Postdoctoral Fellow

Colorado State University

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Fort Collins, CO Until 10/3/2026 0+ years exp First posted August 4, 2026 Last posted August 4, 2026
Job description

Job Description

Position Summary

This position is affiliated with AgNext at Colorado State University. AgNext is a collaborative research program that develops science-based solutions to make animal agriculture more sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible. The successful candidate will lead applied research on calf health, beef-on-dairy production systems, and early-life management in beef on dairy and dairy calves. This postdoctoral fellow will design and execute on-farm trials, help with grant writing, apply advanced statistical analysis, and translate findings into practical evidence-based recommendations for producers.


Full Consideration Date

To be fully considered for this position, the candidate should apply by Friday, August 14th. Open until filled.


Essential Job Duties

  • Design and implement strategies for early life management in calves.  ​
  • Develop and apply data analytics, modeling, and visualization tools to interpret complex livestock system data.  
  • Collaborate on projects related to animal health, growth performance, production, and early life strategies.  
  • Contribute to grant writing and interdisciplinary research proposals. 
  • Support extension and outreach efforts, translating research into practical tools for producers and stakeholders.  
  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific and industry conferences.

Conditions of Employment

  • Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for all new hires).
  • Valid driver's license by employment start date. 
  • Authorized to work in the United States by employment start date. 
  • Travel required between Fort Collins and commercial dairies and research sites, occasionally irregular hours and weekend work during active trials.  

Supervision

  • The successful candidate will mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students. 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Completed PhD or equivalent degree from an accredited institution by start date of employment.
  • Demonstrated success in publishing.
  • Experience with early life management and execution of in-field research projects.
  • Experience with sustainability in dairy systems. 
  • Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) ability to communicate directly with farm owners and crews.
  • Experience in grant writing.
  • Experience with project and team management.

Salary Range

$60,000-$70,000

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.

Cover Letter, Resume/CV

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.

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.

About this role

Summary

Lead research on calf health, dairy systems, data analysis, and grant writing.

Job title

Postdoctoral Fellow

Experience level

doctorate

Minimum experience

0+ years exp

Industry

agriculture

Location requirements

Fort Collins, CO, with travel; no remote work allowed

Salary

$60k–$70k

Management role

Yes

Skills & keywords

Required skills

researchstatisticsgrant writingcommunicationcollaboration

Preferred skills

bilingualteam managementproject management

Specializations

animal healthdairy systemsearly life managementstatisticssustainability
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Fort Collins, CO, USA

On-site City