Position Function:
Under general supervision, employs a broad knowledge of principles, practices, and procedures in a particular field of specialization to plan, coordinate, and conduct research.
Salary Grade: 13
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
This position is located at the Delta Research and Extension Center in Stoneville, MS
Area of Specialization:
Pollinator Health in Intensive Agricultural Landscape
Anticipated Appointment Date:
January 1, 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Plans, coordinates, and conducts scientific research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial adaptation and modification of standard scientific techniques.
2. Applies an analytical approach to the solution of a wide variety of problems, or applies specialized techniques or ingenuity in selecting and evaluating approaches to unforeseen or novel problems.
3. Demonstrates and applies thorough understanding of scientific methods, research protocols, assessment instruments, and data interpretation.
4. Designs, performs, and/or oversees experiments and data collection to ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance.
5. Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs, as appropriate to the specific position; prepares manuscripts for publication; presents research results to scientific conferences and other groups.
6. Independently performs most research assignments with instructions as to the general results expected; receives guidance on unusual or complex problems.
7. Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies; promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
8. Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems.
9. May lead, guide, and train staff/student employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
10. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in related discipline.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in molecular biology, microbiology, entomology, and beekeeping experience,
- Experimental and analytical skills, understanding and knowledge of research theory,
- Excellent organizational and project management skills,
- Ability to work independently and be technically proficient and accurate,
- Effectively communicate in both written reports and presentations,
- Initiate and ensure compliance with applicable safety procedures, and attention to detail,
- Familiarity with the production of multiple crops and pollinators is desirable,
- An interest in pursuing a graduate degree in entomology is desirable but not required
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
The incumbent must be able to work in a team environment, have strong organizational skills, knowledge of basic honey bee biology, experience with insect dissection, nucleic acid extraction, and database management. The individual must be competent in written and oral communication. Competency in computer software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is necessary.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Good dexterity as well as hand and eye coordination are required. Physical strength and endurance are needed to perform strenuous outdoor work under hot field conditions for prolonged periods of time. The ability to work after normal work hours during peak seasons will be required. The incumbent must also properly use bee smokers and other hive tools to safely access the hives.
At this time, MSU is unable to offer H-1B visa sponsorship for this role. This applies until further notice.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Applicants must apply online at https:/explore.msujobs.msstate.edu and attach a cover letter and resume.
For more information contact:
Dr. Esmaeil Amiri
Mississippi State University
Delta Research and Extension Center
PO Box 197
Stoneville, MS 38776
ea795@msstate.edu
Screening Date:
October 24, 2025, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
