Iowa State University’s Department of Veterinary Pathology in Ames, IA is seeking a highly motivated full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate to support interdisciplinary research on prion biology, transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, and disease-associated protein misfolding. The role involves designing and conducting laboratory experiments, developing antibody-based and biochemical assays, evaluating protein capture and detection approaches, and analyzing quantitative data — working with tissues and potentially infectious materials under strict biosafety protocols. Additional duties include maintaining research records, preparing protocols and reports, contributing to publications and presentations, and collaborating on emerging diagnostic technologies. The position offers a multidisciplinary environment alongside scientists at Iowa State and the National Animal Disease Center.

Key qualifications:

• Required: Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biomedical Sciences, or closely related field (completed by start date)
• Required: Research experience in protein biochemistry, immunological assays, or related molecular/cellular lab methods
• Experience with prion biology, protein misfolding disorders, immunoassay development/validation, protein purification/affinity capture, infectious materials under biosafety procedures, and peer-reviewed publications preferred
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship; employment contingent on federal security background check and facility access authorization

Salary and benefits: Comprehensive health and work-life benefits including medical and dental, retirement plans (defined benefit and contribution), generous vacation/holiday/sick leave, onsite childcare, life insurance, long-term disability, FSAs, EAP, wellbeing program, and WorkFlex options for some positions.

Dates: Proposed start November 2, 2026; posting closes November 4, 2026.

To apply: Click “Apply” and complete the Employment Application with a Resume/CV and Letter of Application/Cover Letter at: https://isu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/IowaStateJobs/job/Ames-IA/Postdoc-Research-Associate—Veterinary-Pathology_R20067?jobFamilyGroup=ad349100dff401e4977b360b060a32e3