Research Scientist I - Seed Health and Testing

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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.

What You'll Do

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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?

The Seed Science Center is internationally recognized for leadership in seed science education, research, testing, and technology transfer. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative seed conditioning programs while working with researchers, students, and industry professionals dedicated to improving seed quality worldwide.

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 [email protected], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

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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. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email [email protected].

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.