Job Opportunities
Assistant/Associate Professor and Extension Specialist: Diversified Cropping Systems Agronomist (Organic and Conventional) Opening for the University of Minnesota.
Position: Assistant/Associate Professor and Extension Specialist: Diversified Cropping Systems Agronomist (Organic and Conventional).
Location: Southwest Research and Outreach Center at Lamberton, Minnesota.
Closing Date: June 30, 2009 or until position is filled.
Appointment: 9-month tenure track within the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, St. Paul, MN.
Responsibilities: This position is 60% Extension and 40% Research. The selected applicant will provide state-wide leadership in the planning, development, and implementation of innovative extension education programs on organic, sustainable, and conventional multi-functional cropping systems. The successful candidate will work closely with Extension Educators, other Extension specialists, research scientists, clientele groups and other stakeholders to develop a high quality educational curriculum that includes workshops, trainings, field days, and conventional and electronic publications.
The selected applicant’s research will focus on innovative approaches to diversify Minnesota cropping systems to improve sustainability and profitability of crop agriculture and to deliver ecosystems services. Potential areas of research include integration of cover crop components or other crops into current cropping systems to enhance resource stewardship and cropping sustainability and cultural practices in crop systems to optimize yield.
The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate research and extension productivity through obtaining extra mural funding and publication in relevant refereed journals. The successful candidate will also be expected to involve graduate students in research and develop and implement a nationally and internationally recognized extension and research program.
Qualifications: A Ph.D. in crop science, agro ecology, agronomy, soil science, or related fields at the time of appointment. Commitment to excellence and effectiveness in educational programming and experience in conducting applied research are essential. Candidates should possess excellent oral and written English communications skills and have the ability to work effectively with other researchers and diverse clientele groups.
A history of successful grant applications and demonstrated ability to publish for both the scientific community and the producer clientele is desirable.
Salary and benefits: Position will be filled at a tenure-track rank of assistant or associate professor with a nine-month, 100% time appointment within the Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics. Salary will be supplemented with two months of summer salary for the first three years of the appointment to help establish a research program. Salary is competitive and commensurate with professional experience and qualifications. Fringe benefits include employee health, dental, and faculty life/disability insurance, social security, faculty retirement and opportunities for professional development.
How to Apply: Submit the following electronically:
- A letter of application including a statement (2 page maximum) of Extension and research interests related to this position.
- A detailed vitae including a list of publications, grant proposals, project management, a summary of extension and/or teaching activities, and other relevant materials.
- Official academic transcripts.
- A list with the names, addresses and e-mail addresses of three references.
Initial screening of applicants will start June 2009. The position will be open until filled with a suitable candidate. The projected starting date is September 1, 2009 but is negotiable. Please e-mail, with the attachments, your application and supporting documents to Ms. Jeanne Davy ([log in to unmask]), Senior Administrative Director, Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, University of Minnesota.
Inquiries about the position should be addressed to Dr. Jim Orf ([log in to unmask]) or Dr. Jochum Wiersma ([log in to unmask]), Search Committee Co-Chairs by e-mail or phone by calling (612) 625-8275 or (218) 281-8629.
Organic Certification Program Assistant
Position: The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) are seeking an immediate opening for an Organic Program Assistant.
Duties: The program assistant will provide clerical support to OEFA’s Organic Certification program. This is a full time position of 40 hours/week, $11/12 hour (based on experience), located in Columbus, Ohio. The ideal applicant will have work experience in an office setting and some agricultural experience (organic preferred). Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, and an employer sponsored retirement plan.
Qualifications:
- Excellent computer skills and typing proficiency (Microsoft Word, Excel; experience with Access a plus)
- Strong communication and writing skills
- Outstanding organizational skills
- Exceptional attention to detail
- Knowledge of general office procedures
- Experience or familiarity with agricultural practices.
- At minimum, an Associate’s degree
Responsibilities:
-
Perform daily administrative tasks, including answering incoming calls, filing, copying, and mail processing
-
Assist the Compliance Coordinator with highly detailed correspondence regarding organic policies
-
Track communications with clients regarding compliance with the National Organic Program
-
Answer general questions about organic certification
-
Assist with general office duties and additional projects
How to Apply:
Please submit by May 21, 2010 a cover letter and résumé (including three references with contact information, indicating relationship) through either:
Mail: OEFFA Certification, Attn: Lexie Stoia Pierce,41 Croswell Rd, Columbus, OH 43214
For questions, contact Lexie Stoia Pierce at 614-262-2022x221.
