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Soil Science Research Assistant information

What does a soil science research assistant do?

A Soil Science Research Assistant supports scientists in studying soil properties, composition, and processes. Their tasks often include collecting soil samples from the field, preparing and analyzing samples in the lab, recording data, and maintaining equipment. They may also assist in conducting experiments, managing databases, and preparing reports or presentations. The role helps advance research in areas such as agriculture, environmental science, and land management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a soil science research assistant?

To thrive as a Soil Science Research Assistant, you need a solid understanding of soil chemistry, biology, and ecology, usually backed by a degree in soil science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, GIS software, and data analysis tools like R or Excel is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate research, reliable data collection, and successful collaboration within scientific projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by soil science research assistants in fieldwork settings?

Soil Science Research Assistants often encounter challenges related to varying weather conditions, remote field locations, and the physical demands of collecting soil samples. Adapting to unexpected changes, such as equipment malfunctions or altered sampling sites, requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. Additionally, effective communication with team members and researchers is essential to ensure accurate data collection and reporting, making collaboration a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Soil Science Research Assistant vs Soil Technician?

AspectSoil Science Research AssistantSoil Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in soil science, environmental science, or related field; some roles may require a master'sHigh school diploma or associate degree; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, universities, government agenciesField sampling sites, laboratories, agricultural settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, government agencies, environmental organizationsAgricultural companies, environmental consulting firms, government agencies

While both roles involve working with soil samples and data, Soil Science Research Assistants focus on supporting research projects, data analysis, and scientific studies. Soil Technicians primarily handle field sampling, soil testing, and sample processing. The Research Assistant role typically requires more academic credentials and involves more analytical and research tasks, whereas the Technician role emphasizes fieldwork and technical testing.

What cities are hiring for Soil Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Soil Science Research Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Soil Science Research Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Soil Science Research Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Soil Science Research Assistant jobs?

For Soil Science Research Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Soil Science Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Phd Student In Environmental Fate Of Herbicides

Hattiesburg, MS • On-site

Mississippi State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Mississippi State Universityexternal

$74K - $97K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Mississippi State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

492nd of 633 rated colleges and universities

Job description

PhD Opportunity in Environmental Fate of Herbicides

START: SPRING OR FALL 2027


⚠️ Please read the Application Instructions before applying.


📍 Mississippi State University

🌱 Weed Science Research Group

The Weed Science Research Group at Mississippi State University is recruiting a PhD student to study the environmental fate, behavior, and transport of herbicides in agricultural systems. 

This position will focus on understanding the physicochemical processes that govern herbicide persistence, mobility, and transformation under field and controlled conditions.

Research Focus Areas

·       Herbicide sorption/desorption in soils

·       Degradation kinetics (biotic and abiotic processes)

·       Transport (Leaching potential, Volatility, runoff)

·       Laboratory and field-scale experimentation


Required Background

·       Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Environmental Chemistry, Chemistry, Crop Science, or related field

·       Previous coursework in chemistry (organic chemistry and analytical chemistry)

·       Previous coursework in Soil Science (soil chemistry, soil physics preferred)

·       Solid quantitative skills and statistical foundation

·       Willingness to conduct both laboratory and field research


Preferred Qualifications

·       Hands-on experience with chromatographic techniques (HPLC, LC-MS/MS, GC)

·       Experience in herbicide residue analysis

·       Understanding of soil–chemical interactions

·       Experience in experimental design and data analysis (R, SAS, or similar)

·       Background in environmental risk assessment

·       Scientific writing experience (publications are a plus)

·       Ability to work independently and manage long-term experiments


What This Position Offers

✔️ Training in advanced environmental fate methodologies

✔️ Hands-on experience with analytical chemistry and field experimentation

✔️ Strong integration between laboratory and applied agricultural systems

✔️ Opportunities for high-impact publications

✔️ Collaboration with national and international partners

✔️ Mentorship in becoming an independent scientist and future leader in weed and environmental sciences

✔️ Full graduate research assistantship: competitive stipend, tuition waiver, and health insurance for three years.


Application Instructions

Please do not send direct messages on LinkedIn or other social media; we do not monitor those channels for applications. Please also do not send application materials via email. Applications via email will not be considered.


Before starting the form, please have ready: (1) a current CV, (2) unofficial transcripts, (3) a one-page statement of research interests, and (4) contact information for three references.

Applications must be submitted through the following link:

https://forms.gle/tAeK729T3Vutv2FL7

Please feel free to share this opportunity with suitable candidates who are passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture through science.


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