Term, 12-months, Full-time, Appointment ending one year from start date with possibility of renewal.  

Proposed Start Date:  Spring 2011.

The Department of Agronomy is seeking applications for an Agricultural Specialist II who will organize and conduct the day-to-day activities of the sorghum breeding program, which include nursery work, multi-location testing of sorghum hybrids and greenhouse operations. The sorghum breeding program at Iowa State University is devoted to the development and release of sorghum germplasm adapted to the Midwest for forage and biofuel use. This position will coordinate the breeding program and numerous research projects with the Principal Investigator (PI) and assist in the training of graduate students. Responsibilities will include seed preparation, planting, pollination, harvesting, threshing, data collection and maintenance of field plots; performing statistical analysis of yield trial data; and coordinating the greenhouse and winter nursery activities abroad. Additionally, this position will be responsible for purchasing supplies and administering the program database.

The successful candidate will possess problem-solving capabilities and the ability to work independently as well as work with and supervise student workers. Travel to research locations will be required.  

Required Qualifications:  Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, or related field and 1 year of related experience; OR a total of 5 years of related education and experience at a comparable level and directly related to the duties of the position. Experience should include field experience in Plant Breeding.

Preferred Qualifications:  MS in Plant Breeding, Agronomy, Crop Science or a related area. Additional years of related experience. Experience in sorghum breeding or cultivation. Experience in statistical analysis and database management. Experience in greenhouse management and operations.  

Salary:  Minimum $33,676; commensurate with qualifications  

Special conditions: Guaranteed consideration date has been extended to February 1, 2011.

One year term position with the possibility of renewal. All accrued vacation must be taken during the term of this appointment. Unused vacation will be forfeited upon resignation or termination from ISU.

All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university's verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check.

Applicants graduating in the Spring are encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:  Apply to QuickLink:  www.iastatejobs.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=79428

 For additional information about employment opportunities at Iowa State University, contact:

Recruitment & Employment Office
3810 Beardshear Hall
Ames IA 50011-2033
Phone: 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485
E-Mail: employment@iastate.edu

Or visit our website at http://www.iastatejobs.com

Iowa State University is an Affirmative Action employer and will take action to ensure that employment practices are free of discrimination. Iowa State University is committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce. Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. veteran. Women and minorities are highly encouraged to apply for all employment opportunities. Inquiries or questions regarding our non-discrimination policy can be directed to Carla R. Espinoza, Director of Equal Opportunity and Diversity and ADA Coordinator, 3750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 or by phone at (515) 294-6458.