Research Associate-Fixed Term

Working/Functional Title

Research Associate - Dry Bean Breeding

Position Summary

The Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences invites applications from outstanding candidates for a fixed term Research Associate position in digital phenotyping in the Michigan State (MSU) dry bean breeding program. The MSU dry bean program develops improved varieties of all dry bean market classes adapted to Michigan with improved abiotic, biotic, canning, quality, and nitrogen use efficiency.

Position Description (project/duties)

We are seeking a highly motivated and dynamic individual to lead research related to digital phenotyping to increase the rate of genetic gain in the MSU dry bean breeding program. Exceptional candidates from all areas of statistics, agronomy, or agriculture-related field will be considered.

The duties require advanced knowledge in agricultural engineering, statistics, machine learning or computer science with experience in plant breeding and quantitative genetics.

The primary responsibilities of this role, in digital phenotyping scientist, are to:

1. Coordinate development of data pipelines for high-throughput plant phenotyping using Unnamed Aerial Systems (UAS) in the MSU dry bean breeding program.
2. Develop image analysis and machine learning algorithms to facilitate the quantification of important traits in dry bean.
3. Apply new methods to test genomic prediction on longitudinal traits.
4. Develop data management protocols for a variety of data.
5. Operation of various imaging systems and platforms, such as RGB and hyperspectral.
6. Provide technical support, guidance, and training in image analysis and machine learning to undergraduate and graduate students.
7. Assist in developing proposals to federal agencies for the continued advancement of the MSU dry bean breeding program.
8. Communicate results through presentation at conferences and scholarly publications.

MSU has a vibrant plant science community comprising of more than 150 faculty members conducting a wide range of plant research spanning the lab-to-field continuum in both natural and agricultural ecosystems. PSM is a multi-disciplinary department with faculty appointed in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR; http://www.canr.msu.edu/).

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, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate - remote sensing, statistics, computer/electronic engineering, plant breeding or agriculture-related field 

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must have strong background in statistical methods, programming, and image analysis skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with an established publication record. The Ph.D. must be completed at the time of employment. 

Required Application Materials

Applications must include:

• Cover letter specifying area of focus
• Curriculum Vita 
• Contact information for up to three professional references

Review of Applications Begins On

09/25/2020

Website

psm.msu.edu

Department Statement

MSU has a vibrant plant science community comprising of more than 150 faculty members conducting a wide range of plant research spanning the lab-to-field continuum in both natural and agricultural ecosystems. PSM is a multi-disciplinary department with faculty appointed in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR; http://www.canr.msu.edu/).

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.