[Open] Junior Agronomist
Position Title: Junior Agronomist
Department: Centre for Water Informatics and Technology (WIT), LUMS
Report to: Dr. Abubakr Muhammad
Job Level: 3 Months/Full Time
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in agriculture (Agronomy/Horticulture/Soil Science or related subject)
Experience: Fresh Graduate or 1 Year Work Experience
Deadline: September 30, 2026
Apply at: hrwit@lums.edu.pk
Position Purpose:
The Junior Research Assistant/Intern will support soil and irrigation-related research activities, including soil sample collection, laboratory measurements, and working with soil moisture sensors. The role will also support irrigation advisory and farmer capacity-building activities, requiring practical knowledge of soil types, textures, soil-water behaviour, and crop production technologies for field crops and major orchards.
The selected candidate will assist in field and laboratory activities, maintain accurate records of soil and sensor measurements, and support the implementation of irrigation advisory activities with farmers and field teams.
- Collect soil samples from research and farmers’ fields and prepare them for laboratory analysis and soil moisture measurements.
- Assist in soil moisture sensor calibration and validation using soil samples, GWC/VWC measurements, and established research protocols.
- Operate, monitor, install, and maintain soil moisture sensors and related field equipment.
- Accurately record, organize, and maintain soil, sensor, laboratory, and field data, including basic analysis and visualization using Excel.
- Support irrigation advisory activities by interpreting soil moisture data, field conditions, and crop water requirements.
- Conduct farmer capacity-building activities, demonstrations, and field visits related to efficient irrigation and water management.
- Apply knowledge of crop production technologies for major field crops and orchards to support field-level irrigation recommendations.
- Assess and interpret different soil types and textures, including their water-holding capacity, infiltration, drainage, and overall soil-water behaviour.
- Coordinate with research and field teams during soil sampling, sensor deployment, data collection, irrigation advisory, and farmer engagement activities.
- Prepare and maintain field and laboratory documentation, reports, and records while ensuring compliance with project protocols, procedures, and safety guidelines.
Knowledge: Strong understanding of soil-water relationships and all major crop stages
Skills and Attributes:
- Soil sampling and basic soil laboratory techniques
- Knowledge of soil types, textures, and physical properties
- GWC and VWC measurement and calculations
- Knowledge of irrigation scheduling and crop water requirements
- Understanding of crop production technologies for major field crops and orchards
- Apart from technical knowledge, the candidate should be able to interact respectfully and patiently with farming communities, understand and respect local norms and practices, and effectively coordinate with farmers to ensure smooth and successful field activities.
Travel: Occasional
Work Schedule: Standard 40 Hours per week
Work Environment: Field Work
