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Biotech Research Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Bio Process Research Scientist As a Bio Process Research Scientist , you will be part of the ... Ph.D. in Microbiology, Virology, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology ...

Bakery Scientist

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$110 - $150/hr

... Food Biotechnology or related scientific discipline. * 5+ years of bakery formulation, ingredient development, or bakery R&D experience with bakery ingredients or CPG companies. * Strong ...

The R&D Bakery Scientist is responsible for developing, optimizing, and validating bakery ... We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity ...

... Food Biotechnology or related scientific discipline. * 5+ years of bakery formulation, ingredient development, or bakery R&D experience with bakery ingredients or CPG companies. * Strong ...

The R&D Bakery Scientist is responsible for developing, optimizing, and validating bakery ... We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity ...

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $22/hr

... Biotechnology, Entomology, Genetics, Crop Science, or a related life sciences field. * Experience working in a laboratory, greenhouse, and/or agricultural field research environment. * Experience ...

Laboratory Technician

Johnston, IA ยท On-site

$17.80 - $22.80/hr

... Biotechnology, Entomology, Genetics, Crop Science, or a related life sciences field. Experience working in a laboratory, greenhouse, and/or agricultural field research environment. Experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Biotech Research information

See Iowa salary details

$25.9K

$70.2K

$126K

How much do biotech research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for biotech research in Iowa is $70,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,950.00 and $90,991.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is biotech research?

Biotech research involves the use of biological systems, organisms, or derivatives to develop new products or processes for a variety of fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental management. Researchers in biotechnology explore genetic engineering, drug development, and diagnostic technologies to solve complex biological problems. This work often requires interdisciplinary knowledge in biology, chemistry, engineering, and computer science. The outcomes of biotech research can lead to innovations such as new medical therapies, sustainable crops, and cleaner industrial processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in biotech research?

To thrive in Biotech Research, you need a strong background in biological sciences, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a degree in biotechnology, biology, or a related field. Proficiency with molecular biology tools, bioinformatics software, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is highly valued. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that enable success in research environments. These competencies ensure accurate experimentation, innovative problem-solving, and effective collaboration, which are crucial for advancing scientific discoveries and applications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in biotech research, and how can they be addressed?

Biotech research professionals often encounter challenges such as managing complex experiments, meeting strict regulatory requirements, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams can also present communication hurdles, especially when coordinating between scientists, engineers, and regulatory experts. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong project management skills, stay updated on industry regulations, and foster open communication within the team. Many organizations also provide ongoing training and mentorship to help researchers continually build their technical expertise and collaborative abilities.

What is the difference between Biotech Research vs Biotech Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiotech ResearchBiotech Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Biotechnology, or related fields; often requires research experienceAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology, Biology, or related fields; technical training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companies; focus on experimental design and data analysisLaboratories within biotech or pharmaceutical companies; focus on sample preparation, testing, and data recording
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research and development, academia, biotech firmsCommon in manufacturing, quality control, and clinical testing within biotech and pharma industries

Biotech Research involves designing and conducting experiments to develop new products or understand biological processes, requiring advanced degrees and research skills. In contrast, Biotech Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample analysis, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in the biotech industry but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

Is biotech research a stable career path?

Biotech research is generally considered a stable career due to ongoing advancements in healthcare and biotechnology industries. Job stability can depend on factors such as industry funding, technological developments, and individual skills like laboratory techniques and data analysis. Professionals with advanced degrees and specialized expertise tend to have better job security in this field.

What does a biotech research do?

A biotech researcher conducts experiments and analyzes data to develop new products or improve existing ones in fields like medicine, agriculture, or environmental science. They often work in laboratories using techniques such as DNA sequencing, cell culture, and molecular analysis, requiring strong scientific knowledge and attention to detail.

What jobs can I get after studying biotechnology?

Graduates with a background in biotechnology can pursue roles such as research scientist, quality control analyst, bioprocess technician, laboratory manager, or regulatory affairs specialist. These positions often require knowledge of laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with biotech tools and regulations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Biotech Research jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Biotech Research jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Biotech Research jobs in Iowa?

For Biotech Research jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Biotech Research job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,221 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Senior Bioprocess Engineer, Yeast Manufacturing

Iff

Cedar Rapids, IA โ€ข Hybrid

$89K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Summary

Are you ready to apply your expertise in industrial biotechnology and yeast manufacturing to drive operational excellence and innovation on a global scale?
IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.
Health & Biosciences: Channeling our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologies that power innovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer and industrial markets.
The role is based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa (hybrid role). Be part of a collaborative, solution-oriented, innovative, and experienced team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration.

Where You'll Make a Difference

  • Provide troubleshooting, problem-solving, and proactive technical support for H&B manufacturing processes.
  • Benchmark and optimize internal and external manufacturing operations.
  • Assess internal yeast manufacturing performance and compliance, including quality and product cost analysis.
  • Support new product launches and technology transfers while collaborating with global R&D teams with an internal yeast manufacturing focus.
  • Monitor and communicate process performance, operational efficiency, and product cost metrics.
  • Develop technoeconomic evaluations for manufacturing improvements, CAPEX projects, commercialization efforts, and debottlenecking initiatives supporting yeast manufacturing strategy.
  • Contribute to global Manufacturing Technology initiatives and strategies.
  • Evaluate manufacturing assets and capabilities to support current and future business needs.
  • Support process commercialization and front-end loading activities for capital expansion projects.

What Makes You the Right Fit

  • BS/MS in Chemical Engineering or related field is strongly preferred.
  • Minimum five years of relevant experience, preferably in industrial/biochemical yeast processing including project management experience.
  • Strong knowledge of industrial biotech process technology including fermentation, downstream processing, liquid and solid formulation, with an emphasis on yeast manufacturing.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing optimization and process improvement initiatives.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate across locations, functions, and divisions.
  • Proven decision-making, prioritization, and strategic thinking skills.
  • Financial and business acumen, including project justification and product cost analysis.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

How Would You Stand Out?

  • Leading strategic initiatives in R&D and manufacturing technology for yeast manufacturing processes.
  • Experience supporting contract manufacturers or multi-site operations.
  • Knowledge of front-end loading and capital project execution processes.

Why Choose Us?

  • Competitive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), vacation, holidays, 16 weeks paid parental leave, and annual incentive plan.
  • Diversity & Inclusion: Recognized for disability inclusion and fostering an inclusive workplace.
  • Innovation: Gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies and trailblazing advancements in biotechnology. Meaningful work helping advance solutions for renewable fuels, food ingredients, and animal nutrition.
  • Global Collaboration: Work across diverse, cross-functional teams around the world.
  • Sustainability: Contribute to solutions that support a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world.
  • Professional Perks: Career development, commuter benefits, and tuition reimbursement incentives.

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more