Job Details

Research Specialist

Position Number: 6788262
Location: Moscow, ID
Position Type: Agriculture - Plant and Soil Science

Research Specialist

Posting Number: SP005118P
Division/College: College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
Department: Plant Sciences
Location: Aberdeen

Posting Context Statement:

The position supports the primary investigator in researching small grain agronomic and pathology issues for the Cereals Extension/Research Program in South-Central/Southeast Idaho, involving planning and maintaining field studies to evaluate cereal varieties and their environmental responses. Tasks include seed prep, planting, plot maintenance, harvesting, grain processing, and data management. The Research Specialist must work efficiently with minimal supervision, ensure data quality, and maintain safe working conditions while operating machinery such as combines, planters, and tractors. Collaboration with Cereal Extension faculty and staff at the R&E Centers is required.

Position Overview:

Performs research activities and analysis, recording observations and measurements, and reports results. Participates in analyzing and preparing results for publication. Works under general supervision.

Duties may include:

Prepare standard solutions for calibration and analyses
Interpret test results and comparing with determined standards and limits
Collect laboratory or field data
Conduct research and analysis of scientific data
Participate in research design discussions
Perform literature reviews
Prepare reports
Compare data and historical records for trend verification
Develop reference files, comparison charts, and graphs on research data
Assist with site inspections and field oversight
Have little or no supervisory responsibilities
Other duties as assigned

Required Experience:

Following pre-established procedures or protocols
Collecting and reviewing scientific data
Keeping complete and accurate records
Working in a team environment

Required Education:

Bachelors Degree in Plant Science or related field to the domain of the position

Required Other:

Possess a valid drivers license and be able to meet policy requirements for driving university-owned vehicles
Professional pesticide applicators license with demonstration and research endorsement or ability to acquire within 6 months
Work nonstandard business hours including occasional weekends, evenings, and holidays

Additional Preferred:

Two years of research experience
Knowledge of small grain production methods and practices
Experience operating a variety of agricultural machinery, including tractors, planters, and tillage equipment
Proven ability to apply scientific principles in research settings
Proficiency with computer software relevant to data collection, analysis, and reporting
Demonstrated ability to:
- Perform specialized tasks and laboratory/field techniques related to small grain research
- Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot research instruments and equipment
- Maintain accurate records and compile data for written reports
Strong written communication skills

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

Ability to work with toxic, volatile, corrosive chemicals and/or carcinogenic substances
Ability to work in adverse environmental conditions
Ability to carry, lift and/or otherwise move heavy materials weighing up to 50 pounds

Degree Requirement:
Listed degree qualification is required at time of application
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employee Category: Classified
Pay Range: $24.52 an hour or higher depending on experience or education.
Type of Appointment: _of_Appointment
FTE:

1.0

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Funding: This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.
A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy: No
Posting Date: 12/12/2025
Closing Date: 12/19/2025
Open Until Filled: No
Special Instructions to Applicants:

IMPORTANT: To be considered, your "Letter of Qualification" must address EACH of the minimum qualifications, including pertinent education and/or experience. In addition, to improve your ranking during the evaluation process, address as many of the Preferred Qualifications as possible. Information on a resume will not be accepted as a substitute for submitting a Letter of Qualification.

If you would like to receive a full position description, please email Makayla Frazier at mtedder@uidaho.edu and request that one be sent to you.

Applicant Resources: https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources
Background Check Statement:

Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.

To apply, visit https://uidaho.peopleadmin.com/postings/50316

The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.