Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Agriculture

Kentucky State University - Frankfort, KY

Full-time - Entry Level

Frankfort, KY

Educational Services

About the position

The Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems will play a pivotal role in supporting research initiatives at Kentucky State University. This position involves leading and mentoring students in sustainable agricultural practices, establishing demonstration gardens, and fostering community engagement in urban agriculture. The associate will collaborate with faculty and students to enhance experiential learning opportunities and promote local food systems on campus.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) and staff in designing farming activities.
• Mentor, supervise, and lead undergraduate and graduate students.
• Implement Capacity Building Grant and Evans Allen research projects.
• Conduct collaborative and independent research to optimize sustainable agriculture production.
• Manage laboratory and farm spaces professionally.
• Build raised beds and assist in transplanting and monitoring production on the farm.
• Record and maintain data in proper spreadsheet format.
• Submit peer-reviewed manuscripts and give professional presentations.
• Interact with farmers and potential farmers to develop relationships.
• Help develop proposals for external funding of research.
• Track applications and correspondence of potential graduate students.
• Review manuscripts and theses for proper format.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems or a closely related field.
• Master's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture Education, Agribusiness, or a closely related field.
• Practical experience in research methodology in sustainable food production.
• Experience in vegetable production and training students.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills, including computer skills and statistics.
• Good organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated expertise in agricultural and food systems.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience serving as Co-PI on funded research projects.
• Prior practical or research experience with food safety management and/or organic agriculture.

Benefits

• Full-time employment status with a temporary classification.
• Opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment.