Postdoctoral Research Associate Available Title(s): 306-YN_FACULTY - Postdoctoral Research Associate Business Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate Employee Type: Faculty (+) (Fixed Term) Time Type: Full time Position Term: 12 Month Position Details: Summary of Duties: We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral researcher to join our team for a project focused on soil nutrient analysis in agricultural landscapes across Washington State and the Pacific Northwest (PNW). The successful candidate will play a key role in investigating the accuracy and effectiveness of portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) spectrometry for soil and plant nutrient assessment. Key Responsibilities: • Soil Sampling and Characterization: Lead the collection of soil samples from diverse farms across Washington State and the PNW, ensuring representation of a wide range of soil characteristics. • Laboratory Experimentation: Design and implement experiments to simulate varying phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and micronutrient concentrations in soil samples, spanning from very low to very high levels. • pXRF Measurement: Perform pXRF measurements on soil samples following proper incubation and processing protocols. Validate pXRF accuracy by conducting traditional wet chemistry extraction methods for soil nutrient availability on subsamples and comparing the results. • Evaluate Calibration Techniques: Evaluate different calibration techniques, including dried, saturated paste (SP), and post-water extraction SP conditions, to assess accuracy and moisture correction requirements of pXRF measurements. • Field Validation: Validate the pXRF instrument in the field for direct measurements and assess accuracy based on calibration and validation samples. • Plant Material Analysis: Evaluate wheat and canola plant materials using pXRF for mineral content assessment and calibrate with traditional wet chemistry methods. • Greenhouse Experiments: Conduct greenhouse experiments to enhance and fine-tune portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) measurements for soil and plant analysis, facilitating rapid data acquisition. • Statistical Analysis: Analyze data using practical and easily applicable statistical models, with a primary focus on linear regression (LR), to evaluate calibration accuracy and relationships between pXRF measurements and actual available nutrient levels. Explore non-linear, multiple linear regression, and other models when LR is insufficient. • Dissemination: Publish results along the way in peer-reviewed journals and present results to grower/lay audiences. Note: The specific duties and responsibilities may vary based on the evolving needs of the research project. Contact Joao Antonangelo (mailto:joao.antonangelo@wsu.edu) with any questions about the position. Required Qualifications: • Ph.D. in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or related field. • Strong background in soil nutrient analysis techniques, including pXRF (and/or other sensor technology) spectrometry and traditional wet chemistry methods. • Experience in fieldwork, soil sampling, and experimental design. • Proficiency in statistical analysis and data interpretation. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. • Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals is highly preferred. Preferred Qualifications: • Experience with greenhouse experiments and plant nutrient analysis. Additional Information: Area/College: https://cahnrs.wsu.edu/ Department Name: Crop and Soil Sciences City, State, Zip: Pullman, WA, 99164 Department Link: http://https/css.wsu.edu/ Annual Salary: $55,00