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Crop Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Science, or a related field with a strong emphasis on cover crops, sustainability, and decision support tools is required. Candidates must have: A research ...

S. or international crops models and requires knowledge of crops markets and crop sector policies, including domestic commodity title policies and crop insurance programs and international crop ...

Research Scientist

Atlanta, IN · On-site

$110 - $170/hr

About Insignum AgTech Insignum AgTech develops new crop traits out of plant DNA that enable plants ... Insignum AgTech is seeking motivated and talented Plant Molecular Biologist Research Scientist to ...

New

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what's next in crop science.Vylor has an exciting opportunity for a Research Scientist. Lead the development, optimization, and execution of fungal ...

... R&D Scientist implements daily, seasonal, and yearly technical and research tasks at their base ... Activities include applied experiments in agronomy, irrigation, cultivars, farming systems, crop ...

Company Description About Syngenta At Syngenta Seeds Field Crops, we're shaping the future of ... Lead the complete research lifecycle, from study design and prioritization through pre-planting ...

Our products help farmers maintain and improve crop yields while permanently removing CO₂ from ... This R&D Scientist will work closely with the Head of Technology to advance Mafix's first ...

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Crop Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do crop research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for crop research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a crop research scientist do?

A Crop Research Scientist studies plants and agricultural processes to improve crop yield, quality, and resistance to pests or diseases. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop new varieties or farming techniques to enhance agricultural productivity. Their work often involves collaboration with farmers, agronomists, and other scientists, as well as publishing findings in scientific journals. Ultimately, they aim to solve challenges in food production and sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crop research scientist?

To thrive as a Crop Research Scientist, you need a strong background in plant biology, genetics, agronomy, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and field research technologies is crucial for designing and conducting experiments. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for advancing crop yields, sustainability, and food security through innovative research.

What are some common challenges crop research scientists face when conducting field trials, and how can they be addressed?

Crop Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, pest infestations, and variability in soil quality during field trials. These factors can impact data consistency and the reliability of results. To address these challenges, scientists typically implement replicate trials across different locations, use randomized plot designs, and closely monitor environmental conditions. Collaboration with agronomists, extension agents, and local farmers also helps to mitigate issues and ensure robust data collection.

Are crop research scientists in demand?

Crop research scientists are in demand due to the need for sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate resilience. Employment opportunities are available in government agencies, research institutions, and private companies, often requiring expertise in plant biology, genetics, and data analysis tools.

What degree do you need to be a crop research scientist?

A crop research scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in agronomy, plant science, biology, or a related field. Many positions require a master's degree or Ph.D. for advanced research roles or specialization. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and knowledge of crop production systems.
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Infographic showing various Crop Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Associate Research Scientist

College Park, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description SummaryOrganization's Summary Statement: Dr. Kate Tully's Agroecology Lab at the University of Maryland is seeking an Associate Research Scientist with extensive experience in the domains of decision support tools, cover crops, and sustainable agriculture. This position is housed in a lab that explores the interface of agriculture and ecology, where fields, farms, and landscapes promote crop productivity, ecosystem services, and livelihoods. We encourage candidates from a range of agricultural systems backgrounds to apply. Please note that this position is not available for visa sponsorship.
Duties and Responsibilities: The incumbent Associate Research Scientist must be willing and able to take the lead in writing grant proposals to maintain continued financial support for their position, in addition to the following expectations:
Serve as Program Manager for the Northeast Cover Crops Council, providing support to the governing board by scheduling and conducting monthly meetings, maintaining written documentation of council activities, managing the council website (https://northeastcovercrops.com/), liaising with counterparts in the other regional cover crops councils and stakeholders, and developing/assisting in the development of council activities and products.
Update and expand the scope of the data in the cover crop species selector and seeding rate calculator decision support tools (https://www.precisionsustainableag.org/decision-support-tools) developed by the cover crop councils in collaboration with the Precision Sustainable Agriculture network; expand tool utility.
Conduct outreach and training on the Precision Sustainable Agriculture cover crop decision support tools.
Collaborate with the Agroecology Lab and other members of the Dept. of Plant Science & Landscape Architecture to generate grant proposals.
Collaborate with scientists and graduate students in the Agroecology Lab to participate in ongoing projects as needed.
Support the training of graduate students in science-based skills such as the development and presentation of research reports.
Prepare peer-reviewed manuscripts and technical reports based on outreach and tool development activities.
Physical Demands:
Preferences: A Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Science, or a related field with a strong emphasis on cover crops, sustainability, and decision support tools is required. Candidates must have:
A research background in crop and soil sciences and/or agronomy.
Proficiency providing organizational support within a laboratory setting with regard to record keeping, grant management (to include writing proposals and reports), and the generation of manuscripts (to include drafting and editing documents).
Experience with all processes involved in the development of decision support tools for sustainable agricultural practices, with an emphasis on locating, collating, and populating data; conducting quality control on data; and performing tool user testing.
Proficiency in data collaboration and communication tools (e.g., Airtable).
A minimum of five years in an Assistant Research Scientist-type role.
A minimum of ten years working across institutional and state lines with stakeholder-focused organizations to conduct research, create outreach products, and organize outreach activities/adult education opportunities such as train the trainer events targeted to both layman and scientific audiences.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with sustainable agriculture techniques, particularly in row crop systems.
Familiarity with mid-Atlantic and Northeastern US agricultural systems.
Demonstrated publication record in relevant areas.
Experience working across US regions to conduct research, create outreach products, and organize outreach activities/adult education opportunities such as train the trainer events targeted to both layman and scientific audiences.
Licenses/ Certifications:Additional Job Details

Minimum Qualifications: A Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop and Soil Science, or a related field with a strong emphasis on cover crops, sustainability, and decision support tools is required. Candidates must have:
A research background in crop and soil sciences and/or agronomy.
Proficiency providing organizational support within a laboratory setting with regard to record keeping, grant management (to include writing proposals and reports), and the generation of manuscripts (to include drafting and editing documents).
Experience with all processes involved in the development of decision support tools for sustainable agricultural practices, with an emphasis on locating, collating, and populating data; conducting quality control on data; and performing tool user testing.
Proficiency in data collaboration and communication tools (e.g., Airtable).
A minimum of five years in an Assistant Research Scientist-type role.
A minimum of ten years working across institutional and state lines with stakeholder-focused organizations to conduct research, create outreach products, and organize outreach activities/adult education opportunities such as train the trainer events targeted to both layman and scientific audiences.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with sustainable agriculture techniques, particularly in row crop systems.
Familiarity with mid-Atlantic and Northeastern US agricultural systems.
Demonstrated publication record in relevant areas.
Experience working across US regions to conduct research, create outreach products, and organize outreach activities/adult education opportunities such as train the trainer events targeted to both layman and scientific audiences.

Required Application Materials: Cover letter highlighting relevant experience and research interests, CV, contact information for 3 references

Best Consideration Date: 8/24/2026

Posting Close Date: 9/01/2026

Open Until Filled: YES

Financial Disclosure Required

For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.

DepartmentAGNR-Plant Science & Landscape ArchitectureWorker Sub-Type Faculty RegularSalary Range$80,000-$99,000
Benefits Summary

For more information on Regular Faculty benefits, select this link.

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regardingdisclosablebackground checkinformation. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

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