Postdoc Research Associate – Plasmodium Cell Biology

Iowa State University - College of Design; United States; On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits including defined

Vacation and sick time

Onsite childcare

Life insurance

Long-term disability

Flexible Spending Accounts

Employee Assistance Program

Wellbeing program

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate focused on Plasmodium falciparum cell biology, with emphasis on gametogenesis and transmission. You will develop independent research using genetic, molecular, and microscopy approaches to study parasite development and fertility.

The role includes experimental design, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and presenting findings, with opportunities to mentor students in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Life Sciences or closely related field by the start date.
• Evidence of first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Design experiments and lead research on Plasmodium falciparum cell biology.
• Analyze data and contribute to manuscript preparation and reports.
• Present research findings and contribute to grant-funded projects.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students within a collaborative team.

Education

PhD in Life Sciences or closely related field

Job description

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

• Experimental design
• Data analysis
• Preparation of manuscripts and reports
• Presentation of research findings
• 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.

Location and Work Arrangement

Prospective start date: December 1, 2026.

Number of months employed per year: 12.

Month work period time type: Full time.

Pay grade: Post Docs.

Posting type: Original Posting Date: October 9, 2026; Posting Close Date: October 23, 2026; Job Requisition Number: R20072.

Benefits

• 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

Equal Opportunity Statement

Iowa 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.

Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email [e-mail] or call [phone] or Toll-Free: [phone].