Research Associate I - Pathology

Colorado State University; Colorado; On-site; USD 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Research Associate I to join their vibrant team focused on plant pathology. This role involves leading innovative research projects, conducting experiments, and maintaining high standards of lab operations. With a commitment to transforming lives through research and education, this position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact in the field of agriculture. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in plant pathology or molecular biology, along with a passion for scientific inquiry and collaboration. Join a community dedicated to advancing knowledge and supporting growers in the San Luis Valley.

Benefits

Robust benefits package

Collaborative atmosphere

Focus on work-life balance

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in plant pathology or molecular biology required.
• Experience with record keeping and maintaining lab notebooks.

Responsibilities

• Lead field, greenhouse, and lab operations for plant pathology research.
• Design and conduct experiments to support scientific research.

Skills

Plant Pathology

Molecular Biology

Record Keeping

Data Analysis

Aseptic Techniques

Statistical Analysis

Education

Bachelor’s in Plant Pathology

Associate’s Degree in Plant Pathology

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

MS Office Suite

Thermal Cyclers

Microscopes

Job description

Special Instructions

For full consideration, please apply online by June 02, 2025, 11:59pm (MT). Complete applications include:

• Cover letter addressing required and preferred qualifications,
• Current resume, and
• Contact information for 2 professional references. References will not be contacted without prior notification to candidates.
• Optionally you may upload Unofficial transcripts or HS/GED certification. This may be requested of finalists at a later date for educational verification.

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. CSU is committed to full inclusion of qualified individuals. If you need assistance or accommodations with the search process, please reach out to the listed search contact.

Working Title

Research Associate I - Pathology

Position Location

Position is fully in-office/in-person

Research Professional Position

Yes

Posting Number

202500427AP

Position Type

Admin Professional/ Research Professional

Classification Title

Research Associate I

Number of Vacancies

1

Work Hours/Week

40

Proposed Annual Salary Range

$38,000 - $45,000

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.

Description of Work Unit

The San Luis Valley Research Center is part of a network of 7 research centers (10 sites) throughout the state. The first San Luis Valley Research Center was established in 1888 on 200 acres of state land near the Rio Grande River. The research center has a continuing commitment to the people of the San Luis Valley and the State of Colorado to provide research information, conduct extension education and seed certification programs. Current research and extension programs include potato pathology, crop management and field physiology, postharvest physiology, and seed certification.

Position Summary

The research associate will be responsible for leading field, greenhouse and laboratory operations under the supervision of the San Luis Valley Research Center Plant Pathologist. Essential responsibilities include: the design, execution and performance of projects to support scientific research and extension objectives of plant pathology lab; updating and maintaining data records; developing and maintaining lab and field protocols; operating and maintaining lab equipment including thermal cyclers, microscopes and working with project relevant software, maintaining the inventory of lab supplies and reagents, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness in all facilities (lab, greenhouse, equipment and workspaces).

Required Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in plant pathology, molecular biology, or related fields, OR Associate’s degree in plant pathology, molecular biology, or related fields plus 2 years of relevant specialized training or experience, OR High School Diploma (or GED) plus 4 years relevant, specialized training/experience in plant pathology and/or molecular biology.
• Demonstrated ability to use MS Office Suite.
• Ability to learn and master pathogen detection methods including morphological, molecular (PCR) and serological (ELISA) tools.
• Experience with record keeping and maintaining lab notebook.
• Current Colorado Commercial Qualified Supervisor Pesticide Applicator License, or a demonstrated ability to obtain within 60 days of employment.
• Must have a valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a driver’s license or access to a licensed driver by the employment start date.
• Ability to work a Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) schedule as necessary.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of this position include some medium lifting (50 lbs.), manual dexterity, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and handling.

Preferred Job Qualifications

• Experience with isolation of plant pathogens from diseased plant samples.
• Executing endpoint PCR or real-time quantitative PCR protocols.
• Development, execution and troubleshooting of research protocols.
• Knowledge of aseptic techniques and various growth media.
• Monitoring greenhouse or establishing field research plots.
• Statistical analysis knowledge and experience.

Job Duty Categories

Research

• Design and support plant pathology research projects by designing and executing field, laboratory and/or greenhouse experiments to test several hypotheses generated based on the needs of growers and other stakeholders.
• Design and conduct laboratory, field and greenhouse research projects related to disease management of potatoes and other crops grown in the San Luis Valley.
• The daily research activities and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, preparing growth media and stock solutions, maintaining high standards of cleanliness in all facilities, isolating plant pathogens, molecular detection of plant pathogens, conducting disease assays, evaluating plant diseases and working with pesticides to manage plant diseases.
• The purpose of the research conducted in the plant pathology laboratory at the San Luis Valley Research Center is to deliver research-based information for managing plant diseases in the face of climate change to growers and other stakeholders in the San Luis Valley.

Reporting

• Conduct analyses and synthesis of these data and provide summaries of research findings and activities by reporting and recording of experimental protocols and observations in appropriate digital forms to facilitate and improve research integrity and reproducibility.

Extension

• Assist PI in extension activities such as planning of field days to disseminate research-based information to growers.

Conditions of Employment

Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)

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.

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.

References Requested

Minimum Requested: 2

Maximum Requested: 2