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Director Research Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kemin

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA

As a Research Associate, you will support innovative R&D projects by applying scientific methods and conducting laboratory-based research activities. Working under direct supervision, you will ...

Kemin

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

As a Research Associate, you will support innovative R&D projects by applying scientific methods and conducting laboratory-based research activities. Working under direct supervision, you will ...

Kemin

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

As a Research Associate, you will support innovative R&D projects by applying scientific methods and conducting laboratory-based research activities. Working under direct supervision, you will ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist I

Ames, IA · On-site

... on the development, characterization, and application of materials that address real-world ... Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal ...

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Director Research Development information

See Iowa salary details

$61.5K

$152.8K

$201.9K

How much do director research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for director research development in Iowa is $152,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,800.00 and $182,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director research development do?

A Director of Research Development leads and manages the planning, coordination, and execution of research strategies within an organization. They are responsible for identifying funding opportunities, fostering collaborations, and overseeing proposal development to secure grants and support research initiatives. Additionally, they work with faculty or research teams to ensure compliance with regulations and alignment with institutional goals, while supporting innovation and the growth of research programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director research development?

To thrive as a Director of Research Development, you need advanced expertise in research methodologies, project management, and grant writing, usually backed by a graduate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems is essential, along with certifications like CRA (Certified Research Administrator) being advantageous. Strategic thinking, leadership, and excellent communication skills are critical for building collaborations and guiding multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for securing funding, ensuring research integrity, and driving innovative projects to successful completion.

How does a director research development typically collaborate with other departments to drive innovation within an organization?

A Director of Research Development often works closely with cross-functional teams such as product management, engineering, marketing, and executive leadership to align research initiatives with organizational goals. This role involves facilitating communication between departments, ensuring that research projects support strategic objectives, and integrating insights from various stakeholders. Effective collaboration helps drive innovation, as the Director ensures that research outcomes are actionable and directly contribute to product or service enhancements. Regular meetings, joint project planning sessions, and clear reporting structures are common practices to maintain alignment and foster a culture of innovation.

What is the difference between Director Research Development vs Research Scientist?

AspectDirector Research DevelopmentResearch Scientist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD preferred), leadership experienceTypically a PhD or Master's degree in a relevant field
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, team management, cross-department collaborationLaboratory or field research, data analysis, experimentation
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, corporate R&DUniversities, research labs, industry R&D
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in research developmentDetails about research-focused roles and career paths

The main difference between a Director Research Development and a Research Scientist lies in their responsibilities and focus. The Director oversees strategic planning, manages teams, and collaborates across departments, while the Research Scientist conducts experiments, analyzes data, and advances scientific knowledge. Both roles require advanced degrees, but the Director typically has more leadership experience and works in a broader strategic context.

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

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Director Research Development jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Research Development jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Director Research Development jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Director Research Development job openings:

Director Research Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Research Development job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,825 per year, or $73.5 per hour.

Research Associate

Kemin

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview

This role is located onsite in Des Moines, IA. We are seeking candidates who are currently located within commuting distance of the facility.

Kemin is seeking a Research Associate to join our Kemin Health R&D team!As a Research Associate, you will support innovative R&D projects by applying scientific methods and conducting laboratory-based research activities. Working under direct supervision, you will perform a variety of technical tasks within established guidelines to generate high-quality data and contribute to the advancement of new products, technologies, and solutions.

This position is based onsite at our World Headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, and follows a Monday through Friday schedule during standard business hours. 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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
  • Perform lab experiments within well-defined guidelines and under direct supervision; operate laboratory equipment using routine HPLC testing and analytical support. 
  • Perform literature reviews and provide written summary.
  • Draft SOP's, technical documentation, research protocols and research methods, with supervision.
  • Perform basic data analysis, with supervision.
  • Collect, interpret and document research data, with supervision.
  • Prepare and present research data and analytics in multiple formats.
  • Contribute to scientific publications used for internal purposes. 
  • Sample preparation and stability study management.
  • Data compilation and reporting.
  • Analytical support for supplier qualification projects.
Qualifications
  • Education and Experience:
    • Bachelors Degree in a Science related field (Chemistry preferred) with 0-3 years of experience OR
    • Associates Degree in a Science related field (Chemistry preferred) with 2+ years of experience 
  • Ability to work under pressure and able to handle multiple projects efficiently.
  • Analytical lab skills with a strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
  • HPLC experience required. 
  • UV-Vis experience highly preferred. 
  • Reliable and self-motivated.
  • Good understanding of Microsoft office products (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc.)
  • Good written and oral communication skills.
  • Basic understanding of English, both written and oral.
  • Ability to interact well with others in a team environment.

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 email TalentAcquisition.US@Kemin.com.

A post-offer background check and drug screen is required.  Additional pre-employment requirements may be necessary based on position.

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

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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