Postdoc Research Associate – Plasmodium Cell Biology

Iowa State University - College of Design; Ames, Northern (IA, KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University in Ames, IA seeks a Postdoc Research Associate in Plasmodium Cell Biology to lead and support malaria parasite studies, focusing on gametogenesis and transmission. The role involves independent research using genetic, molecular, and microscopy methods, plus mentoring students.

The successful candidate will design experiments, analyze data, and contribute to manuscripts, grant work, and collaborations, supported by the Biomedical Sciences program.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Life Sciences or a closely related field required.
• Evidence of first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience in genetic manipulation and microscopy-based imaging approaches.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support research focused on Plasmodium falciparum cell biology, with emphasis on gametogenesis and malaria transmission.
• Design experiments, analyze data, and prepare manuscripts and reports.
• Present findings and contribute to grant-funded projects.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in a collaborative research environment.

Skills

Genetic manipulation

Microscopy imaging

Education

Ph.D. in Life Sciences (or related)

Job description

## Postdoc Research Associate – Plasmodium Cell BiologyApply: Ames, IA: Full time: Posted Today: R20072## Position Title:Postdoc Research Associate – Plasmodium Cell Biology## Appointment Type:Post Doc/Trainee## Job Description:**Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:** The Postdoctoral Research Associate will lead, and support research focused on *Plasmodium falciparum* cell biology, with an emphasis on gametogenesis and malaria transmission. The successful candidate will develop and conduct independent research utilizing genetic, molecular, and microscopy-based approaches to investigate parasite development and fertility. Responsibilities include experimental design, data analysis, preparation of manuscripts and reports, presentation of research findings, and contribution to grant-funded projects. The position will also provide opportunities to mentor undergraduate and graduate students while working in a collaborative research environment focused on advancing the understanding of malaria parasite biology and identifying innovative approaches to disease intervention. **Required Minimum Qualifications:*** Ph.D. in Life Sciences or a closely related field by the start date.* Evidence of first-author publications in peer-reviewed scholarly journals. **Preferred Qualifications:*** Experience in genetic manipulation and microscopy-based imaging approaches.* Research experience in molecular parasitology, molecular genetics, RNA biology, chromatin biology, or related disciplines. **Department/Program & College Description:** Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University. The department conducts innovative research and graduate training in cellular, molecular, and biomedical sciences to advance animal and human health. **Department Unit/Website:** Biomedical Sciences - Biomedical Sciences **Application Instructions:** To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:* Resume/Curriculum Vitae* Letter of Application/Cover Letter **Why Choose Iowa State University?** Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:* Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans* Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans* Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)* Life insurance and long-term disability* Flexible Spending Accounts* Various voluntary benefits and discounts* Employee Assistance Program* Wellbeing program* Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager. If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [e-mail], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.## Proposed Start Date:December 1, 2026## Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period## Time Type:Full time## Pay Grade:Post Docs## Original Posting Date:October 9, 2026## Posting Close Date:October 23, 2026## Job Requisition Number:R20072Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail] ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.