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Animal Lab Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Animal Lab Assistant information

What is an animal lab assistant?

Animal Lab Assistants are professionals who support scientific research by caring for laboratory animals and maintaining their living environments. They are responsible for feeding, cleaning, monitoring animal health, and assisting researchers with experiments. Their work ensures that animals are treated ethically and that experiments are conducted in a safe, controlled environment. Animal Lab Assistants may also help with maintaining records and administering medications as directed by veterinarians or researchers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Lab Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of animal care, handling procedures, and basic laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant certification or associate degree in animal science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data recording systems, and compliance regulations such as IACUC protocols is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the well-being of laboratory animals, the accuracy of research data, and adherence to ethical and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by animal lab assistants, and how can they be managed?

Animal Lab Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to protocols, handling animals with care under potentially stressful conditions, and managing time efficiently between various tasks like feeding, cleaning, and record-keeping. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, stay up to date on animal care guidelines, and communicate effectively with research staff and veterinarians. Regular training and working closely within the team can also help ensure both animal welfare and research integrity are maintained.

What is the difference between Animal Lab Assistant vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Lab AssistantVeterinary Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate's degree in veterinary technology; certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, animal care facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Animal Lab Assistants primarily support research labs and animal care in laboratory settings, often with minimal formal credentials. Veterinary Technicians work in veterinary clinics or hospitals, requiring specialized education and certification. While both roles involve animal care, Veterinary Technicians typically have more advanced training and perform clinical procedures, whereas Animal Lab Assistants focus on supporting research activities.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Animal Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Animal Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Lab Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate - Anesthesia, Obal's Lab

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

464th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Anesthesia is seeking a full-time Research Associate to participate in a cardiovascular research project. The research primarily utilizes patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to model cardiac disorders. The successful candidate must have experience in human cell culture techniques, genomic and protein expression molecular techniques with an excellent record keeping ability and organization skills. Prior experience with induced pluripotent stem cell research is highly desired, but not a requirement. A minimal part of the project will include animal experiments and prior experience working with mice is desired. The candidate must exhibit a great deal of independence and be able to independently design experiments, carry them out and assist with analyzing and presenting data. 
Position Responsibilities:
    Induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming and culture.
    Cardiomyocyte and endothelial differentiation experiments using human iPSCs. 
    Perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols.
    Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice.
    Plan and perform existing experiments in support of ongoing research projects based on extensive knowledge of scientific theory. Interpret and perform analyses of results and their possible implications.
    Discuss issues and considerations for using different types of research approaches.
    Analyze and interpret literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research, interpret new findings and analyze their validity.
    Demonstrate in depth knowledge of and offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols. Advise on advanced research analysis methods.
    Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
    Design, write, and publish findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals. Edit and revise as needed.
    Coordinate and evaluate general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and coordinate lab support when required.
    Other duties as assigned.

Position and Application Details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission:
   Resume/CV
   Cover Letter

For a full job description, please send an e-mail to the contact listed below.

About The Department of Anesthesia:
The Department of Anesthesia provides exceptional patient experiences and a positive work environment through excellence, compassionate care, continuous improvement, innovative research, and collaborative learning.

Education Requirements:
    Bachelor's degree in related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience Requirements:
    One year of related experience is required.
    Extensive understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
    Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work. 
    Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes. Edit and revise as needed.
    General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
    Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance. 
    Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
Desired Qualifications:
    A Bachelor of Science in molecular biology or related discipline or equivalent experience
    Two year's experience
    Technical writing experience in SOP's, protocols, and reports
    Proficiency with human cell culture techniques, experience with iPSC is highly valued
    Experience with laboratory animal experiments, in particular, s.c. injection of drugs
    Experience with tissue homogenization and single cell preparation from various tissues, primarily cardiomyocytes
    Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and recombinant DNA techniques
    Routinely perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell differentiation experiments using human iPSCs
    Possess initiative, ability to multi-task and a desire to acquire new technical skills
    Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
    Ability to communicate effectively with team members and collaborators
    Experimental design, execution of plan and presentation of data to team
    Utilization of good documentation practices

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 for calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization. 

Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For additional questions, please contact Joseph Mulangaliro at joseph-mulangaliro@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Research Associate
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 4A
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Joseph Mulangaliro
  • Contact Email: joseph-mulangaliro@uiowa.edu

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