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Biotech Research Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Science & Clinical connects talented scientific professionals with innovative organizations advancing research and biotechnology. This position offers the opportunity to work with advanced ...

... biotechnology? At Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT), one of Danaher's 15+ operating companies, our ... Guided by our vision to help researchers rapidly move from the lab to life-changing advances, we ...

Environmental Engineer

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$125 - $155/hr

... biotech, and next-generation expertise in gene editing and molecular breeding. Our portfolio ... This role supports manufacturing and production facilities, research locations, laboratories, and ...

We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity ... Present research findings, application results, and technical recommendations to internal teams ...

We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity ... Present research findings, application results, and technical recommendations to internal teams ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Associate Scientist - Food Chemistry

Kemin

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview

Kemin Industries Food Technologies business unit is seeking an Associate Scientist to join our team of experienced researchers and help strengthen the chemistry foundation behind our ingredientinnovation initiatives.

We are seeking a scientist with a background in Food Chemistry, or Chemistry with relevant industry experience, focused on general chemistry as it applies to food systems. This role will focus on developing new ingredients, establishing SOPs, creating analytical methods and food models, and applying instrumental and organic chemistry to identify functional molecules, with an emphasis on natural sources.

This position requires someone who can balance scientific rigor with creativity, connecting deep molecular understanding to practical, commercially viable solutions. Working alongside microbiology and application scientists, this individual will anchor the team with chemistry expertise and help drive cleanlabel, affordable ingredient innovation. The ideal candidate is motivated by realworld impact and excited to translate chemistry into meaningful advancements for the food industry.

Join the Kemin Team and Transform Lives!

We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity and committed to transforming the quality of life for people, pets, and the planet.

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We create solutions that strengthen health and wellbeing, provide nutrition and immune support for pets and production animals, safeguard the planet's natural resources, and protect the global food supply chain for generations to come.

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We supply over 500 specialty ingredients for various industries, including human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textiles, biofuels, and animal vaccines.

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We employ 3,500 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.

As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and professional well-being:

  • Competitive Financial Package: Enjoy a rewarding salary, uncapped bonus opportunities, a 401k match program, and generous paid vacation and holidays.
  • Health and Wellness Support: Stay fit and healthy with our fitness reimbursement for the whole family, access to an on-site fitness center, a restaurant offering seasonal fresh food options, and free fresh fruit in break areas.
  • Career Development and Advancement: Unlock your potential with opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
  • Continued Learning Opportunities: Grow your skills with our in-house learning platforms, offering thousands of training resources both live and online, and take advantage of tuition reimbursement for external post-secondary pursuits.
  • Service Opportunities: Make a positive impact with paid time off for service, partnerships with The World Food Programme and Habitat for Humanity, and local community initiatives.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute chemical assays and food model testing for ingredient evaluation.
  • Independently conduct innovative scientific experiments and translate research into practical applications.
  • Perform pilotplant operations to support process scaleup and optimization
  • Perform literature reviews and provide written summaries that are incorporated into strategy.
  • Identify and deliver commercial viable solutions to customers
  • communicate effectively and display crossfunctional collaboration to drive successful product commercialization
  • Reliable and consistently deliver highquality data and reports on time
  • Independently develop and review SOP's, research protocols and research methods; design safety procedures
  • Independently perform advanced data analysis and review other's data to provide input and insight
  • Independently, collect, interpret and document research data.
  • Generate scientific publications for internal and external publication, with guidance and review.
  • Prepare and present data analytics and research in multiple formats both internally and externally
  • Review internal publication across Kemin.
  • Identify and participate in external research collaborations
  • Contribute to strategic planning process and customer meetings.
  • Provides instruction and training to interns and junior staff.
Qualifications
  • Education
    • Bachelor's Food Science, Chemistry or Biochemistry with 7+ years of relevant industrial experience
    • Master's in Food Science, Chemistry or Biochemistry with 3+ years of relevant industrial experience
  • Must be able to work independently or on a team and have the ability to work in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment.
  • Solid knowledge foundation in food chemistry (especially on polyphenols, phytochemicals, colorants, etc.), and hands on lab experience in food and chemical analysis.
  • Strong understanding of food ingredient functionalities, interactions, and core foodprocessing principles
  • Excellent Scientific skills in experiment design and data collection, able to maintain instruments.
  • Detail oriented, organized, prioritization skills and motivated by accomplishment.
  • Ability to understand and perform advanced statistical analysis.
  • Analytical lab skills with a strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
  • Fluent in English. Excellent written and oral communication skills with ability to present ideas effectively.
  • Advanced computer knowledge (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, etc.).

We are an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed/religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status (where applicable), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy/childbirth/breastfeeding or related conditions, age (40+), disability (including the use of a service animal), genetic information, marital status, familial or caregiver status, military or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, reproductive health decisionmaking, and any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also prohibit retaliation for raising concerns or participating in an EEO process. Applicants who need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview can emailย TalentAcquisition.US@Kemin.com.

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required.ย  Additional pre-employmentย requirementsย may be necessaryย based onย position.

Kemin is a drug-free and tobacco-free campus.ย 

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME