Position Title:
Research Scientist II
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience
Preferred Qualifications:
M.S. or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Soil Science, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or other related discipline.
Experience operating and maintaining high-end analytical instruments, including an isotope ratio mass spectrometer.
Experience developing and implementing SOPs and QA/QC programs.
Expertise in laboratory safety protocols and hazardous waste management.
Experience with managing fee-for-service programs including client relations, service agreements, and financial management.
Experience in budgeting and financial aspects of lab operations.
Experience with grant writing and securing research funding.
Job Description:
Dr. Richard Roth is seeking a highly motivated individual to join his team as a Research Scientist and Lab Manager. The ideal candidate will have experience in stable isotope research and analysis. In this role, you will oversee daily lab operations, including coordinating activities, managing supplies, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. You will operate and maintain analytical instruments such as the ThermoFisher EA IsoLink Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer and Seal Analytical AA500 segmented flow autoanalyzer, performing calibrations and troubleshooting. Additionally, you will manage the lab’s fee-for-service operations, handling client communications, budgeting, and service agreements. Your responsibilities will also include developing and implementing QA/QC programs, supporting research projects, and supervising lab personnel.
Join our team for a chance to engage in innovative agronomic research, including stable isotope enrichment studies. You’ll work with cutting-edge analytical equipment and have the freedom to pursue your own research topics and publish your findings. Iowa State University fosters a collaborative and innovative environment dedicated to making significant contributions to agronomy and society.
At Iowa State University, agronomy researchers are advancing society through groundbreaking research that addresses the agronomic challenges of the 21st century. From foundational studies on climate, soil, and plants to translational research leading to new innovations and solutions, our researchers collaborate across disciplines to improve agriculture and enhance lives in Iowa, the nation, and the world.
Responsibilities include:
- Coordinate daily lab activities, including scheduling, ordering supplies, maintaining inventory, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols and regulations.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for lab operations and oversee lab space allocation and equipment usage.
- Manage the lab’s digital presence, including website updates and social media, ensuring fee-for-service information stays up-to-date.
- Oversee the fee-for-service program, handling client communications, service agreements, billing, budgeting, financial aspects, contract negotiations, and client relationships.
- Operate and maintain high-end analytical instruments such as the ThermoFisher EA IsoLink IRMS and the Seal Analytical AA500 segmented flow autoanalyzer, performing routine calibrations, troubleshooting, and repairs.
- Develop, implement, and oversee QA/QC programs to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results, establishing and monitoring performance criteria for lab procedures and equipment.
- Develop and conduct small research projects, assist researchers with experimental design and data analysis, and collaborate with faculty and students on research initiatives.
- Assist with grant writing, submission processes, and preparation of research publications and presentations, presenting findings in lab meetings or conferences.
- Supervise and mentor lab technicians, interns, undergraduate, and graduate students with respect to lab activities.
This is a term position with opportunity for renewal.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.
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:
September 2, 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
