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Research Assistant (Turfgrass)

Auburn
$34,610 - $54,820
United States, Alabama, Auburn
1550 East Glenn Avenue (Show on map)
Aug 07, 2025
Position Details
Position Information










Requisition Number S4653P
Home Org Name Crop Soil and EnvironmentalSciences
Division Name College of Agriculture
Position Title Research Assistant (Turfgrass)
Job Class Code HA01 A/B
Appointment Status Full-time
Part-time FTE
Limited Term Yes
Limited Term Length 2 years
Job Summary
This is a two- year limited term position and is funded from external sources. Continuation of employment is contingent upon availability of funds.

The individual selected for this position will support turfgrass science research focused on weed management and soil fertility in both field and controlled environments. This position involves developing and implementing experimental protocols, collecting and analyzing agronomic data, and contributing to reports and presentations that inform academic publications and stakeholder outreach. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational and technical skills in agronomic fieldwork and data handling, and a willingness to work independently and collaboratively in a research setting.
Essential Functions
Essential Functions include the following:

  • Research Planning and Protocol Development. Design and develop experimental protocols for field and greenhouse trials. Coordinate treatment timing, plot layout, and data collection plans aligned with research objectives. Conduct literature reviews to support experimental design.
  • Field and Greenhouse Research Execution. Implement research trials at university research stations and on-farm locations. Calibrate and operate equipment for herbicide applications, soil sampling, and nutrient analysis. Ensure accurate and timely execution of treatment applications and routine plot maintenance.
  • Data Collection and Management. Collect field and greenhouse data, including weed density ratings, biomass measurements, and soil fertility parameters. Maintain detailed records of environmental conditions, application timing, and treatment efficacy. Enter and manage data in spreadsheets and research databases.
  • Data Analysis and Interpretation. Use statistical software (e.g., SAS, R, or Excel) to analyze research data. Summarize findings through tables, charts, and brief reports. Assist in interpreting data trends and identifying research implications. Draft reports, contribute to manuscript preparation, and assist in writing extension publications. Present research findings at meetings, field days, or academic conferences. Collaborate with faculty, students, and external stakeholders as needed

Why Work at Auburn?


  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.

  • Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.

  • We're Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.

  • Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.

  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.


Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!
Minimum Qualifications


Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience:

RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Level I: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Weed Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or closely related field at the time employment begins; No experience required.

Level II: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Weed Science, Agronomy, Horticulture, or closely related field at the time employment begins plus 2 years of experience in research practices and protocols relevant to the position.

*Substitutions allowed for Experience:
When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Salary commensurate with education and experience.
Minimum Skills, License, and Certifications




Minimum Skills and Abilities
Must have an understanding of weed biology and management, experience with data collection and analysis, including statistical software, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and ability to work independently and collaboratively in a diverse environment.
Minimum Technology Skills
Use of R or SAS, Excel, and Agricultural Research Manager. Familiarity of field and greenhouse research design and data collection.
Minimum License and Certifications

  • Must have a valid driver's license or the ability to obtain one prior to the start date.
  • Must have a pesticide applicator license for Alabama or ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.

Desired Qualifications


Desired Qualifications
Desired qualifications include the following:


  • Experience in conducting field research and experimental design
  • Familiarity with agricultural practices and integrated weed management
  • Proficiency in using software tools for data analysis (e.g., R, SAS, or Python)
  • Previous experience in research or laboratory setting


Posting Detail Information








Salary Range $34,610 - $54,820
Job Category Research
Working Hours if Non-Traditional
City position is located in: Auburn
State position is located: Alabama
List any hazardous conditions or physical demands required by this position
Posting Date 08/07/2025
Closing Date
Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit their website to learn more.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please utilize the attachment feature of our online employment site and attach/upload a cover letter and resume.
Quick Link for Internal Postings https://www.auemployment.com/postings/55248
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