Research Assistant Professor - Human Dimensions of Diversified Cropping Systems

The Department of Agronomy and Horticulture at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) is seeking applications for a Human Dimensions of Diversified Cropping Systems researcher position at the rank of research assistant professor. This 12-month (calendar year), non-tenure track appointment will lead research efforts on several grant-funded projects related to the human dimensions of diversified cropping systems. The successful candidate should be highly motivated and passionate about scientific inquiry that can be applied to more sustainable and equitable land management decision-making. The research assistant professor will be responsible for the coordination of human subjects research, including focus groups, semi-structured interviews, and surveys.

This is a three-year position with the possibility of renewal based on funding. The apportionment is 100% research. It will ideally be located in Lincoln, Nebraska with the opportunity for remote/hybrid work, with regularity and continuation based on job duties and department needs. Out-of-state work locations are evaluated based on comparability to Nebraska’s tax, payroll, workers' compensation, and other laws and policies. In certain locations where state laws are not comparable to those in Nebraska (non-comparable states), requests for relocation of current employees or the hiring of new employees will be critically evaluated by the University and can be denied.

This position will lead research in three interrelated projects newly funded through NSF, USDA-NIFA, and USDA North Central SARE support. Combined, these projects study the socioenvironmental factors influencing sustainable agriculture practices in Great Plains and Midwestern Cropping Systems. In this role, the successful candidate will lead the following research duties:

• Manage data from three intersecting and related socioenvironmental research projects. Create qualitative research protocols and submit this for human subjects research review. Conduct qualitative interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders. Analyze qualitative data to identify barriers and desirable future outcomes within the context of a changing climate. Facilitate a peer-learning cohort of women farmland owners. Lead the creation of new undergraduate cover crop education materials, created through stakeholder input and tested by educational professionals across the US. Lead recurring meetings with research partners and other project collaborators. Lead efforts to write and publish results of research in peer-reviewed journals as well as for non-academic audiences. Support mentorship of undergraduate and graduate students.

A Ph.D. in agricultural or environmental sciences, including but not limited to agroecology, sociology, anthropology, natural resources, agronomy, crop or soil sciences, agricultural education, or another related field is required. The successful candidate must also have experience conducting human subjects research such as interviews and focus groups; knowledge of U.S. cropping systems including socio-political-economic factors; excellent communication (speaking, written, and interpersonal) skills; and excellent skills and evidence of experience with facilitation of meetings and/or other group processes

Preference will be given to candidates with project management experience and experience working with underrepresented stakeholders.

Recognizing that diversity enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture are committed to creating learning, research, Extension programming, and work environments that are inclusive of all forms of diversity. Consistent with the University’s N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective well-being and our ability to deliver on our mission.

Review of applications to begin December 8, 2023 and continue until the position is filled or the search is closed. To view details of the position and create an application, go to https://employment.unl.edu, requisition F_230179. Click “Apply for this Job” and complete the faculty information form. Attach the following documents:

1. A letter of interest that describes your qualifications for the job, anticipated contributions, and your experience working in diverse teams and your anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters (2 page maximum). See https://ianr.unl.edu/tips-writing-about-commitment-to-deib for guidance in writing this statement. Your curriculum vitae. Contact information for three professional references.

As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See https://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination.