Post doctoral Scientist

Colorado State University; United States; On-site; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Colorado State University seeks a Postdoctoral Scientist to lead nutrient composition analyses using standardized methods and collaborate across a multidisciplinary team within the Optimizing Human Health and Nutrition from Soil to Society project.

The role involves coordinating analyses, interpreting results, mentoring undergraduate researchers, and presenting findings at conferences and meetings. Strong background in LC-MS/MS and metabolomics is essential.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in horticulture, biochemistry, food science, analytical chemistry, or a closely related field completed by start date.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with project scientists to develop sample collection plans, experimental designs, analytical strategies, and project timelines.

Skills

Ph.D. in horticulture/biochemistry/FOo

LC-MS/MS operation

Metabolomics data analysis

QA/QC for MS

Scientific writing

Independent work management

Education

Ph.D. in horticulture, biochemistry, food science, analytical chemistry

Tools

LC-MS/MS

Mass spectrometry

R

Job description

Job Description Position Summary: The Postdoctoral Scientist will lead nutrient composition analyses using standardized methods developed by the Periodic Table of Food Initiative. This individual will collaborate with scientists across the Washington Research Foundation–funded Optimizing Human Health and Nutrition from Soil to Society project to coordinate analyses, interpret results, and support interdisciplinary research objectives.

Essential Job Duties

• Collaborate with project scientists to develop sample collection plans, experimental designs, analytical strategies, and project timelines.
• Coordinate and perform sample preparation and analysis using standardized Periodic Table of Food Initiative analytical methods.
• Conduct data processing, statistical analysis, and interpretation in collaboration with interdisciplinary research teams.
• Lead the preparation of manuscripts and contribute to collaborative publications arising from project research.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences, project meetings, and other professional forums.
• Mentor and supervise undergraduate research assistants involved in project activities.

Conditions of Employment

Pre-employment Criminal Background Check. Authorized to work in the United States by employment start date.

Supervision

The Postdoctoral Scientist will supervise and mentor undergraduate research assistants who provide laboratory support for project-related sample preparation and analysis. Responsibilities will include assigning tasks, providing training, monitoring performance, and ensuring adherence to laboratory protocols and quality‑control procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in horticulture, biochemistry, food science, analytical chemistry, or a closely related field completed by the position start date.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience operating and maintaining high‑resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry systems, including instrument setup, data acquisition, routine performance evaluation, and troubleshooting.
• Experience developing, optimizing, and validating targeted LC‑MS/MS methods.
• Experience processing, analyzing, and interpreting nontargeted metabolomics data.
• Knowledge of appropriate quality‑assurance and quality‑control practices for mass spectrometry‑based analyses.
• Evidence of strong written scientific communication, as demonstrated through peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, a dissertation, or other scholarly products.
• Ability to work independently while effectively managing multiple samples, analyses, and project deadlines.
• Ability to safely operate standard laboratory equipment used for sample preparation and analysis, including pipettes, balances, centrifuges, extraction equipment, liquid chromatography systems, and mass spectrometers.
• Ability to follow established laboratory safety procedures and work with biological samples, solvents, and other chemicals while using required personal protective equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience applying mass spectrometry‑based analytical methods to foods, agricultural products, plant materials, or other complex biological matrices.
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with scientists from multiple disciplines and communicating analytical findings to researchers with varied technical backgrounds.
• Proficiency using the R statistical computing environment for data management, visualization, statistical analysis, and reproducible research.
• Experience developing or implementing standardized analytical protocols and quality‑control procedures across large or complex sample sets.
• Demonstrated record of preparing peer‑reviewed manuscripts and presenting research findings at scientific meetings.
• Experience supervising or mentoring undergraduate students, research assistants, or other laboratory personnel.
• Strong organizational and project‑management skills, including experience coordinating analytical activities across multiple collaborators or research objectives.

Salary Range

$60,000 - $65,000

Required Application Documents

• 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.

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.