Oklahoma State University is offering two fully funded graduate research assistantships (1 MS and 1 PhD) in the Small Farms and Urban Horticulture lab led by Dr. Shivani Kathi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. The research program focuses on improving vegetable crop production in open-field and semi-controlled environments, with an emphasis on sustainable production practices, biotic and abiotic stress management, plant health, yields, and nutrient quality. The assistantships are supported by the USDA National Needs Fellows (NNF) program, and only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible to apply due to funding requirements.

Graduate students will participate in hands-on research, teaching experience, collaboration with faculty, professional development, extension programming, community outreach, conference participation, and publication of research findings. The anticipated start date is Fall 2026.

Minimum qualifications include a B.S. (for MS) or M.S. (for PhD) in horticulture, plant and soil science, agronomy, or a related field, a minimum GPA of 3.0, proficiency in Microsoft suite, and the ability to work in both outdoor and laboratory settings. Applicants must meet Oklahoma State University Graduate School admission requirements and be motivated to work independently and as part of a team.

Funding includes a full assistantship with stipend and tuition waiver. To apply, email your CV, contact information for three references, unofficial transcripts, GRE scores, and a one-page cover letter describing research interests and career goals to Dr. Shivani Kathi at [email protected]. Application review begins immediately. For more details, visit the official job posting.