, such as spectrophotometers, pH meters, and ICP-OES.
• Possess knowledge of soil and plant nutrient testing methods and agricultural practices.
• Exhibit excellent communication skills for interacting with clients, researchers, and team members.
• Be able to perform tasks that may require standing for extended periods and lifting up to 40 lbs.
• Have the capacity to work in laboratory and field environments, as needed.

Hiring Range: $16.72 - $22.91 per hour; commensurate with experience.

Grade: GGS-007
University Title: Research Specialist I
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information including three professional references. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/hr/eeo or call the Director of Employee and Labor Relations at 573-882-2146.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.