Research Associate

The Research Associate will independently and collaboratively conduct research in biomass conversion, biomanufacturing, lignin valorization, and catalytic processes. The role supports the Principal Investigator Dr. Jikai Zhao in leading laboratory...

  • 520840
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Carl Melinda Helwig Dpt BioAgE
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing on: Dec 24 2025
  • On-site
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About This Role

The Research Associate will independently and collaboratively conduct research in biomass conversion, biomanufacturing, lignin valorization, and catalytic processes. The role supports the Principal Investigator Dr. Jikai Zhao in leading laboratory operations, developing new technologies, mentoring graduate students, and contributing to competitive research proposals.

About Us

The Carl R. Ice College of Engineering is committed to driving innovation and preparing the next generation of technological leaders. As a premier institution, our mission is to educate and empower our students to address the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Requires a master's degree and two years of relevant experience
  • Valid Driver's license

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, Bioenergy, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline
  • Demonstrated research experience in biomass conversion, catalysis, or lignin valorization
  • Proven record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant areas
  • Experience with biomanufacturing, bioreactor operation, and analytical instrumentation (GC, HPLC, NMR, FTIR)
  • Experience mentoring graduate students or managing laboratory operations
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience contributing to grant proposals or technical reports

Additional Role Information:

  • Must comply with K-State’s environmental health and safety policies

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

  • CV
  • Three references

Application Window

Applications close on: December 24, 2025

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$49,825.00-$65,423.00

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization: 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.