Research Specialist I

About the role

The Texas A&M AgriLife Research department is seeking a Research Specialist I to support agricultural policy research. Working under general supervision, you will collect and analyze farm‑level data, run simulation models, and communicate findings to stakeholders such as legislative staff and industry partners.

Key responsibilities

• Attend in‑person focus group meetings to gather primary data on crop, livestock, and specialty farms.
• Process farm‑level data and conduct whole‑farm simulation analyses using the AFPC network.
• Perform and review simulation modeling with FarmESP, a Python‑based farm‑level model.
• Assist faculty and research staff in preparing scientific publications, briefing papers, and presentations.
• Conduct decision‑aid analyses for a nationwide network of clients and users.
• Complete additional duties as assigned.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• At least four years of relevant experience.
• Preferred: Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics.
• Experience collecting primary data from producers using interview techniques.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Python.
• Experience with FarmESP simulation software.

What we offer

• Opportunity to contribute to state‑wide agricultural policy research.
• Collaboration with faculty, legislative staff, and industry stakeholders.