Research Associate-Fixed Term

Position Summary

The Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering is looking for a qualified candidate to work under the supervision of Dr. Younsuk Dong. The selected candidate will be expected to conduct field research, data analysis, and collaborate on publications and grant writing in the area of Agricultural Irrigation.

The Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering seeks a Research Associate with background in irrigation, loT, and sensors to conduct research on developing an innovative irrigation management technology for field crops and specialty crops. The primary duties will include: 1) Working on an innovative autonomous monitoring and controlling loT system, 2) Utilizing loT sensor systems to improve water, fertilizer, and plant disease management in agriculture, 3) Improving irrigation model/algorithm to increase accuracy and prediction, 4) Conducting field research to enhance crop productivity and resiliency while minimizing environmental impacts, 5) Analyzing and reporting the results of this research, including in peer-reviewed journal articles and professional presentations. 6) Assisting and mentoring the students in Dr. Dongs research team on their projects within this broad scope of work.

Position to start as soon as possible for one year. There will be a possibility of an extension based on funding and performance. 

Review of applications will begin on March 21, 2025. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate

Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, Horticulture, Agronomy, Crop Sciences, or other related fields. Candidate should have experience in sensor technology, irrigation, and agricultural field research. Excellent statistics practical knowledge. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, R, and Java. 
Valid Driver's License 

Required Application Materials

• Current CV
• Cover Letter
• Names and emails of three professional references.

Special Instructions

Please contact Dr. Younsuk Dong at dongyoun@msu.edu for more information.

Review of Applications Begins On

03/21/2025

Summary of Physical Demands

Drive a university owned vehicle, carrying and lifting up to 30 pounds, and pushing/pulling up to 60 pounds.

Website

https://www.canr.msu.edu/bae/

Department Statement

The Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering (BAE): BAE is a national leader in education, research, and outreach in the discipline, with nationally ranked undergraduate and graduate programs in biosystems engineering. The department has been fully engaged in meeting the changing needs of society since 1906, with a current mission to improve the quality of life by integrating and applying principles of engineering and biology to systems involving food, environment, energy, and health.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.