Postdoctoral Fellow

The Division of Applied Social Sciences (DASS) at University of Missouri-Columbia invites applications for the position of a Postdoctoral Fellow for the duration of one year. We are looking for an outstanding postdoctoral researcher to join our USDA-AMS funded project "Enhancing Market Monitoring and Research Analysis for Fair and Competitive Agricultural Markets."

Given thinning cash trade of slaughter cattle, we will explore the potential of hedonic modeling to aggregate transaction level data corresponding to prices paid for cattle with various characteristics (e.g., quality and yield grades, weight, etc.) into a thicker (and thereby more representative) benchmark price series that may be confidently used as a reference price in formula contracts. You will be working as an integral part of a research team based at DASS. The Principal Investigators of this project are Drs. Mary Hendrickson, Teo Skevas, and Jason Franken. The primary project will involve working with a large proprietary dataset on transactions by the four largest packers to produce reports, presentations, and publications while using discretion to maintain confidentiality.

Minimum Qualification:

Ph.D. in economics, agricultural economics, or closely related field by time of appointment

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• Experience with micro-data and large datasets, hedonic analysis, and cattle markets
• Familiarity with STATA, R or similar statistical/mathematical tools.
• Evidence of the ability to conduct independent economic research and assume responsibility for development and completion of research presentations/papers/reports
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a research team, and work with other members of staff to meet the aims and deadlines of a project
• A track record in research and writing and the potential to develop further research expertise through various projects.

Applicants should submit:

1. A cover letter that states applicant's interest in the position and qualifications
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Transcripts
4. The names and email addresses of three references
5. One research sample

To apply go to: https://hr.missouri.edu/job-openings and search for Job ID 53892.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Jason Franken

Assistant Professor and MFA Chair in Agribusiness

Division of Applied Social Sciences, University of Missouri,

218 Mumford Hall, Columbia, MO 65211, P: 573-882-7909

E: frankenj@missouri.edu

This position is open until filled. We'll review applications as they come in.

Preferred start date: 01/01/2025

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, 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.

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In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research, and engagement.

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