Staff Research Associate 2

Position Summary:

Under supervision, provide agronomic, modeling, and statistical support for various sorghum research activities which may include forage, grain, biomass, and hay sorghums, and other agronomic crops. Assist with planning and implementing sorghum research plots which may include planting plans, planting, data collection, some statistical analysis and work on validation of modeling programs used by the research program.

This position is a career appointment that is 50% variable.

The home department is the UC Merced Specialist. While this position normally is based in Parlier, CA, this position is eligible for hybrid flexible work arrangements for applicants living in the State of California at this time. Please note that hybrid flexible work arrangements are subject to change by the University.

Pay Scale: $31.23/hour to $39.60/hour.

Job Posting Close Date: This job is open until filled. The first application review date will be 4/24/2026.

Key Responsibilities:

60%

AGRONOMIC RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SORGHUM RESEARCH PLOTS

Assist PI with plan, plant, data collection, and yield harvest of various sorghum research plots. Duties under the direct supervision of the PI would include planning and layout of field maps and field plantings, overseeing typical agronomic practices related to sorghum, monitoring plant growth and development, data collections, and harvest. Help assist in monitoring sorghum drought and salinity nurseries.

30%

DATA ANALYSIS AND STATISTICAL WORK

Maintain excellent records of work performed: lab notebook, electronic data entry and computer-aided analysis. Ensure that data is properly recorded for statistical analysis. Perform initial statistical analyses of research data.

10%

OUTREACH AND EXTENSION

Participate in the preparation and delivery of outreach and extension programs based on results from data-driven research plots.

Requirements:

• BS degree in Plant Sciences or related field or combination of theoretical training and experience equivalent to a BS degree.
• Knowledge and skills to independently select, set up, adjust, modify, calibrate, and operate a wide range of research equipment with precision and accuracy.
• Knowledge and skills to use proprietary computer and research equipment applications and keep up with emerging technologies applicable to a complex research support environment.
• Experience in researching, collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, and interpreting data, along with accurate record keeping and data entry.
• Skills in data collection and harvesting of annual crops, with the ability to protect sample and data integrity.
• Knowledge of work protection, safety standards and regulatory compliance.
• Skills to prioritize, assist in the coordination of resources, communicate, make accurate work estimates, meet deadlines, and conduct regular audits of research activities.

Preferred Skills:

• Skills to train staff interns to assure technical consistency and adherence to established policies and procedures.
• Experience in planning and deliver extension and outreach activities.
• Journey-level agriculture, plant science, entomology, weed science, agronomy, and/or crop production skills to independently perform a diverse range of research support activities.
• Experience working with sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench).
• Skills to evaluate equipment, sample, and environmental conditions.
• Knowledge and skills in specialized research equipment, facilities, and procedures required for specific field research and general support related to the greenhouse, postharvest.