University of Missouri Opens Applications for Post-Doctoral Fellowships in Agricultural Economics and Rural Finance @Doctoral Fellowships in Agricultural Economics and Rural Finance

The University of Missouri is inviting applications for two Post-Doctoral Fellow positions within its Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF), offering an exceptional opportunity for emerging researchers interested in agricultural economics, policy analysis, and rural financial resilience. Based at the university’s Columbia campus, the positions are designed to support innovative research that informs agricultural policy and strengthens the financial sustainability of farming communities across the United States.

The appointments will place successful candidates at the forefront of research examining the economic and financial challenges facing farmers and ranchers. Through collaborative and data-driven analysis, the fellows will contribute to efforts that help policymakers, industry stakeholders, and agricultural producers better understand the impacts of policy decisions and market developments.

Supporting Evidence-Based Agricultural Policy

The Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center plays a critical role in providing data, research, and policy analysis to members of the U.S. Congress and a wide range of agricultural stakeholders. Through a coordinated multi-state research effort, the center evaluates how changing policies, market conditions, and innovations influence agricultural profitability and long-term financial resilience.

Working under the mentorship of Dr. Alejandro Plastina, postdoctoral fellows will join a multidisciplinary team committed to producing practical research that supports informed decision-making across the agricultural sector. The fellowship offers an environment where scholars can apply advanced economic methods to real-world policy questions while expanding their academic and professional expertise.

Key Responsibilities of the Fellowship

The selected fellows will undertake a variety of research and analytical tasks designed to advance understanding of agricultural financial systems and policy outcomes. Responsibilities will include:

• Developing and improving state-level farm income models.
• Enhancing regional agricultural lending portfolio models.
• Designing analytical tools for policy and market assessments.
• Monitoring evolving agricultural policies and market trends.
• Collaborating with stakeholders, researchers, and industry experts.
• Publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals and policy reports.
• Delivering presentations and developing decision-support tools.
• Participating in grant development and proposal writing activities.
• Engaging in mentorship and collaborative research initiatives.

These responsibilities provide fellows with valuable experience in both academic research and policy-oriented analysis, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to agricultural development.

Research Focus Areas

The fellowship is particularly suited for scholars interested in applied economic analysis and econometric modeling. Candidates with expertise in agricultural markets, commodity price analysis, farm policy, and financial systems will be well positioned to contribute to the center’s ongoing projects.

Preferred areas of experience include:

• Structural economic modeling.
• Partial equilibrium modeling.
• Agricultural commodity market analysis.
• Farm profitability assessments.
• Supply and demand estimation.
• Econometric analysis and forecasting.
• Data management and quantitative research.
• Agricultural lending and rural finance.

Researchers with experience evaluating production costs, profit margins, equilibrium prices, and market outcomes are especially encouraged to apply.

Eligibility and Qualifications

Applicants must hold a doctorate in agricultural economics, economics, statistics, or a closely related field with a strong emphasis on applied econometrics by the time of appointment.

In addition to academic credentials, candidates will be assessed based on their:

• Knowledge of U.S. agricultural practices, policies, and markets.
• Experience conducting applied economic research.
• Proficiency in R programming and Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to communicate complex findings effectively.
• Record of academic publications and presentations.
• Experience engaging with policymakers, producers, or agribusiness stakeholders.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are considered essential, particularly for translating quantitative research into practical recommendations for diverse audiences.

Professional Development Opportunities

One of the most attractive aspects of the fellowship is its emphasis on professional growth and career development. RaFF actively supports postdoctoral researchers through opportunities to publish scholarly work, present at academic conferences, and mentor students.

Fellows will also be encouraged to lead independent research projects aligned with the center’s mission. This supportive environment allows early-career researchers to strengthen their publication records, expand professional networks, and build leadership experience in agricultural policy research.

Appointment Details

The initial appointment is for 12 months, with strong potential for renewal based on performance and available funding. The start date is flexible, although a Fall 2026 commencement is preferred.

The positions are located at the University of Missouri’s Columbia campus, providing fellows access to a vibrant academic community and extensive research resources.

Application Process

Interested candidates are required to submit a single PDF application package containing:

1. A cover letter outlining research achievements, interests, and career goals.
2. A current curriculum vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for three professional references.

Shortlisted applicants may be requested to provide additional references or academic transcripts during the selection process.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will continue until the positions are filled.

Comprehensive Benefits and Equal Opportunity Commitment

The University of Missouri offers a comprehensive employee benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, and educational fee discounts across all four campuses within the University of Missouri System.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the university remains committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. Applicants requiring accommodations during the recruitment process may request support through the university’s accessibility services.

These postdoctoral fellowships represent a valuable opportunity for researchers seeking to influence agricultural policy, contribute to rural economic resilience, and advance their careers within a leading research institution.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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