Senior Applied Research Economist

The Rural & Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF) in the Division of Applied Social Sciences (DASS) in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR).

Position Summary

The Senior Applied Research Economist advances RaFF's state-level farm income projections and large-scale projects. This position requires developing and enhancing policy models, engaging with stakeholders, disseminating research to academic, policy, and producer audiences, and mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. The role provides opportunities to seek external funding to support new lines of research and is intended for candidates with the potential to become recognized experts in applied agricultural economics and policy analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enhance models used for policy analysis with specific emphasis on regional (sub-national) financial outcomes.
• Create and improve state-level farm income models and regional models of agricultural lending portfolios.
• Develop new tools for market and policy analysis.
• Engage with stakeholders, farm and rural finance experts, and researchers to monitor market and policy developments.
• Prepare reports and publications for academic and applied outlets.
• Present findings to a wide range of audiences, including policymakers and producers.
• Lead large research projects and contribute to RaFF's visibility at the national level.
• Pursue opportunities to seek external funding to support new lines of research.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• Evidence of substantial experience in applied economic modeling and familiarity with structural economic models.
• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with agricultural policy, commodity markets, and farm finance.
• Demonstrated record of effective written and oral communication across diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with U.S. agricultural policy and markets.
• Ability to lead collaborative projects with opportunities to mentor graduate students and postdoctoral fellows

8 AM - 5 PM, Monday - Friday

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience, and at least 5 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

PhD in Agricultural Economics, Applied Economics, Economics, or related field with 2+ years of post-PhD experience; OR Master's degree with 5+ years of post-MS experience; OR Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of relevant experience.

• Evidence of peer-reviewed publications or policy reports.
• Experience mentoring graduate students and/or postdoctoral fellows.
• Familiarity with structural economic modeling, partial equilibrium analysis, and econometrics.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel; experience with R or Python.
• Knowledge of U.S. agricultural practices, markets, and policies

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $75,000 - $90,000 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Grade: GGS-012
University Title: Senior Research Consultant

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Submit a single PDF that includes:

1. Cover Letter (research achievements, interests, and goals)
2. Current CV.
3. Contact information for three references. Finalists may be asked to provide additional reference

Candidates will need to also submit transcript(s) indicating educational degree completion.

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.

The Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF) at the University of Missouri provides objective policy analysis and informs decision-makers on issues affecting farm and rural finances. We use data from many sources to estimate how policy decisions, innovations, and other events affect the ability of farmers and ranchers to make a profit. Cooperation with participating states brings local expertise to enhance model design and estimates. This results in customized, state-level economic models and policy analyses for regions across the U.S. Learn more at raff.missouri.edu.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

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, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, 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.