About the role

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Molecular Immunology & Translational Animal Models

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The postdoctoral research associate will conduct research using molecular assays to characterize immune system changes associated with genetic mutations in the pig genome (Aim 1A). The postdoctoral candidate will also perform molecular and cellular analyses on human cells and porcine tissues to evaluate the effects of introducing human cells into mutant pigs, including assessment of human immune system development and tissue interactions (Aim 1B).

The postdoctoral candidate will assist research staff with sample collection, support maintenance and care of pigs in biocontainment facilities, and contribute to herd management on ISU farms.

Additionally, the postdoctoral research associate will develop, write, and submit manuscripts for publication describing research findings and project outcomes.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. in molecular biology, immunology, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in swine immunology
Experience with scRNA-seq data generation and analysis
Experience handling, bleeding, and caring for pigs

Department/Program & College Description:
Iowa State University has a proud history of 9 decades of innovative animal genetics and genomics research, education, and outreach, tracing back to the pioneering days of Lush and Hazel. Many of today’s animal breeders worldwide can trace their academic pedigree back to Iowa State University.

Department Unit/Website:
Animal Breeding & Genetics | Department of Animal Science

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

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:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
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
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

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.

Proposed Start Date:

August 3, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

Post Docs

Original Posting Date:

May 22, 2026

Posting Close Date:

May 31, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19222

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

Aplyr's read

Iowa State University is a hub for diverse academic and operational roles, attracting professionals dedicated to education, research, and community engagement.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising