Position Title:
Research Scientist II
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Graduate (e.g., Master’s) degree in a related field.
At least 3 years of research experience in molecular sciences.
Experience mentoring students or other employees.
Lab management experience, including responsibilities such as equipment maintenance and complying with safety policies.
Experience with biochemical and biophysical studies of enzymes.
Experience investigating the physiological functions of natural products in plant-microbe interactions using reverse genetic approaches.
Job Description:
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist II to join our dynamic research team. This full-time position involves conducting independent research, mentoring and assisting undergraduate and graduate students, and laboratory management.
The Peters laboratory is focused on the large class of diterpenoid natural products, largely those falling within the labdane-related superfamily. Bioactivity of these ~15,000 known compounds ranges from the gibberellic acid (GA) hormones ubiquitously found in higher/flowering plants to natural antibiotics, and includes compounds of pharmaceutical and industrial relevance.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Lead and contribute to research on biochemical and biophysical studies of enzymes involved in diterpenoid biosynthesis.
- Lead and/or contribute to research on the physiological function of these natural products in plant-microbe interactions using reverse genetic approaches.
- Maintain and manage laboratory, ensuring proper operation of research equipment and plant growth facilities, as well as compliance with EH&S policies.
- Oversee and coordinate the use and distribution of laboratory supplies, equipment, and research inventory (e.g., plasmids, cell lines, plant lines).
- Mentor and assist undergraduate and graduate students in research techniques and project development.
This position presents a unique and exciting opportunity to join a renowned lab at the forefront of terpenoid and plant natural product research. Backed by a strong history of funding, our lab conducts pioneering research in biochemistry, chemical ecology, and plant-microbe interactions. You will benefit from numerous professional development opportunities, including travel and participation in scientific conferences both nationally and internationally.
For guaranteed consideration, please apply by midnight on March 6, 2025. The position will remain open until filled.
This is a term position with an opportunity for renewal.
Level Guidelines
• Intermediate-level position with solid professional and/or technical skills working under general supervision to achieve goals
• Applies broad, working knowledge of the principles of the field to moderately complex, difficult, and varied problems and issues
• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action and resolve problems
• Responds to a broad range of inquiries and requests
• May provide training and/or direction to lower-level staff
• May lead projects of moderate scope and complexity
• Provides guidance to students
Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)
Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
March 31, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
PS808
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:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
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.
For guaranteed consideration, please apply by midnight on March 6, 2025.
Why Choose ISU?
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
Original Posting Date:
February 25, 2025
