R2026105030 Student Research Assistant

Position Summary

The hourly worker will support field studies of soil moisture distribution in agricultural fields. The goal of the project is to develop a cyber-physical intelligence system that forecasts spatiotemporal soil moisture and irrigation requirements across a crop field. The successful candidate will be able to work in crop field and laboratory conditions according to established protocols; be well-organized, detail-oriented, and proficient in the use of electronic and computer technology; and work variable hours during the Summer term.

Department Name

Soil and Crop Sciences

Anticipated Start Date

June 10, 2026

Anticipated Weekly Hours

20 - 40

Required Job Qualifications

Ability to follow soil and water sampling and processing protocols

Ability to work outdoors in summer weather

Ability to take crop growth measurements

Proficient with Microsoft Excel and Word

Ability to navigate or learn to update a GIS database

Have a valid driver’s license

Preferred Job Qualifications

Familiarity with irrigated agricultural production systems

Experience with operating electronic sensors

Familiarity with soil and water sampling and analyses protocols

Demonstrated effective verbal and written communication

Work independently and efficiently to complete time-sensitive tasks

Essential Duties

Assist in the installation of soil moisture sensors and the collection of irrigation and rainfall data.

Manage, process, and analyze soil and plant samples in the lab.

Input relevant soil water balance and crop growth data into Excel spreadsheets or a geographic information system (GIS) database.

Coordinate scheduling tasks with the faculty supervisor and other student workers.