The Department of Agricultural Biology at Colorado State University (CSU) is seeking a Research Scientist I or II to join its Potato Improvement Program in Fort Collins, CO. This is an exciting opportunity for plant scientists to contribute to applied breeding research that has a direct impact on growers, the agricultural industry, and food security.
With a competitive salary of $65,000–$66,000 annually plus comprehensive benefits, this full-time, in-person position allows researchers to lead innovative projects in field, greenhouse, and laboratory breeding environments.
About the Potato Improvement Program
The CSU Potato Breeding Program, led by Dr. Vamsi Nalam, focuses on developing improved potato varieties that address both grower and consumer needs. The program integrates traditional breeding methods with modern tools such as genomic selection, high-throughput phenotyping, and advanced data management platforms.
Researchers in this role will have the chance to collaborate with CSU faculty, USDA-ARS scientists, CPAC (Colorado Potato Administrative Committee), growers, and industry partners to achieve sustainable agricultural solutions.
Position Responsibilities
As a Research Scientist in the program, you will:
- Design and manage field, greenhouse, and laboratory experiments to support variety development.
- Execute crossing blocks, hybridizations, and early-generation selections.
- Collect and analyze large-scale phenotypic and genotypic datasets.
- Integrate molecular tools such as marker-assisted and genomic selection into breeding pipelines.
- Conduct multi-location trials and collaborate with stakeholders for variety evaluation.
- Train and supervise students, interns, and research staff.
- Contribute to grant proposals, scientific publications, and extension reports.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in plant breeding, genetics, or related field with relevant research or postdoctoral experience.
- Strong background in field-based plant breeding and data analysis.
- Effective communication skills with growers, scientists, and industry professionals.
- Familiarity with statistical methods, experimental design, and genomic tools.
- Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
- Legal authorization to work in the U.S. by Fall 2025 (no visa sponsorship available).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with clonally propagated crops (potato preferred).
- Background in genomic data analysis or bioinformatics.
- Familiarity with data platforms such as BreedBase, Medius.re, or FieldBook.
- Demonstrated success in grant writing and peer-reviewed publications.
- Experience with stakeholder engagement and on-farm research.
Why Work at CSU?
Colorado State University is a land-grant institution committed to teaching, research, and service. The Department of Agricultural Biology focuses on solving real-world challenges in entomology, plant pathology, and plant sciences.
Benefits include:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement plans
- Paid leave and flexible work-life balance programs
- Opportunities for professional growth and collaboration
- A supportive research environment in Fort Collins, one of the top-ranked U.S. cities to live in
Application Information
Deadline: October 15, 2025, by 11:59 pm (MT)
How to Apply: Submit your application online at CSU Jobs Portal with:- Cover Letter addressing qualifications
- Statement of Research Interests
- Resume or CV
- Contact information for 3 professional references
For inquiries, contact Dr. Vamsi Nalam (Vamsi.Nalam@colostate.edu )