UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS – PAN AMERICAN
The Agroecology Program at the University of Texas –Pan American (www.utpa.edu/agroecology) is
looking for qualified candidates to start immediately as a Research Associate position (Post-doctoral Fellow in
Agroecology) with the Subtropical Organic Agriculture Research (SOAR) Partnership. The project, funded by
the USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture led by Dr. Alex Racelis (UTPA) and Dr. Mike Morris
(National Center for Appropriate Technology, seeks to increase the competitiveness of local organic farmers
through directed, participatory on-farm research which address ecological and socio-economic barriers to
sustainable organic production in the subtropical climate region of south Texas.
The Research Associate will lead an interdisciplinary field team of graduate and undergraduate students,
county and state extension agents, and local growers in developing discrete research projects aimed at specific
concerns addressed by local farmers interested in sustaining or transitioning to organic agriculture. The
overall goal of the SOAR program is to model an academic platform that addresses local or regional issues in
organic agriculture through student development in agricultural research, and timely and appropriate training
and outreach for local growers or extension agents. The research associate would be responsible for research
coordination and supervision, and disseminating the results in both scientific and grey literature.
Desired skills: A PhD in agroecology, environmental science/studies, entomology, or closely related field.
Applicants with a masters degree AND relevant experience in agricultural research and field work will be
considered. Experience working in participatory action research with small-to-medium farms and would be
preferable. Required skills include proficiency in data analysis, experimental design, demonstrated ability to
publish in peer-reviewed journals, and Spanish-language proficiency. Candidate applicants must have a
driver’s license and be able to work in hot weather conditions.
The Research Associate position is for one year, with the possibility for extension. Starting salary is $3840K/year.
Interested candidates should send a cover letter and curriculum vitae to Dr. Alex Racelis
(racelisae@utpa.edu). The position will be officially posted through the university website late April with a
negotiable start date for this summer (preferably June/July). Position will be filled once a suitable candidate is
identified.