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Assistant/Associate Professor – Irrigation Agronomist

Assistant/Associate Professor – Irrigation Agronomist

CompanyLouisiana State University (LSU)
LocationMonroe, LA, USA
Salary$Not Provided – $Not Provided
TypeFull-Time
DegreesPhD
Experience LevelSenior, Expert or higher

Requirements

  • Ph.D. in Agronomy, Plant Science, Soil Science, or other appropriate agriculture-related field is required
  • Experience in irrigation systems, water management principles is required
  • Proficiency in using irrigation management tools, such as soil moisture sensors, weather stations, and irrigation controllers is needed
  • Good interpersonal skills and leadership abilities are required for working effectively with diverse professional and lay audiences and cooperators
  • The candidate must be able to communicate effectively (orally and in writing) with diverse audiences including scientific peers, clientele, and agribusiness representatives
  • Development of scholarly (peer-reviewed) articles and educational curricula/programs for appropriate publications/journals and other outlets, including LSU AgCenter numbered publications, is required for professional development.

Responsibilities

  • Establish a research and extension program surrounding irrigation strategies to optimize crop production and resource use efficiency
  • Conduct research and deliver extension programs that help producers develop and implement efficient irrigation plans and monitor and adjust irrigation schedules based on weather conditions, soil moisture levels, and crop requirements tailored to specific crops and soil types in the Northeast Region
  • Conduct soil and water quality assessments to inform irrigation practices
  • Conduct research on crop rotation, cover cropping, and other agronomic practices to enhance water use efficiency and crop productivity
  • Utilize advanced technologies, such as remote sensing and GIS, to monitor crop health and irrigation performance
  • Collect and analyze data on crop growth, yield, and water usage to refine irrigation practices
  • Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in irrigation technology and agronomy
  • Conduct field trials and research projects to evaluate new irrigation methods and products
  • Collaborate with research institutions, industry partners, and government agencies on irrigation-related initiatives
  • Provide training and technical support to producers, extension agents, crop consultants, and other stakeholders on best irrigation practices
  • Develop educational materials and conduct workshops to promote sustainable irrigation and water management
  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, extension publications, and other scientific and technical outlets, including commodity-based websites, blogs, and newsletters
  • Secure extramural funding from federal and state agencies, commodity research boards, and agricultural industries
  • Work closely with the regional director and other research and extension faculty to ensure that their programs align with the mission of the LSU AgCenter
  • Manage personnel and equipment resources

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in irrigation systems, water management principles is required with an emphasis in crop physiology or soil science highly desirable.