Job Description

Position Summary

The Microbial Ecosystems Lab is seeking a motivated research technician to join our team in Fort Collins, CO. This is a temporary hourly position, expected to last full time from June 1 through August 2026, with the potential for extension up to 9 months from the start date. The role is centered on the molecular processing of soil samples, with additional responsibilities supporting field-based research activities.

This position will contribute directly to ongoing projects investigating how microbial communities regulate carbon and nutrient cycling across agricultural and environmental systems. The technician will be responsible for executing and maintaining high-quality laboratory workflows, including nucleic acid extraction, quantification, PCR-based assays, and data management, while ensuring adherence to established protocols and laboratory safety standards.

In addition to laboratory responsibilities, the technician will support field sampling efforts, including soil and crop collection, environmental data recording, and coordination of sample logistics. Fieldwork may involve travel for up to one week at a time and working in variable outdoor conditions.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong technical competency in molecular biology methods, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. This position is well-suited for candidates seeking to apply and further develop laboratory and data skills in a fast-paced, research-driven environment.

Department

Soil and Crop Sciences

Full Consideration Date

For full consideration, applications must be received by April 31st, 2026

Brief Work Unit Description

The Microbial Ecosystems Lab in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences at Colorado State University investigates how microbiomes regulate carbon and nutrient cycling across diverse ecosystems. Our research spans agricultural systems, wetlands, and host-associated environments, with a focus on linking microbial metabolism to ecosystem-scale outcomes.

This position is based in Fort Collins, Colorado (Colorado State University campus), with fieldwork conducted at regional and multi-state research sites. The technician will be part of a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment that includes faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students, contributing to projects that address pressing challenges in agriculture and environmental sustainability.

This role provides the opportunity to contribute directly to ongoing research efforts, generate high-quality data, and engage with both laboratory and field-based components of microbiome science.

To learn more about our team: microbialecosystemslab.com

Essential Job Duties

Laboratory Research:

• Execute molecular laboratory workflows, including DNA/RNA extraction, quantification, and PCR-based assays
• Maintain detailed and well-organized laboratory records and datasets
• Follow and uphold laboratory safety protocols and standard operating procedures

Field Research:

• Participate in multi-day sampling campaigns, including collection of soil and crop samples across research sites in Colorado and outside the state
• Assist with preparation, organization, collection and transport of field sampling equipment

Data and Lab Management:

• Perform data entry, organization, and initial data processing
• Maintain lab organization, including inventory, dishwashing, sample tracking, and general upkeep

Supervision

This position does not have supervision responsibilities

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, environmental science, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience
• Demonstrated 1–2 years of experience working in a laboratory setting
• Proficiency with molecular biology techniques including pipette use, DNA extraction, quantification, and PCR
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a small team and communicate effectively
• Ability to work in outdoor environmental conditions, including exposure to variable weather, and meet the physical demands of fieldwork (e.g., lifting up to 40 lbs, kneeling, and handling equipment)
• Experience with data collection, entry, and processing, including working in Excel or similar platforms
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites for up to one week at a time

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with RNA extraction and handling, or preparation of DNA or RNA sequencing libraries
• Experience with data processing or statistical analyses in R or Python
• Experience with microbiome data analysis (e.g., amplicon or metagenomic data), including familiarity with relevant bioinformatics workflows
• Experience with cultivation of microorganisms
• Experience with field campaigns and environmental sample collection (e.g., soils, crops, or related systems)

Salary Range

$22.00 to $29.00 an hour, depending on experience

Required Application Documents

Applications must be submitted through the CSU Jobs website (Workday system); emailed materials will not be considered. For any questions or information about the position, please contact Dr. Sophie Jurgensen (position supervisor) at sophie.jurgensen@colostate.edu.

A completed application will include:

• A 1-page cover letter describing how you meet the required and any preferred qualifications for this position
• A 1–2 page resume/CV that includes your relevant education, training, and work experience
• The names and contact information (email and phone) for two references (these may be included at the end of your resume/CV). We will notify applicants before contacting any references

Salary Range

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

• Review our detailed benefits information here.

• Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

• For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

• Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.