Research Scientist I - Agricultural Water Quality

Position Title:
Research Scientist I - Agricultural Water Quality

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree

Special Required Qualifications
Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering, Civil Engineering, Natural Resources and Environmental Science, or related field.
Experience collecting environmental water samples.
Surveying experience.
Experience analyzing environmental data sets.

Job Description:

We announce one full time Research Scientist I position within the Water Research Quality Laboratory research groups led by Dr. Michelle Soupir in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University.  The focus of our research group is the sustainable development and management of our land and water resources.  This position seeks an individual to coordinate and perform research related to water quality improvements in agriculture and the environmental fate and transport of pollutants.  Our research group is a multi-disciplinary team that integrates numerous expertise to tackle complex dynamics that connect agricultural practices and management, microbiology, water quality, and soil health.   We collaborate directly with the ISU Extension and other institutions to promote the impact of our research.  New and improved engineered technologies to increase denitrification are essential to improve water quality. In the agriculturally intense Midwestern U.S., drainage networks are installed in agricultural fields, ensuring field access and crop survival, but also expediating export of N-laden waters. Denitrification woodchip bioreactors are engineered systems ideally located in the riparian zone between the crop field and stream, intercepting and treating the drainage water before discharge. Because of the N-removal efficiency, simplicity of installation, and minimal maintenance requirements, this technology has been expanded to treat discharges and runoff across broad geographic regions.  Other opportunities within our team include the role of agriculture in the spread of antibiotic resistance and connections with farmers to discover solutions.  

We are now looking for a Research Scientist I who is interested in helping to coordinate projects where we explore various dimensions of water quality, especially as it intersects with agriculture at the edge-of-field.  The position is expected to conduct experimental research and coordinate projects related to the installation of unique woodchip bioreactor systems. Experience with environmental sampling, culturing of bacteria, water quality analysis (N, P), instrumentation of remote monitoring sites, designing edge-of-field conservation practices are all valuable.  Strong communication skills are expected as the successful applicant will frequently conduct project-related correspondence with local and state officials, as well as project sponsors.   The work is expected to be highly collaborative with faculty and staff across Iowa State and at other institutions.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship. 

This is a 2-year term position. There may be opportunity for term renewal.
Level Guidelines
• Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision
• Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode
• Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope
• Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained
• Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate
• May lead projects of limited scope and complexity
• May provide guidance to students

Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

May 26, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade:
PS807

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: 1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae 2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485. Why Choose ISU? Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as: • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans • Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa) • Life insurance and long-term disability • Flexible Spending Accounts • Various voluntary benefits and discounts • Employee Assistance Program • Wellbeing program • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

Original Posting Date:
May 2, 2024

Posting Close Date:
May 16, 2024

Job Requisition Number:
R14588