Postdoctoral Research Position – Social Scientist in Agriculture and Digital Technologies

Position Type: Full-time, 12-month

Seeking a highly motivated social science researcher to join our interdisciplinary team at the University of Missouri’s Center for Regenerative Agriculture . This postdoc will play a leading role in a NIFA-AFRI Social Implications of Digital Technologies funded grant. The overarching aim of this project is to evaluate whether digital technologies have the potential to increase access and inclusivity of conservation cost-share funds to a wide variety of producers, with the ultimate goal of increasing adoption of sustainable farming practices.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a farmer-focused applied research project on an interdisciplinary team. You will also have opportunities to contribute to several other grant projects being implemented through the Center for Regenerative Agriculture, including our Missouri Climate-Resilient Crop and Livestock (CRCL) Project , funded by a USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodity grant.

You will work under the supervision of the PI, Dr. Kelly Wilson, Assistant Professor in School of Natural Resources and the Associate Director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture.

·         Employ conceptual framework of Responsible Innovation to support co-development of digital technology (an app to facilitate enrollment and participation in our incentive payment programs)

·         Liaison with our technology development collaborators and Center for Regenerative Agriculture team members

·         Support research design and development of instruments

·         Conduct qualitative data collection with farmers and farm partners

·         Conduct qualitative data analysis

·         Assist in the dissemination of research findings through briefings with project partners, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and presentations at conferences

Minimum Qualification:   PhD in social sciences field with focus on agriculture (e.g. Rural Sociology, Ag Extension/Communications, Human Dimensions of Natural Resources, or related field).

Candidates will be evaluated on:  

·         Experience conducting qualitative research (interviews, focus groups, surveys)

·         Demonstrated skills in conducting social science research and publishing in peer-review journals

·         Experience working with farmers, particularly in the Midwest

·         Background/interest in impacts of technology in agriculture

Starting date: August 1, 2024 , or as negotiated

Interested candidates should submit the following materials via email to Dr. Kelly Wilson ([email protected]):

·         Cover letter outlining your research experience, interests, and why you are interested in this position.

·         Curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant qualifications, skills, and experience.

·         Contact information for three professional references.

To apply for this job, go to the MU website at https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings , Job ID 52125.

Open until filled.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses.  For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits . 

Values Commitment
We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person’s success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement.  This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate.

In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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