Research Associate
Long Pond, PA
Temporary
Mid Level
This is a grant-funded position through May, 2025.
The Research Associate works on assigned research projects as designated by the Rodale Institute’s Research Director. Typically, funded research at Rodale Institute Pocono Organic Center will be the primary focus of work. The Research Associate will manage field and laboratory activities at the Pocono Organic Center as well as collect data, process samples, analyze data, prepare research reports, grant proposals, peer-reviewed journal articles, and educational materials, as well as present research findings at regional and national scientific and grower conferences. This position reports to the Research Director and will work closely with other scientists, research technicians, interns, and other staff on the Rodale Institute main campus as well as staff of the Pocono Organics.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
TRAVEL:
OTHER RODALE INSTITUTE EXPECTATIONS:
The Research Associate works on assigned research projects as designated by the Rodale Institute’s Research Director. Typically, funded research at Rodale Institute Pocono Organic Center will be the primary focus of work. The Research Associate will manage field and laboratory activities at the Pocono Organic Center as well as collect data, process samples, analyze data, prepare research reports, grant proposals, peer-reviewed journal articles, and educational materials, as well as present research findings at regional and national scientific and grower conferences. This position reports to the Research Director and will work closely with other scientists, research technicians, interns, and other staff on the Rodale Institute main campus as well as staff of the Pocono Organics.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist Research Director to manage the Pocono Organic Center by being first point of contact at the center for questions, tours, etc.
- Responsible for plot establishment and maintenance in the field, data collection from research plots, data management and record-keeping, sample processing, trial management, and data analysis.
- Perform lab and field management within the context of research grants, including the following:
- Process soil, plant, fecal and animal samples
- Conduct lab experiments and procedures
- Tend and maintain experiments
- Process all samples in a timely manner
- Organize samples and send them out for analysis
- Contact external laboratories to clarify analyses
- Enter, file, and summarize lab results
- Assist with data preparation for papers and other presentations.
- Assist collaborators with sample collection and processing.
- Maintain lab supplies and facility by cleaning equipment and space as needed.
- Establish a successful relationship with Pocono Organics leadership team as well as other employees.
- Work with other research staff to assume field, lab, and data-entry coordination.
- Master’s degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Biology, Soil science, Weed Science, or closely related fields.
- Strong background in statistical analysis and data management
- Ability to follow established protocols and write new protocols.
- Detail-oriented
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to troubleshoot problems.
- Experience in managing multiple projects in a fast-paced system.
- Experience working independently and in teams to achieve established outcomes.
- Excellent self-motivation requiring little supervision. Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
- Interest in working in fields with necessary equipment.
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Power point) proficiency.
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
- Must be willing and able to work in all environmental conditions.
TRAVEL:
- Travel for this position involves trips to farms that are part of on-farm trials, and trips to local, regional or national workshops and conferences.
OTHER RODALE INSTITUTE EXPECTATIONS:
- To be trustful and respectful to all staff and visitors.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, sexual identity or handicap.
Apply for this position
Required*