Position Overview

The Research Associate performs advanced research activities requiring specialized knowledge in scientific disciplines. This role involves designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, preparing research proposals, and supervising research personnel. The position serves as a key contributor to the Texas Native Seeds program, supporting both research and native seed production operations. The role also includes fieldwork, greenhouse oversight, and collaboration on outreach initiatives, with work based in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Research Design and Implementation

• Design, plan, conduct, and coordinate experiments for multiple research projects, including species evaluations, and planting trials.
• Evaluate and apply standard research techniques and methodologies
• Maintain detailed and accurate research data records
• Perform statistical and technical analysis using computers and specialized software
• Install and maintain field research projects utilizing agricultural equipment
• Assist with native seed production and greenhouse operations
• Assist with operating and maintaining research and farm equipment
• Collect vegetation data, including in remote location and adverse conditions

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyze experimental results and interpret findings
• Summarize results for scientific and popular publications
• Prepare technical documentation and project reports

Proposal Development, Project Management and Outreach

• Assist with preparing and writing research proposals for funding agencies
• Support grant related documentation and reporting
• Meet with potential funders
• Assist with public and professional outreach activities

Supervision and training

• Supervise undergraduate and graduate students
• Oversee laboratory, field and technical staff
• Provide training and guidance on research procedures and safety.

Other Duties

• The above represents the major duties, responsibilities, and authorities of this job, and is not intended to be a complete list of all tasks and functions. Other duties may be assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Education - Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience - Two Years of related experience

Required Licenses and Certifications

• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in ecological or agricultural research
• Experience with native seed production or greenhouse operation
• Experience supervising students or staff
• Experience writing grant proposals

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of laboratory and field research techniques
• Ability to analyze data using statistical and computer software
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Skill in operating research and farm equipment
• Ability to work in outdoor and remote environments

Other Requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors exposed to various weather conditions, potential allergens, elevated noise levels, and heat
• Ability to move up to 50 lbs with assistance
• Ability to move light, medium or heavy objects with assistance.
• Ability to travel independently to other and/or remote locations by driving and/or flying on commercial airlines

Other Requirements and Factors

• This position is security sensitive
• This position will require export-control authorization prior to starting employment.
• This position requires compliance with state and federal laws/codes and Texas A&M University System/TAMU policies, regulations, rules and procedures
• All tasks and job responsibilities must be performed safely without injury to self or others in compliance with System and University safety requirements
• This position may require up to 25% (specify percentage) or more travel
• This position may require work beyond normal office hours and/or work on weekends
• This position may direct and/or evaluate the work of others
• This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance