Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship: Auburn University’s Department of Biosystems Engineering is offering a fully funded Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) position for a Ph.D. in Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering with a focus on Precision Agriculture. The selected candidate will engage in research aimed at improving crop input application through precision technologies, working with agricultural machinery such as planters, sprayers, and harvesters, and analyzing data from drones, sensors, and other technologies. The position offers opportunities for hands-on research, data analysis, technical writing, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistantship in Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering at Auburn University
Summary Table:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) |
| Research Area | Precision Agriculture, Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering |
| Location | Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA |
| Eligibility/Qualification | BS and/or MS in Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering or related fields; experience in precision agriculture and agricultural machinery preferred |
| Job Description | Research on precision technologies for agricultural machinery; data collection, analysis, and publication of findings |
| How to Apply | Contact Dr. Simerjeet Virk (svicklg@auburn.edu) with CV, academic transcripts, and a statement of interest |
| Last Date to Apply | Positions open until filled; preferred start date Spring/Summer 2026 |
Designation:
Ph.D. Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) in Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering
Research Area:
Precision Agriculture, Agricultural Machinery, Data Analytics
Location:
Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
Eligibility/Qualifications:
- BS and/or MS degree in Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering or a related engineering field
- Relevant experience in agricultural machinery or precision agriculture
- Strong interest in sensors, control systems, and unmanned aerial systems (drones)
- Knowledge of row crop production machinery and/or agronomy
- Ability to analyze spatial data and apply it to real-world farming scenarios
- Strong communication skills (both oral and written)
- Experience in technical writing and publishing peer-reviewed papers
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
- Must possess a valid US driver’s license
Job Description:
The successful candidate will engage in cutting-edge research on precision agriculture technologies and machinery systems. Responsibilities include:
- Conducting research trials on precision technology to enhance the application of crop inputs like seed, fertilizer, and agrochemicals.
- Collecting and analyzing data using advanced sensing and control systems, drones, and agricultural machinery.
- Designing and executing field trials, producing project reports, and presenting research findings at conferences and extension events.
- Publishing research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals and extension publications.
- Assisting with field days and other extension events.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants should contact Dr. Simerjeet Virk at svicklg@auburn.edu, including:
- A statement of interest detailing your experience and motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. in Precision Agriculture
- A current CV
- Academic transcripts
Last Date to Apply:
Applications will remain open until qualified candidates are identified. The preferred start date is in Spring or Summer 2026.
For more details about the Department of Biosystems Engineering at Auburn University, visit here.
