Opportunities
Ph.D. in Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering (Precision Agriculture)
The Department of Biosystems Engineering at Auburn University is seeking qualified applicants for a PhD level graduate research assistantship (GRA) in the Precision Ag and Machinery Systems program. The candidate in this position will conduct research related to testing and evaluating the performance of precision technologies on row crop agricultural machinery with a focus on assessing and improving the application accuracy and placement of crop inputs (seed, fertilizer, and chemical). The selected candidate will work with different precision technologies on agricultural machinery including planters, sprayers, spreaders and harvesters, develop and utilize various sensing and control systems, use imaging and application drones for data collection and field trials, collect and analyze (spatial) datasets related to different soil and crop properties and assess in-field machinery performance. The selected candidate will be expected to design and execute research trials, collect and analyze field data, produce project reports, present research findings at various conferences and extension events, assist with field days and extension events, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and extension publications.
The preferred start date for this position is Summer or Fall 2025, with the possibility of an early start in Spring 2025 if required and depending on the candidate’s qualifications and situation. More information on the Department of Biosystems Engineering can be found here: https://eng.auburn.edu/bsen/
Required Qualifications:
- MS degree in agricultural/biosystems engineering or other engineering disciplines with relevant experience in precision agriculture or agricultural machinery
- Strong interest and/or experience with sensors and control systems, precision ag technologies, unmanned aerial systems/drones, row crop production and/or agronomy
- Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written formats
- Experience with technical writing and publishing peer-reviewed manuscripts
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
- Must have a valid US driver’s license
Interested applicants should contact Dr. Simerjeet Virk (svirk@auburn.edu), describing their experience and interest in this PhD position and enclosing a copy of their CV and academic transcripts. For international applicants interested in this opportunity, preference will be given to candidates already in the US and with some experience using agricultural machinery and technology in crop production. The position will remain open until a qualified candidate has been identified.