Postdoctoral Research Associate - Reproductive Biology and Fertility Research

Proposed start date: August 31, 2026. Full-time, 12-month appointment.

About the role

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct independent and collaborative research in male reproductive biology, with a primary focus on livestock species, including swine and cattle. The position supports a research program focused on understanding sperm function and fertility through the application of advanced reproductive, molecular, and computational techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments in reproductive biology.
• Analyze and interpret research data.
• Prepare biological samples for laboratory analyses.
• Utilize flow cytometry and imaging technologies to investigate sperm phenotypes and function.
• Contribute to peer-reviewed publications, grant reporting, and scientific presentations.
• Work closely with the Principal Investigator and research team to advance funded research projects and develop new areas of investigation.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
• Support laboratory operations and foster a collaborative research environment.

Requirements

• PhD in Animal Science for Genetics & Genomics or other related field.
• Legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in proteomic data analysis and laboratory bench work related to proteomics.
• Experience operating image-based flow cytometry platforms and analyzing resulting datasets.
• Experience interpreting complex biological datasets and integrating findings into research projects.

About the Department

The Animal Science Department at Iowa State University integrates science, practice, and innovation to serve the immediate needs of animal industries. Faculty direct programs that provide new knowledge and information to confront future challenges in animal sciences.

Department of Animal Science

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental.
• 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.
• WorkFlex options for flexibility in when, where, and how work is performed.