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Animal Researcher Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Iowa State University

Research Scientist II

Ames, IA · On-site

Design and coordinate large-animal experiments, including logistical planning and laboratory activities. * Conduct and oversee wet- and dry-lab research and analyze complex scientific data.

Iowa State University

Research Scientist II

Ames, IA · On-site

Design and coordinate large-animal experiments, including logistical planning and laboratory activities. * Conduct and oversee wet- and dry-lab research and analyze complex scientific data.

Kemin

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

As a Research Associate, you will support innovative R&D projects by applying scientific methods ... We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health ...

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All JobsAnimal Researcher JobsAnimal Researcher Jobs in Iowa

Animal Researcher information

See Iowa salary details

$28.2K

$106.2K

$154.5K

How much do animal researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal researcher in Iowa is $106,233.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an animal researcher do?

An Animal Researcher studies animals to understand their behavior, physiology, genetics, or diseases. They often work in laboratories, universities, or in the field, conducting experiments and observations on animals. Their research can contribute to advancements in medicine, environmental conservation, and understanding animal welfare. Animal Researchers may also be involved in developing new treatments for animal or human diseases, ensuring ethical standards are maintained, and publishing their findings in scientific journals.

What are some common challenges an animal researcher faces in their daily work?

Animal Researchers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict ethical standards, adhering to regulatory guidelines, and ensuring animal welfare throughout experiments. Balancing scientific objectives with humane treatment requires careful planning and regular documentation. Additionally, researchers must stay up-to-date with evolving protocols, collaborate closely with veterinarians and fellow scientists, and manage the emotional aspects of working with animals in a research setting.

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

To thrive as an Animal Researcher, you need a strong background in biology, animal science, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree and experience with laboratory research. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), statistical analysis software, and proper animal handling certifications (such as IACUC training) is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing experiments, ensuring animal welfare, and presenting findings. These skills and qualifications are essential for conducting ethical, accurate research that advances scientific understanding and complies with regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Animal Researcher vs Animal Technician?

AspectAnimal ResearcherAnimal Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in biology, animal science, or related field; research experience often preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, universitiesAnimal care facilities, laboratories, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, universitiesVeterinary clinics, research labs, animal shelters
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, career paths in animal researchAnimal care, laboratory support roles

Animal Researchers focus on designing and conducting experiments involving animals, often requiring advanced degrees and research experience. Animal Technicians primarily provide daily care and support for laboratory animals, typically with less formal education. Both roles are essential in animal research settings but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

How do you become an animal researcher?

To become an animal researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, research assistant roles, or volunteering in laboratories or wildlife settings is also important, along with developing skills in data analysis and animal handling.

How much money do animal researchers make?

Animal researchers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can increase with advanced degrees, specialized skills, and working in private industry or research institutions.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Researcher jobs in Iowa?

For Animal Researcher jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Researcher jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Researcher jobs in Iowa are:

Animal Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Researcher job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,233 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

Research Scientist II

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Research Scientist IIJob Group:Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experienceJob Description:

Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist II to lead animal immunogenetics research in dairy cattle. This position offers an opportunity to advance research addressing important questions in cattle health, immunity, and genetics while working collaboratively with scientists at Iowa State University and the USDA Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) National Animal Disease Center (NADC).

The successful candidate will provide scientific leadership across all aspects of research, including experimental design, data collection, logistical planning, data analysis, interpretation of results, and preparation of scientific publications. The position requires an individual who is comfortable working across both large-animal research and laboratory environments, including wet- and dry-lab activities.

What You'll Do

  • Lead dairy cattle immunogenetics research from experimental design through data collection, analysis, interpretation, and publication.

  • Design and coordinate large-animal experiments, including logistical planning and laboratory activities.

  • Conduct and oversee wet- and dry-lab research and analyze complex scientific data.

  • Collaborate with Iowa State University and USDA-ARS NADC scientists, serving as a liaison to coordinate research activities, facilities, and resources.

  • Communicate research findings through presentations, seminars, reports, scientific meetings, and peer-reviewed publications.

  • Develop new research directions and collaborations and contribute to research funding opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with dairy cattle.

  • Bioinformatics data analysis experience using UNIX/ Command line tools

  • Wet lab experience in a molecular genetics lab

  • Experience overseeing diagnostic molecular genetics work

  • Experience teaching students bioinformatics using command line tools

  • Track record of successfully publishing animal genetics/genomics results

  • Previous experience conducting, analyzing, and overseeing animal health genetics experiments

This is a one-year term position.

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:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
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

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:September 20, 2027Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:PS808Original Posting Date:August 12, 2026Posting Close Date:August 19, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19754

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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