ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Biotech Scientist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kellton

Imaging Data Scientist

Johnston, IA · On-site

$75/hr

Partner with DH stakeholders (biotech & breeding, Genome Technology Discovery, Data Science) to ... align deliverables with deployment milestones. * Maintain IP & data stewardship practices ...

Kemin

Bakery Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

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 ...

Kemin

Bakery Scientist

Des Moines, IA

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 ...

Kemin

Bakery Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

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 ...

Kelly Services

Embryology Scientist

Coralville, IA

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

Kemin

Associate Scientist - Food Science

Des Moines, IA · On-site

We are seeking a scientist with a food science and technology background and hands-on experience of ... We are a privately held, family-owned-and-operated global biotechnology company driven by curiosity ...

Elanco

Bio Process Scientist

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

D. in Microbiology, Virology, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology, or another relevant scientific discipline. * Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and understanding biotechnology applications. Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects ... agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development.

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and understanding biotechnology applications. Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects ... agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBiotech Scientist JobsBiotech Scientist Jobs in Iowa

Biotech Scientist information

See Iowa salary details

$39.9K

$88.7K

$143.7K

How much do biotech scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for biotech scientist in Iowa is $88,685.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,400.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biotech scientist?

To thrive as a Biotech Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and data analysis, usually supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a life science field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques like PCR, cell culture, and the use of bioinformatics tools and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring scientific rigor, driving innovation, and delivering reliable results in a collaborative research environment.

What opportunities exist for career growth as a biotech scientist within a research organization?

As a Biotech Scientist, career advancement typically involves progressing from bench-level research roles to positions such as Senior Scientist, Principal Investigator, or Project Lead. Many organizations offer professional development through mentorship, cross-disciplinary projects, and leadership training. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and publication of research results can also enhance your visibility and open doors to new responsibilities. Demonstrating initiative and staying updated on emerging technologies are key factors in moving up within the field.

What is the difference between Biotech Scientist vs Microbiologist?

AspectBiotech ScientistMicrobiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biotechnology, Biology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Microbiology, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, biotech companies, research institutionsLaboratories, healthcare facilities, research institutions
Industry UsageBiotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agricultureHealthcare, environmental, food safety
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Biotech Scientists and Microbiologists both work in laboratory settings and require similar educational backgrounds. However, Biotech Scientists focus on developing biotechnological applications and products, while Microbiologists study microorganisms and their impacts. Both roles are vital in research and industry, often overlapping but with distinct specializations.

Do biotech scientists make good money?

Biotech scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions often start around $50,000 to $70,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning over $100,000, especially in research, development, or managerial roles. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in biotech hubs can increase earning potential.

Is biotech a high paying career?

Biotech scientists often earn competitive salaries, especially with advanced degrees and specialized skills such as molecular biology or bioinformatics. Salaries vary by experience, location, and employer, but the field generally offers higher-than-average pay compared to many other scientific roles.

What does a biotech scientist do?

A biotech scientist conducts research to develop and improve biological products, such as medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics. They analyze data, perform experiments, and use laboratory tools and techniques to understand biological processes, often working in labs or research facilities. Strong knowledge of biology, chemistry, and laboratory skills are essential for this role.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Biotech Scientist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Biotech Scientist jobs in Iowa are:

Biotech Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biotech Scientist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,685 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Imaging Data Scientist

Kellton

Johnston, IA • On-site

$75/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Imaging Data Scientist
Location: Johnston, IA 50131 Locals only within 50-mile required onsite T/W/TH each week
Duration: 12 months + extensions
Max Pay Rate: $75/hr W2 (No Benefits) - DOE

No C2C at this time

Project Scope and Brief Description

Work at the intersection of plant cell biology and applied AI to build, productionize, and maintain computer vision pipelines that accelerate Doubled Haploid (DH) breeding in Biotechnology. The contractor will contribute to endtoend imaging and analytics from microscopy microspore detection to macroscopic structure assessment and plantlet characterization supporting decisions that reduce cycle time and cost in DH programs. Solutions will be developed primarily in Python, integrated with our repositories and workflow tooling, and aligned with Biotech strategy initiatives

Responsibilities:

  • Design & deliver deep learning-based CV models for microscopy and macroscopic assays (detection, segmentation, classification) with measurable accuracy, robustness, and throughput.
  • Build productionready pipelines in Python (data ingest, preprocessing, augmentation, inference, batch processing), integrated with GitLab repos and experiment tracking; ensure reproducibility and documentation.
  • Implement hyperspectral analysis workflows (band selection, normalization, feature extraction, model training).
  • 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 practices).
  • Quantify model performance (precision/recall, F1, ROC/AUC, calibration) and write clear reports/posters for DH sessions; support factchecking in presentations.
  • Operationalize at scale: batch processing of tens of thousands of structures/images; optimize inference (e.g., torch.compile, mixed precision) and monitor resource usage.
  • Partner with DH stakeholders (biotech & breeding, Genome Technology Discovery, Data Science) to align deliverables with deployment milestones.
  • Maintain IP & data stewardship practices consistent with internal strategy; avoid disclosure of confidential protocols while enabling model reuse

Must Have:

  • 4 6 years handson in computer vision with Python (PyTorch/TensorFlow), including detection/segmentation/classification for scientific or industrial imaging.
  • Proven ability to productionize models: Git/GitLab, code reviews, CICD basics, experiment tracking (MLFlow or equivalent), reproducible data/experiments, and clear documentation.
  • Experience with microscopy image processing, multipage TIFFs, zstacks, autoscale/normalization, and image quality challenges.
  • Familiarity with hyperspectral or multispectral imaging pipelines (preprocessing, dimensionality reduction, modeling) applied to plant or biological materials.
  • Track record of measurable model performance reporting and communicating results via posters/presentations for technical audiences.

NicetoHave

  • Vision Transformers (ViT) and modern YOLO workflows for microscopy/macroscopic tasks; comfort with infer tooling.
  • Experience optimizing inference (e.g., torch.compile, mixed precision) and scaling batch workflows.
  • Domain familiarity with Biotech breeding workflows.
  • Collaboration with discovery and strategy teams; ability to work across biology, engineering, and data science groups.

Soft Skills

  • Strong stakeholder communication and the ability to translate biology & process constraints into CV requirements; comfortable triaging and prioritizing rapidly in active programs.
  • Ownership mindset around documentation, reproducibility, and IPaware sharing.
  • Curious and learning mindset
  • Technical leadership experience

Apply