Position Description:

The Department of Plant Pathology, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota, is seeking a Research Lab Manager to support the soybean pathology research program under the guidance of Dr. Febina Mathew. This position will be responsible for conducting research on diseases affecting soybeans, including investigations into pathogen biology and the development of disease management strategies, while overseeing daily laboratory operations and supporting the overall objectives of the research program. The primary responsibilities of this position include: (1) Leading or assisting the Principal Investigator in ongoing research projects related to soybean pathology; conducting laboratory, greenhouse, and field experiments; analyzing research data; interpreting results; and preparing comprehensive research reports, manuscripts, grant proposal development, technical reports, and scientific publications; (2) Providing guidance and support to undergraduate and graduate students. Responsibilities include training students in laboratory techniques, experimental procedures, and research protocols while fostering a collaborative research environment. (3) Preparing presentation materials and communicating research findings to scientific and stakeholder audiences. (4) Overseeing daily operations, including management of laboratory supplies, equipment, seeds, pathogen collections, and other resources associated with the soybean pathology program. Responsibilities include isolating and culturing pathogens from diseased plant samples, maintaining pathogen cultures, and ensuring accurate inventory records. (5) Implementing and maintaining laboratory, greenhouse, and field safety protocols in compliance with North Dakota State University policies and applicable APHIS guidelines.

While this position is full-time, continued employment is contingent upon satisfactory work performance in accordance with NDSU policies and the availability of funding. Employees will be entitled to fringe benefits at NDSU, including but not limited to retirement plans, health insurance, vacation time, and sick leave. If you have any questions regarding this position, please feel free to contact Dr. Febina Mathew at [email protected].

Salary: $50,0000-$55,000 - DOE

Minimum Qualifications:

M.S. in plant pathology, or a closely related field at the time of hire;

Experience with soybean diseases, basic and applied plant pathology laboratory techniques;

molecular biology techniques;

A driving license;

Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team;

Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and procedures;

Excellent communication (written and oral),

leadership, and organization skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

A Ph.D. in Plant Pathology or a related field, along with relevant experience,

Mentoring students.

Screening Date: Applications are due on September 16, 2026. (Open until Filled).

Required Applicant Documents: Resume, Cover letter, Unofficial Transcript

Special Instructions to Applicants: The cover letter should include the names, emails, addresses, and phone numbers of two references from recent positions held.



Our commitment to caring for our employees isn’t just words—it’s proven. In NDSU’s most recent Gallup Engagement Survey, our strengths centered on care and development. “My supervisor, or someone at work, cares about me as a person” and “I have the opportunities to learn and grow”, were noted as top drivers. This reflects the culture you’ll experience here.


NDSU OFFERS OUTSTANDING BENEFITS!
Join a workplace that invests in your well-being, your future, and your success.

Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits:

Health & Wellness
100% employer-paid health insurance premiums for single and family coverage
Choice of PPO/Basic or High Deductible Health Plan with HSA
Coverage begins the first of the month after your hire date
Wellness incentives for healthy lifestyle participation
Exceptional Retirement Plan
Employer retirement contributions ranging from 7.5% up to an impressive 12.26%, depending on position
(One of the strongest retirement packages in the region!) - Your future is a priority, and it shows.
Time Away & Support
Generous annual leave, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays
Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
Supportive work-life balance
Education Benefits That Grow With You
Tuition waivers for employees (up to three classes per calendar year)
50% tuition waiver for spouse/partner and dependents
Additional Optional Benefits
Supplemental Life, Dental, Vision, Long-Term Care
Flexible Spending Accounts (Health & Dependent Care)
Supplemental Retirement Plans