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Biologist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Grinnell College Biology Department seeks a manager for its greenhouse, located in the Noyce Science Center. This person will oversee the care of cultivated plants employed in the Biology ...

The Grinnell College Biology Department seeks a manager for its greenhouse, located in the Noyce Science Center. This person will oversee the care of cultivated plants employed in the Biology ...

Harmonize imaging acquisition with analysis by collaborating with biology teams to standardize microscopy/RGB/hyperspectral capture and file formats (e.g., FIJI/ImageJ for zstacks; autoscale ...

Life Sciences Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, organismal biology, anatomy, physiology, and biodiversity. Ability to explain DNA replication, natural selection ...

Life Sciences Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, organismal biology, anatomy, physiology, and biodiversity. Ability to explain DNA replication, natural selection ...

Microbiologist

Ames, IA · On-site

$62K/yr

The incumbent serves as a microbiologist with Veterinary Services (VS) Diagnostics & Biologics (D&B) National Veterinary Services Laboratories. The section furnishes diagnostic bacteriologic and ...

Showing results 41-60

Biologist information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$84K

$129.6K

How much do biologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for biologist in Iowa is $83,974.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Biologist, you need a strong background in biological sciences, analytical skills, and typically at least a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and sometimes specialized certifications (like biosafety or animal handling) is often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting accurate research, ensuring safety, and advancing scientific understanding.

What are some typical challenges biologists face when conducting field research?

Biologists conducting field research often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, remote or difficult-to-access locations, and the need to adapt quickly to unexpected changes in their environment or research subjects. They must also ensure proper documentation and sample preservation, sometimes with limited resources or technology in the field. Collaborating with local teams and adhering to ethical guidelines for wildlife and environmental protection are crucial parts of the process.

What is the difference between Biologist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectBiologistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology or related field; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field; may include certifications in environmental management
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, outdoor habitatsFieldwork, laboratories, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, biotech companiesGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, NGOs

While both Biologists and Environmental Scientists study living organisms, Biologists focus more on understanding biological processes and conducting research in labs or natural habitats. Environmental Scientists apply biological principles to address environmental issues, often working in field settings and policy-related roles. The roles overlap in education and some work environments, but their primary focus and applications differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Biologist jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Biologist jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Biologist jobs in Iowa? For Biologist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Biologist jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Biologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Biologist jobs in IA? For Biologist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Biologist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 61% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 37% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,974 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Research Specialist - Obal Lab

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 17 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

458th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Anesthesia is seeking a full-time Research Specialist (PRK3) to support cardiovascular research projects focused on patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cardiovascular cells and organoids. The successful candidate will function as an independent research professional with expertise in stem cell biology, molecular biology, and cardiovascular research. The position will contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and interpretation of complex experiments, manuscript preparation, grant development, and research program advancement.

The individual will independently design and conduct experiments, maintain accurate and detailed research records, analyze and present findings, and contribute to scientific publications and funding proposals. The successful candidate will collaborate with faculty, trainees, and research staff while helping to advance innovative approaches in cardiovascular and translational research. Experience with advanced computational tools and data analysis methods is highly desirable.

Position Responsibilities:

Experiments

         Function as a specialist/technical expert in cell biology/ iPSC technology. Investigate and perform critical analysis of current literature to develop novel approaches to understand of pharmacological and toxicological disturbance of early cardiovascular development

         Conduct research either independently or in conjunction with other investigators.

         Induced pluripotent stem cell reprogramming and culture.

         Cardiomyocyte, endothelial, and smooth muscle cell differentiation using human iPSCs.

         Perform cardiomyocyte, endothelial cell, smooth muscle phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols.

         Extensive experience with cloning, gene-editing in iPSC.

         Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice.

Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications

         Plan and independently perform 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. Advice on advanced research analysis methods.

         Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes at all times.

         Design, write, and publish findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals. Edit and revise as needed.

Facilities and Equipment Management

         Determine needs of the lab. Gather and determine specifications for highly specialized equipment and procure lab equipment. Determine software needs for projects.

         Maintain inventory and cell culture medium stock to ensure a flawless continuous operation of the lab

         Coordinate and evaluate general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and coordinate lab support when required.

Supervision/Staffing

         Develop training procedures for basic and high-level lab techniques and protocols.

         Become go-to person for grad-students and junior trainings for day-to-day questions.

         Develop evaluation tools for measuring the outcome of training, staff development, and staff performance. Help with hiring new staff and expand the laboratory according to NIH funding and projects.

Other duties as assigned.

Education Requirements
    Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, Pharmacology, or a related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
Experience Requirements
    A minimum of three years of related research experience.
    Demonstrated experience with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture, maintenance, and differentiation. 
    Demonstrated experience applying scientific principles to independently design, conduct, analyze, and interpret research studies. 
    Demonstrated experience maintaining detailed research records and documentation. 
    Demonstrated proficiency with scientific data analysis software and programming tools, including Microsoft Office, R, Python, and/or MATLAB.
    Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and meet project deadlines.
    Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
Desired Qualifications
    PhD or Master's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, Pharmacology, or a related discipline.
    Five or more years of experience in iPSC biology, gene editing, and cardiovascular research. 
    Experience with NIH-funded research projects, grant preparation, and manuscript development. 
    First-author peer-reviewed publications in a relevant scientific discipline. 
    Experience developing and maintaining IRB and/or IACUC protocols. 
    Technical writing experience, including SOPs, protocols, reports, manuscripts, and grant submissions.
    Proficiency with human cell culture techniques, including iPSC reprogramming, maintenance, and differentiation. 
    Experience with molecular biology techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, recombinant DNA methods, cloning, and gene editing. 
    Experience with laboratory animal research and drug administration procedures. 
    Experience supervising, training, or mentoring students, trainees, or research staff. 
    Experience with advanced data analysis, machine learning applications, and scientific programming using R, Python, and/or MATLAB.

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 Specialist
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 5A
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Joseph Mulangaliro
  • Contact Email: joseph-mulangaliro@uiowa.edu

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