Project Scientist in Climate-Smart Agriculture with UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program

Overview

Project Scientist in Climate-Smart Agriculture with #23-11

UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program

Location Headquarters:  UCANR, Davis, CA

Position Overview

The University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) offers a unique recruitment opportunity for a Project Scientist in Climate-Smart Agriculture with UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (UC SAREP).  The Project Scientist will support the mission of UC SAREP. They will work in research and outreach to advance understanding of soil health and adoption of climate-smart farming practices to enhance the climate-resilience and overall sustainability of California cropping systems.

Requirements

Education:  A minimum of a Ph.D. degree in Soil Science, Ecology/Agroecology, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Plant Sciences (agronomy, pomology, etc.) or a related field is required at the time of appointment.

Additional Requirements

•         In-depth understanding of soil science concepts and soil health indicators and variables

•         Excellent field knowledge and 2-3 years of experience in implementing soil sampling protocols, especially in an agricultural context

•         Knowledge of soil science literature and current debates within the discipline relating to carbon sequestration, climate change effects on soil, the role of farming practices in soil health, and related topics

•         In-depth knowledge of statistical methods in soil science

•         Commitment to advancing sustainability and climate resilience in California cropping systems

•         Commitment to collaborative, partnership-focused approaches to research and extension

·         Ability and means to travel on a flexible schedule as needed to various locations around California, including to the North Coast Region and as far as Ventura County, proof of liability and property damage insurance on vehicle used is required. Must possess valid California Driver’s License to drive a County or University vehicle.

·         Skills in translating complex scientific concepts, especially relating to soils, to lay language for outreach to the broader agricultural community

·         Meeting facilitation skills

Skills Required

·      Interact with collaborating scientist to achieve proper objectives

·      Collect and analyze data for agency reporting and journal publications. Participate in extension education and outreach activities.

·      Demonstrated excellence in written, oral and interpersonal and information technology communication skills.

·      Demonstrated ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity and humility, and to share complex information in a manner tailored to the audience.

·      Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team member with others.  Able to adapt as circumstances warranted.

·      Aware and willing to actively promote diversity, equity and inclusion.

·      Demonstrated commitment to ongoing self-improvement. Ability to shift program focus as times and organizational needs change.

Desired Experience

·      Passion and desire to pursue a career in Cooperative Extension and community development.

·      Experience in rural communities and natural resource-based economies.

·      Experience in successful Cooperative Extension programming or community development.

·      Demonstrated ability to effectively plan, manage teams and implement a research program, including setting measurable goals and objectives.

·      Experience and/or expertise applying equity-driven values and approaches in racially and culturally diverse communities; understanding and experience with practice of inclusion.

Salary & Benefits

Salary: $74,500 – $79,300.  Step placement is based on applicable experience and professional qualifications.  Refer to https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2023-24/july-2023-acad-salary-scales/t37-b.pdf for information regarding the Project Scientist non-represented series salary scales. This is a represented position.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, two days per month paid vacation, one day per month paid sick leave, and paid holidays. Refer to https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

How to Apply

Visit https://recruit.ucanr.edu/ and choose “applicants” (refer to position #23-11)

Closing Date:  To assure full consideration, application packets must be received by October 9th, 2023 – (open until filled)

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e., citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship) for the duration of the appointment period.

Questions?

Contact Katie Kilbane; email: klkilbane@ucanr.edu

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.

Minimum Education and Experience