Position Title: Research Scientist I Job Group: Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree Preferred Qualifications: Experience in extrusion and polymer processing. Experience in reading and executing industry and consumer standards for material evaluation (ASTM, ISO, FDA, APR). Experience with processing of recycled materials. Experience writing research and impact reports. Experience using analytical instruments for material evaluation. Job Description: The Iowa State University Polymer and Food Protection Consortium is seeking a Research Scientist I to join a team conducting specialized research in packaging, recycling, sustainability, contamination in packaging, and microplastics. This position will help with method and sample preparation development for PFAS analysis in packaging materials. The Iowa State Polymer and Food Protection Consortium (https://pfpc.cals.iastate.edu) serves industry through fundamental and applied research and maintains an active program of knowledge and technology transfer to industry partners. The Consortium is a leader in fundamental and industry-driven research, education, and training through the development of innovative materials, processes, and systems. Duties may include: * Design and conduct small to moderately complex experiments using extrusion blow molding, injection molding, and casting aligned with PFPC research goals. * Evaluate polymer properties to assess research progress and packaging performance. * Develop and refine research methodologies; identify issues and implement solutions to improve processing outcomes. * Author Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for PFPC research and processing equipment. * Coordinate data collection and validation efforts for processing experiments involving resins, bio-fillers, and recycling methods. * Conduct statistical analysis and interpret data to inform and optimize packaging research approaches. * Support research dissemination through contributions to publications and reports. This is a term position with possibility of renewal. Level Guidelines * Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision * Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode * Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope * Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained * Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate * May lead projects of limited scope and complexity * May provide guidance to students Appointment Type: Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term) Proposed End Date or Length of Term: June 8, 2026 Number of Months Employed Per Year: 12 Month Work Period Time Type: Full time Pay Grade: PS807 Application Instructions: To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: 1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae 2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485. Why Choose ISU? Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as: • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans • Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa) • Life insurance and long-term disability • Flexible Spending Accounts • Various voluntary benefits and discounts • Employee Assistance Program • Wellbeing program • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager. Original Posting Date: May 8, 2025 Posting Close Date: May 15, 2025 Job Requisition Number: R16995