We are looking for a Researcher in Fertigation and Nutrient management to join the Efficient Use of Water in Agriculture Program team, based in Lleida. We offer the opportunity to be part of an organization with a dynamic, collaborative work environment focused on professional development.
The successful candidate will lead and implement research projects and collaborative contracts focused on the interaction between irrigation, fertilization and soil management. This includes advancing knowledge and innovation in fertigation strategies, nutrient dynamics in soil-plant systems, and the process governing nutrient transport and nitrate leaching under different irrigation regimes. Emphasis is placed on applied research on these topics and transfer of the outcomes to the agricultural sector
Tasks and Responsibilities:
- To lead a research line focused on the interaction between irrigation, fertilization, and soil management, with particular emphasis on fertigation strategies, nitrate leaching processes, and nutrient transport dynamics within the soil profile. This includes improving water and nutrient use efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts (e.g., groundwater contamination, nutrient losses), under current and future climate scenarios.
- To contribute to other activities of the research Program, performing scientific and technical tasks, taking part in the planning and execution of the experiments to ensure the achievement of milestones of research projects.
- To contribute to the scientific production of the research and innovation activities of the Program.
- To lead and actively contribute fund rising through the preparation and submission of project proposals for public competitive calls and for contracts with the private sector, as well reporting process, such as writing progress and final reports of research activities.
- To identify opportunities for cutting-edge research and innovation to address strategic priorities of the research program on Efficient Use of Water in Agriculture.
- To contribute to the teamwork and team-spirit in the research program on Efficient Use of Water in Agriculture, fostering collaboration and integration activities.
- To create synergies with other research programs at IRTA.
Required qualifications and experience
- PhD dealing with the efficient use of water and fertilizers in irrigated crops.
- Demonstrated scientific production in this research topic in peer-reviewed journals.
- Experience on applied research in this research topic.
- Hands-on experience in field data collection and proficiency with soil and plant sensors.
- Proved research skills: experience on project proposal writing, literature review, experimental design and implementation, data analysis, scientific article writing.
- Dissemination skills: presentation/communication skills, and technical writing.
- Capacity to successfully develop collaborative research links with national and international research organizations, and the ability to interact closely with private companies and irrigation district managers.
- Full driving license for Europe and travelling availability.
- Knowledge of English
- Strong teamwork skills, ability to adapt to multidisciplinary environments and a focus on professional growth and development.
Desirable requirements
- Research experience with Precision Irrigation/Fertilization and the involved digital technologies, such as application of sensors, remote sensing and GIS.
- Experience in crop and/or water and solute transport models (ie. Hydrus).
- Applied experience in fertilization practices and soil management.
- Practical experience in managing and optimizing irrigation systems and fertigation heads.
- Experience and knowledge in water management in Spain, including work with irrigation districts.
- Experience in dissemination and transfer of knowledge to farmers and technicians.
- Skills in data management and analysis.
- Demonstrating an attractive publication record and participation in funded projects.
- Network of collaborators at a national and/or international level.
- Proven experience in technical and scientific initiatives, at an international level, and eventually national level.
- A proactive profile, solutions-focused approach to work, with ability to adapt to changing requirements.
- Capacity to perform high quality work and commitment.
- Languages (Catalan and Spanish)
Advantages of joining our team:
- Contract: permanent full-time position or IRTA Consolida (tenure track) position subject to the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
- Salary: To be resolved according to the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate
- 37.5 hour workweek, with Friday afternoons off
- Intensive work schedule from 15/06 to 15/09
- 23 vacation days
- 3 days of family & work conciliation
- 45 hours of personal days
- Remote work 6 workdays per month
- Flexible Schedule for a good work-life balance.
- Continuous training and professional growth opportunities.
Please know that if you are the chosen candidate and you are from a country which does not belong to the UE, IRTA’s People Department will support you to get the residence and working permits.
Instructions to Apply
If you wish to be considered for this position and believe you meet the requirements, please submit your application through the form available at the bottom of this page.
Equal treatment and equal opportunities are guaranteed for all candidates in the selection process, avoiding stereotypes, bias or barriers linked to gender, sexual orientation, origin, age, ideology, or any other potentially discriminatory condition. The organization also ensures inclusion commitment toward vulnerable groups, and the first round of the selection process is reserved for candidates with functional diversity.
Selection Process:
Curricular assessment: The candidate’s qualifications and merits will be evaluated according to the criteria established in the job offer.
Interview(s): These will be conducted by a Selection Committee to assess the candidate’s suitability in terms of professional experience and competencies.
Additional tests (if applicable): Depending on the position profile and the needs of the process, specific competency-based tests and/or a psychometric test may be included in order to more accurately assess the suitability of the candidates.
Start of contract: september 2026 (approximately)
