Research Associate

The Research Associate will support multiple research projects in environmental microbiology and bioengineering. Responsibilities include conducting laboratory and analytical experiments, maintaining instruments, preparing samples, performing DNA extractions and sequencing workflows, analyzing data, and assisting with manuscript preparation. The position also supports lab organization, inventory, student training, and safety compliance.

In addition to research responsibilities, the position will assist with instructional support for CE563 Environmental Engineering Fundamentals, including helping prepare laboratory materials, supporting lab activities, assisting with grading, and providing student guidance during designated instructional periods. The employee will also contribute to reporting for sponsored projects and support collaborative research within the department.

Kansas State University's Carl R. Ice College of Engineering is the oldest and largest engineering program in Kansas, nationally recognized for excellence in education, research, and service. The College is committed to addressing critical societal challenges-including water sustainability and resilience-through innovation, collaboration, and community engagement.

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree and two years of relevant experience in laboratory research and data analysis
• Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager.
• The degree requirement ensures candidates possess advanced research skills, data analysis expertise and scientific writing ability in order to independently execute complex research tasks, interpret findings and contribute to scholarly publications. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential learning inherent in a formal degree program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in molecular biology (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing)
• Experience with microbial cultivation
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Additional Role Information:

• Laboratory environment, ability to lift up to 25 lbs, operate instruments, perform repetitive laboratory procedures, work at a computer for extended periods, and follow chemical and biosafety procedures.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Please submit the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae

Applications close on: December 26, 2025

$50,000