Researcher 6 - Nutrient Management

The Department of Soil, Water, and Climate in the College of Food Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences at the University of Minnesota seek a motivated scientist to review literature and existing data to update best management practices for nitrogen use in Minnesota. This position will provide leadership for assembling and updating nitrogen fertilizer best management practices (BMPs), establishing and coordinating nitrogen fertilizer demonstration sites, and assist with the promotion of nitrogen fertilizer BMPs and soil fertility information. The University of Minnesota (U of M) maintains research-based guidance on soil fertility and nitrogen fertilizer BMPs and the position will review current research and conduct data analysis to update Minnesota's nitrogen fertilizer BMPs and develop new BMPs. The position will also provide technical expertise for the development of alternative nitrogen management tools for reducing nitrogen losses from crop production.

The position will work closely with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) and other stakeholders on establishing demonstration sites in regions with vulnerable groundwater, focusing in areas where the Nitrogen Fertilizer Management Plan (NFMP) and Groundwater Protection Rule (GPR) are being implemented and local advisory teams are formed. Demonstrations will focus on practices to improve nitrogen use efficiency and refine nitrogen management practices.

The position will work directly with the U of M nutrient management team and also engage with faculty, Extension and communications staff at the U of M on educational programming and communications that addresses nitrogen management and practices to reduce nitrate leaching. This position will support the development of area-specific educational materials and presentations to support regional nitrogen management BMPs.

Key partners for this position:
- U of M researchers and Extension staff, including the nutrient management team, manure management team, Minnesota Office for Soil Health, and communication specialists.
- MDA statewide and regional staff.
- Farmers, landowners, and agricultural professionals including crop advisors and fertilizer dealers.

The position will work under the oversight of soil fertility faculty within the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate at the College of Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences.

Job Duties:
1. Review current literature and existing data related to N management in Minnesota (20%)

- Provide expertise on soil fertility, nitrogen fertilizer best management practices (BMPs), and alternative management tools for sustainable crop production that are protective of the environment, including groundwater.

2. Update and revise existing nitrogen fertilizer and manure BMPS used in the state and manage field trials, data collection, and analysis (60%)

- Update statewide and regional nitrogen fertilizer BMPs based on information that has been developed by the U of M, the nutrient management and manure management teams, and the Nitrogen Fertilizer Education and Promotion Team (NFEPT).
- Establish and manage regional soil fertility research and demonstration trials, including nitrogen rate trials that complement existing research and demonstration efforts by U of M and MDA.
- Analyze and interpret regional data from demonstration and research sites to update nitrogen fertilizer BMPs and provide guidance about practices that are protective of the environment, including groundwater in vulnerable groundwater areas.
- Develop technical resources that address nitrogen management practices appropriate for groundwater protection, support for demonstration sites, and targeted educational outreach.
- Integrate with UMN researchers and extension staff and collaborate on existing or new soil fertility management projects, as relevant.

3. Attend and participate in meetings with state agencies and professional societies to report on results; meet with UMN researchers and extension specialists to discuss results; write quarterly reports and annual/final reports (20%)

- Communicate area-specific educational materials (including presentations, factsheets and handouts, videos, blogs and other media outlets) to promote nitrogen BMPs and sound nitrogen management in crop production.
- Secure external funding for research and outreach and mentor students as relevant.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in soil science, agronomy, horticulture, environmental science or closely related field with a substantial research and publication record.
• Excellent technical knowledge of nitrogen dynamics and loss pathways in crop production
• Comprehensive knowledge of Midwestern agricultural crop production
• Strong organizational, leadership and problem-solving skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• A proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships and collaborations with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders
• An ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment
• Must possess and maintain an active and valid driver's license

Preferred Qualifications:

• Documented experience with agricultural research and data analysis
• Experience managing field data monitoring data organization and management
• Documented experience with producing educational communications and programming
• Knowledge of environmental regulation, including Minnesota's Groundwater Protection Rule
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate technical information to scientific and nonscientific audiences
• A track record of publishing in peer reviewed journals

The mission of the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate is to advance the understanding of Earth system processes and the interaction among land, atmosphere, and water. Through research, teaching, and outreach we seek to:

• Improve and protect the quality of soil, air, and water resources in natural and managed ecosystems;
• Enhance agricultural and forest productivity and sustainability;
• Predict and mitigate impacts of environmental and climate change on ecosystems and society; and
• Provide science based knowledge for improved decision making and a better informed citizenry.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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