Postdoctoral Research Associate - Research in Meat Science

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

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About The Position

The Department of Animal Science in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral research scientist in meat science and meat and muscle proteomics. This position presents an exciting opportunity to lead cutting-edge research on the quality of pork and beef. The successful candidate will be responsible for generating multi-omics data (proteomic, metabolomic, and related omics such as lipidomics and/or volatilomics) from large sample libraries; performing in-depth analysis of proteins, peptides, and small molecules in beef and pork products that vary in consumer quality; and applying machine learning techniques to predict fresh meat quality based on proteomic, metabolomic, and peptidomic profiles. Applicants with complementary expertise in mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, lipidomics, volatilomics, and/or sensory and flavor chemistry are strongly encouraged to apply. The objectives of this work are to: 1) Develop a more complete understanding of proteomic and metabolomic changes in postmortem muscle, and 2) Utilize advanced computational approaches to improve the prediction of meat quality. The successful candidate will be expected to work independently while thriving in a collaborative environment. Strong initiative, analytical skills, and the ability to communicate effectively within a multidisciplinary team are essential for success. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact in meat science research while contributing to a dynamic and supportive academic community.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in animal science and/or meat science or a closely related area
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

Nice To Haves

• Evidence of leadership in conducting research and publishing research results related to proteomics in muscle and meat.
• Evidence of mastery in proteomic and metabolomic data analysis, with experience in integrating multi-omics datasets (such as metabolomics, lipidomics, and volatilomics).
• Evidence of mastery of protein and proteomic laboratory skills.
• Experience in analytical chemistry methods relevant to meat quality (e.g., mass spectrometry-based workflows).
• Experience connecting chemical signatures (e.g., volatile/flavor profiles) with sensory outcomes and meat quality traits.
• Familiarity with food safety systems (e.g., HACCP) and/or experience in applied product development or manufacturing settings.

Responsibilities

• Generating multi-omics data (proteomic, metabolomic, and related omics such as lipidomics and/or volatilomics) from large sample libraries
• Performing in-depth analysis of proteins, peptides, and small molecules in beef and pork products that vary in consumer quality
• Applying machine learning techniques to predict fresh meat quality based on proteomic, metabolomic, and peptidomic profiles
• Develop a more complete understanding of proteomic and metabolomic changes in postmortem muscle
• Utilize advanced computational approaches to improve the prediction of meat quality
• Work independently while thriving in a collaborative environment

Benefits

• Iowa State Postdocs enjoy 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)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees