Conduct seed health testing and diagnostics to determine the presence or absence of plant pathogens using laboratory methods such as blotter tests, agar-based assays, dilution plating, and ELISA testing.
Contribute to the development, standardization, and continuous improvement of seed health testing protocols and diagnostic procedures.
Ensure accurate, timely, and reliable laboratory results by following standard operating procedures, quality assurance practices, and National Seed Health System standards.
Maintain laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, chemical and supply inventory management, and overall laboratory organization.
Train and mentor student employees in laboratory techniques, equipment operation, safety procedures, and best practices.
Collaborate with faculty, staff, industry partners, and stakeholders to support seed health testing, research, and educational programs.
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Seed Science, Plant Science, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
Experience conducting seed health testing, seed pathology diagnostics, plant disease identification, or other laboratory-based pathogen detection methods.
At least one year of experience working in a high-volume laboratory testing environment.
Experience preparing selective agar media, dilution plating bacteria, and performing ELISA assays.
Experience interpreting diagnostic test results and maintaining accurate laboratory records.
Working knowledge of standard operating procedures, quality assurance practices, and laboratory safety protocols.
Why Join Us?
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position .
For guaranteed consideration, please apply before June 25th, 2026.
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
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Appointment Type:
Regular
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
PS807
Original Posting Date:
June 8, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R19374
General 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.
Benefits
Health insuranceDental insurancePaid time offFlexible schedule
Additional Information
Position Title:
Research Scientist I - Seed Health and Testing
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree
Job Description:
The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist I to support the Center's programs in seed science, research, education, and industry engagement. This early-career professional will have the opportunity to contribute to advancing seed quality through seed health testing, diagnostic services, applied research, laboratory operations, technical training, and stakeholder outreach. The successful candidate will join a collaborative team that supports students, researchers, seed industry professionals, and clients from around the world.
Iowa State University · Ames, IA