Research Associate II

The Nalam Laboratory at Colorado State University is hiring a Research Associate II to support research on potato diseases, plant–pathogen–vector interactions, molecular plant pathology, and resistance screening. The position will contribute to projects focused on Potato mop-top virus resistance screening, molecular diagnostics, and functional genomics, with responsibilities that include laboratory and greenhouse experiments, data collection and analysis, protocol development, and student training in a collaborative research environment.

Full Consideration Date

Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (MT)

Description of Work Unit

The Department of Agricultural Biology is committed to excellence in the creation and dissemination of knowledge about insects, plant pathogens, and weeds in agricultural, natural, and urban ecosystems. Our mission is to enhance human well-being by improving ecosystem sustainability. In addition to generating new knowledge, we apply knowledge in entomology, plant pathology, and plant sciences to solving practical problems related to biotic and abiotic plant stress, integrated pest management, and ecosystem health. People in Agricultural Biology participate in and value cooperative and collaborative efforts with other units within the University, as well as with individual stakeholders and other organizations in Colorado and beyond. We hold ourselves to a standard of excellence in teaching, research, extension, and service and act according to the Principles of Community. https://agsci.colostate.edu/agbio/

Essential Job Duties

• The individual will plan and develop experimental techniques and protocols.
• They will design and construct the required experimental equipment when necessary.
• The individual will plant, maintain, sample, and harvest greenhouse and/or field experiments, collect, record, summarize experimental data, and analyze experimental data when appropriate.
• The RA will train and supervise undergraduate students in various laboratory and greenhouse-based experiments

Supervision

• The RA will train and supervise undergraduate students in various laboratory and greenhouse-based experiments

Minimum Qualifications

• MS in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Agriculture, or a related field
• Up to 2 years of research laboratory experience in molecular biology, plant pathology, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and train or mentor students and laboratory personnel.
• Demonstrated experience with molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, nucleic acid extraction, plasmid preparation, bacterial culture, and cloning.
• Experience with data collection, statistical analysis, data management, and presentation of scientific results.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with plant pathogens, plant viruses, or molecular diagnostics.
• Experience with RT-qPCR, ddPCR, or other advanced molecular diagnostic techniques.
• Experience preparing scientific reports, presentations, figures, and manuscripts.
• Experience supervising or mentoring undergraduate students, graduate students, or research personnel.

Conditions of Employment

• Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for all new hires)
• Valid driver's license or access to qualified driver by employment start date.
• Authorized to work in the United States by employment start date.

Application Instructions

All applications are to be submitted online via the CSU Job Board. Please include: 1) Cover letter - a letter of interest including a brief summary outlining experience and qualifications for this position, 2) a complete C.V., and 3) University transcripts (copies or unofficial transcripts are acceptable). References will be requested from finalists and will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates. For inquiries about the position, contact Search Chair Vamsi.Nalam@colostate.edu . For additional information about Colorado State University, consult the university’s website at www.colostate.edu .

Salary Range

$40,000-$45,000

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.
• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
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Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.