Research Associate

Job Title

Research Associate

Agency

Texas A&M University - Kingsville

Department

Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Kingsville, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

About Texas A&M University–Kingsville

Texas A&M University–Kingsville (TAMUK), the oldest institution of higher learning in South Texas and a proud member of the Texas A&M University System, stands as the region’s premier university. TAMUK offers the widest range of academic programs and degrees in South Texas, provides exceptional learning and residential facilities, conducts impactful research, awards substantial scholarships, and has awarded more than 80,000 degrees in the institution’s 100-year history. The university is recognized for its unwavering commitment to student success, meaningful research, and deep community engagement. With a welcoming campus culture and strong regional partnerships, TAMUK offers faculty and staff a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of students and the broader South Texas region.

Location: The University is located in historic Kingsville, a friendly, safe city of 25,000 that is the home of the legendary King Ranch. Corpus Christi and its beaches are just 40 miles to the northeast, and the border with Mexico is 120 miles to the south at Brownsville or 119 miles to the west at Laredo.

For more information, click here .

Position Overview

The Research Associate performs advanced research activities requiring specialized knowledge in scientific disciplines. This role involves designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, preparing research proposals, and supervising research personnel. The position serves as a key contributor to the Texas Native Seeds program, supporting both research and native seed production operations. The role also includes fieldwork, greenhouse oversight, and collaboration on outreach initiatives, with work based in Nacogdoches, Texas .

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Research Design and Implementation

Design, plan, conduct, and coordinate experiments for multiple research projects, including species evaluations, and planting trials.

Evaluate and apply standard research techniques and methodologies

Maintain detailed and accurate research data records

Perform statistical and technical analysis using computers and specialized software

Install and maintain field research projects utilizing agricultural equipment

Assist with native seed production and greenhouse operations

Assist with operating and maintaining research and farm equipment

Collect vegetation data, including in remote location and adverse conditions

Data Analysis and Reporting

Analyze experimental results and interpret findings

Summarize results for scientific and popular publications

Prepare technical documentation and project reports

Proposal Development, Project Management and Outreach

Assist with preparing and writing research proposals for funding agencies

Support grant related documentation and reporting

Meet with potential funders

Assist with public and professional outreach activities

Supervision and training

Supervise undergraduate and graduate students

Oversee laboratory, field and technical staff

Provide training and guidance on research procedures and safety.

Other Duties

The above represents the major duties, responsibilities, and authorities of this job, and is not intended to be a complete list of all tasks and functions. Other duties may be assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education - Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience - Two Years of related experience

Required Licenses and Certifications

Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in ecological or agricultural research

Experience with native seed production or greenhouse operation

Experience supervising students or staff

Experience writing grant proposals

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of laboratory and field research techniques

Ability to analyze data using statistical and computer software

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Skill in operating research and farm equipment

Ability to work in outdoor and remote environments

Other Requirements

Physical Requirements

Ability to work outdoors exposed to various weather conditions, potential allergens, elevated noise levels, and heat

Ability to move up to 50 lbs with assistance

Ability to move light, medium or heavy objects with assistance.

Ability to travel independently to other and/or remote locations by driving and/or flying on commercial airlines

Other Requirements and Factors

This position is security sensitive

This position will require export-control authorization prior to starting employment.

This position requires compliance with state and federal laws/codes and Texas A&M University System/TAMU policies, regulations, rules and procedures

All tasks and job responsibilities must be performed safely without injury to self or others in compliance with System and University safety requirements

This position may require up to 25% (specify percentage) or more travel

This position may require work beyond normal office hours and/or work on weekends

This position may direct and/or evaluate the work of others

This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance

Why Join the Javelina Nation?

Texas A&M University–Kingsville offers a supportive, mission-driven culture focused on excellence in teaching, research, and service. All employees enjoy:

A welcoming campus community

Opportunities for professional development

Competitive benefits through the Texas A&M University System

A rewarding experience of helping students achieve their academic and career goals

Shared Values: TAMUK employees uphold the Shared Values of Care, Integrity, Pride, Innovation, and Excellence, which form the foundation of the University’s culture and guide its strategic plan. More information on TAMUK’s Strategic Plan and Shared Values can be found here .

4DX : TAMUK employees actively engage in Franklin Covey’s 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) activities within their departments. TAMUK utilizes 4DX as the framework for pursuing strategic goals by creating a culture of high performance. This requires participation from all faculty and staff. More information on 4DX can be found here .

Caring Campus: TAMUK employees embody the Institute for Evidence Based Change’s Caring Campus mindset, maintaining a collegial and caring attitude towards students and each other to foster student engagement and a positive, collaborative work environment. More information on Caring Campus can be found here .

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Texas A&M University-Kingsville offers a career filled with purpose and opportunity in addition to competitive wages. In addition to base pay, TAMUK provides eligible employees a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support employees’ well-being, professional growth, and financial security.

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

With our generous benefit package , robust professional development opportunities, strong retirement programs, and dedication to service excellence, TAMUK is a truly engaging and rewarding place to work.

Insurance:

• •Medical
• •$0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
• •Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
• •Employee and Spouse
• •Employee and Chi