Postdoctoral Fellow - Social Scientist in Agriculture and Digital Technologies

Position Type: Full-time, 12-month

Seeking a highly motivated social science researcher to join our interdisciplinary team at the University of Missouri's Center for Regenerative Agriculture. This postdoc will play a leading role in a NIFA-AFRI Social Implications of Digital Technologies funded grant. The overarching aim of this project is to evaluate whether digital technologies have the potential to increase access and inclusivity of conservation cost-share funds to a wide variety of producers, with the ultimate goal of increasing adoption of sustainable farming practices.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a farmer-focused applied research project on an interdisciplinary team. You will also have opportunities to contribute to several other grant projects being implemented through the Center for Regenerative Agriculture, including our Missouri Climate-Resilient Crop and Livestock (CRCL) Project, funded by a USDA Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodity grant.

You will work under the supervision of the PI, Dr. Kelly Wilson, Assistant Professor in School of Natural Resources and the Associate Director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture.

Key duties and responsibilities

• Conduct mixed methods social science research including data collection, data analysis, and interpretation through writing of academic manuscripts
• Liaison with our technology development collaborators and Center for Regenerative Agriculture team members
• Support research design and development of instruments
• Conduct qualitative data collection with farmers and farm partners
• Conduct qualitative data analysis
• Assist in the dissemination of research findings through briefings with project partners, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and presentations at conferences

Minimum Qualification: PhD in social sciences field with focus on agriculture (e.g. Rural Sociology, Ag Extension/Communications, Human Dimensions of Natural Resources, or related field) by the time of appointment.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• Qualitative research experience including experience using NVivo for data analysis
• Ability to lead project activities with input from faculty team members
• Ability to work independently and with team members
• Experience conducting qualitative research (interviews, focus groups, surveys)
• Demonstrated skills in conducting social science research and publishing in peer-review journals
• Experience working with farmers, particularly in the Midwest
• Background/interest in impacts of technology in agriculture

Starting date: May 1, 2026 or as negotiated

Apply online at https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings, Job ID 58131, and submit the following materials:

• Cover letter outlining your research experience, interests, and why you are interested in this position.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant qualifications, skills, and experience.
• Contact information for three professional references.

For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Kelly Wilson (kellyrwilson@missouri.edu).

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.