Research Scientist​/Scholar , II, III or Senior - Pool

Research Scientist Positions

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Colorado State University seeks applications for temporary or special Research Scientist I, II, III, or Senior positions.

Research Scientists work under the direction of individual faculty members and contribute to ongoing research activities specific to each lab. Duties, funding source, appointment length, and work modality (in-person, hybrid, or remote) vary by faculty lab.

The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the Department has limited funds and may not sponsor a new H1B visa for this position.

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. (MT) on August 16, 2026.

$45,000 - $90,000

Any signing bonus, up to $2,500, must be approved on a case-by-case basis by the hiring laboratory and departmental leadership.

Essential job duties vary depending on the hiring laboratory and research program, but may include:

• Conducting laboratory, field, or computational research activities
• Collecting, managing, and analyzing research data
• Assisting with experimental design and protocol implementation
• Maintaining laboratory equipment, materials, and documentation
• Contributing to manuscripts, reports, and presentations
• Collaborating with faculty, staff, graduate students, and other research personnel

Specific duties will be defined at the time of hire by the supervising faculty member.

Pre-employment criminal background check (required for new hires)

This position reports to a faculty member within the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Day-to-day supervision and expectations are defined by the hiring laboratory.

Ph.D. degree in an appropriate discipline by the start date

Research Scientist I:
Within three years of receiving their Ph.D. and with limited scientific research experience.

Research Scientist II:
Analogous to the Assistant Professor title for regular faculty. It generally includes people with more than 3 years of relevant professional experience beyond the Ph.D. and with significant professional accomplishments*.

Research Scientist III & Senior Research Scientist:
Significant number of years of experience beyond the Ph.D. and extremely significant and extraordinary accomplishments*

* Ranking is done on an individual basis using factors such as publication record, past research funding, professional honors and awards, decisive discoveries and management experience.

Preferred qualifications vary by laboratory and may include:

• Prior research experience in a relevant biological discipline.
• Experience with laboratory, field, or computational research methods.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Experience with data analysis, scientific writing, or specialized research techniques relevant to the hiring lab.

This is an evergreen posting. Applications will be reviewed as hiring needs arise, and qualified applicants may be contacted by individual faculty members if a suitable opportunity becomes available. To apply, submit a cover letter which addresses the minimum and preferred qualifications, and a current resume or CV. References may be contacted later in the hiring process, and will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.

This pool will expire on August 16, 2026. Applicants wishing to be considered beyond this date must reapply.

Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.