Postdoctoral Research Associate Corn and Soybean Production Systems

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate -

Corn and Soybean Production Systems Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

Dr. Mark Licht in Agronomy Department at Iowa State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to support ongoing research and extension efforts in corn and soybean production systems. The successful candidate will lead the preparation of peer-reviewed manuscripts focused on corn nitrogen response following a cereal rye cover crop, including data analysis, interpretation, and scientific writing. The postdoc will contribute to the development of extension materials and programs related to corn and soybean growth, development, and management. This includes creating user-focused resources such as decision support tools, fact sheets, presentations, and digital content, and assisting in the design and delivery of educational programs, workshops, and field-based learning opportunities for farmers, agronomists, and industry professionals. In addition, the successful candidate will be expected to help and lead field research trials.

Key Responsibilities:

Analyze research data, write effectively, and serve as lead author on a peer-reviewed manuscript(s). Collaborate with research and extension teams to translate scientific findings into practical, user‑friendly extension materials. Support development of educational content on corn and soybean growth, development, and best management practices. Communicate results at scientific meetings, field days, and extension events. Required Minimum Qualifications Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Plant Science, Soil Science, or a closely related field completed by the start date.

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated effective scientific writing skills. Experience leading peer‑reviewed journal article(s). Experience with data analysis and visualization using R, Python, or similar software. Extension or outreach experience, including presenting at field days and authoring newsletter articles or publications. Experience mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

Department/Program & College Description:

The Department of Agronomy at Iowa State University is dedicated to advancing agriculture through innovative, science‑based research and education. Our work focuses on developing new and improved agricultural practices that enhance soil health, conserve natural resources, improve water and air quality, and support sustainable bioenergy systems. By integrating cutting‑edge genetics, crop management strategies, and conservation approaches, we strive to produce food, fuel, and fiber more efficiently and economically. Our goal is to apply science to strengthen crop production systems while protecting the environment for the benefit of people and ecosystems around the world.

Department Unit/Website:

Department of Agronomy | Iowa State University Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: Resume/Curriculum Vitae Letter of Application/Cover Letter Why Choose Iowa State University? Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as: Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa) Life insurance and long-term disability Flexible Spending Accounts Various voluntary benefits and discounts Employee Assistance Program Wellbeing program Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or

Toll Free:

1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date:

June 1, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12

Month Work Period Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

Post Docs Original Posting Date:

May 5, 2026

Posting Close Date:

May 12, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19121 Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu. General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications. By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State University attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive land-grant mission of education, research, extension and outreach, we produce scholars whose ideas change the world. And through Innovate at Iowa State, we provide innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities. Iowa State University is a welcoming community of students, faculty, and staff. Campus community members have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to engaging with each other respectfully as outlined in the university's Principles of Community. Iowa State recognizes that diverse intellectual and philosophical perspectives are vital to innovation, critical thinking skills, and a dynamic academic community that fosters the land-grant ideals of putting science, technology, and human creativity to work. All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university's verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check. Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu. If you have questions about the application process please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll-Free at 1-877-477-7485. Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email employment@iastate.edu or call (515) 294-4800 or

Toll-Free:

(877) 477-7485. TTY users are welcome to use the Iowa Relay Service number by dialing 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2942. General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.