Postdoctoral Research Associate

Washington State University • Pullman, WA

11d • Onsite

About The Position

The School of Food Science at Washington State University is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate specializing in food safety and microbiology with data science applications. The role conducts applied research on real-world food safety challenges in collaboration with industry partners. The associate will join a team investigating microbial contamination, intervention strategies, and risk reduction across diverse food systems, applying data analysis and computational tools to microbiological data and collaborating with food companies and regulatory agencies to translate findings into practical solutions.

This is a temporary, full-time, 12-month appointment expected to run from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027. Renewal depends on the need for an extension and/or additional funding. The position is based in Pullman, Washington, and is overtime eligible. Annual salary is $62,232–$65,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Work visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Food Microbiology, Food Science, Food Engineering, or a related discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with or strong interest in data analysis, programming, or predictive modeling.
• Microbiological laboratory skills, with experience in microbiome research and/or sequencing-based approaches.
• Evidence of peer-reviewed publications and strong scientific writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead interdisciplinary food safety studies on pathogenic bacteria using microbiological and molecular approaches, with opportunities to incorporate engineering-based solutions and data-driven tools.
• Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and contribute to grant proposals.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in laboratory research, experimental design, and data analysis.
• Collaborate with industry partners and regulatory agencies to translate research findings into practical solutions.

Benefits

• Paid sick and vacation leave
• Paid holidays
• Medical insurance for employees and dependents
• Dental insurance for employees and dependents
• Life insurance for employees and dependents
• Disability insurance for employees and dependents
• Retirement benefits
• Deferred compensation
• Optional supplemental retirement accounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree