Principal Investigator

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in District of Columbia, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Lead the design and strategic planning of agricultural research studies, experiments, and projects that align with USDA and stakeholder priorities.

• Supervise field trials, laboratory experiments, research protocols, and data collection initiatives.

• Gather, analyze, and interpret research data employing statistical and analytical methods.

• Assess experimental outcomes, recognize trends, and formulate scientifically valid conclusions.

• Investigate innovative methods and technologies to enhance agricultural production, resource management, and sustainability.

• Partner with interdisciplinary teams, USDA scientists, academic collaborators, industry stakeholders, and research institutions.

• Compose manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations for scientific journals, conferences, and other platforms.

• Disseminate research findings to policymakers, practitioners, and the general public.

• Identify funding opportunities, craft grant proposals, and secure external funding.

• Oversee research budgets, resources, timelines, milestones, and deliverables.

• Offer mentorship and guidance to research staff, students, and interns.

• Participate in science policy discussions, advocacy initiatives, and outreach efforts related to agricultural policy.

⛳️ Requirements

• Ph.D. or an equivalent doctoral degree in agriculture, agronomy, plant science, animal science, soil science, agricultural economics, environmental science, or a closely related discipline.

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in conducting agricultural research.

• A proven history of publications in peer-reviewed journals and successful external funding acquisition.

• Specialized expertise in a particular area of agricultural research, such as crop science, livestock production, agricultural economics, agroecology, or sustainable agriculture.

• Strong quantitative skills, including proficiency in statistical analysis, experimental design, and data interpretation using R, SAS, or SPSS.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, with the capability to convey complex scientific concepts to varied audiences.

• Proven leadership skills, including managing interdisciplinary research teams, mentoring junior scientists, and collaborating with external entities.

• Experience in grant writing, project management, and budget supervision for research initiatives.

• Familiarity with USDA programs, priorities, and initiatives related to agricultural research and development.

• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in research practices and team dynamics.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word; familiarity with Adobe Acrobat, data analysis tools, and Visio.

• Ability to rapidly learn additional tools as required.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

• Collaborative work environment with a focus on innovation.

• Contribution to impactful agricultural research that benefits society and the environment.