The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment department of Plant and Soil Sciences seeks a temporary Research Assistant to coordinate the implementation of research experiments focused on monitoring N balance and nutrient losses from grain crop rotations. Collect field experimental data, in particular measurement of nitrous oxide emissions, nitrogen leaching, and soil inorganic nitrogen. Develop new methodologies and sampling protocols. Identify research needs and develop plans to address those needs. Instruct and oversee undergraduate and graduate students collecting data, and interact with other personnel at UK and collaborating institutions. Develop lab protocols and implement protocols for data generation, processing, and storage. Instruct and oversee graduate and undergraduate students in sample processing, sample analysis, and using software for data processing. Maintain laboratory equipment required for research project. Summarize data in figures and tables, and summarize findings in project reports. Present results at national meetings.

Previous experience in field crop research and data collection, planning, organization, creativity, and attention to detail. Previous experience measuring nitrous oxide emissions, nitrogen leaching, and soil inorganic nitrogen is desirable but not required.Attention to detail. Previous experience in laboratory or data management. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Presentation of data at national meetings is encouraged. Competency using R or another data processing and statistical analysis software is desirable.