Research fellow - and biology

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.
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. 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.

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

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.
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.
Application Instructions
All applications are to be submitted online via the CSU Job Board. and 3) University transcripts (copies or unofficial transcripts are acceptable). For additional information about Colorado State University, consult the university's website at
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.
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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.
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.