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Full Time Assay Development Scientist Jobs in Iowa

Actalent

Senior Scientist

Charles City, IA

$82K - $113K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Senior Scientist The Senior Scientist plays a key role in developing, validating, and implementing ... Proficiency in assay development, method validation, and routine laboratory operations. * PhD in ...

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Full Time Assay Development Scientist information

What is a full time assay development scientist?

A Full Time Assay Development Scientist is a laboratory professional who specializes in designing, developing, and optimizing analytical assays for various scientific applications, such as drug discovery, diagnostics, or quality control. They work in research and development teams, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and troubleshooting assay protocols to ensure accuracy and reliability. Their role also involves documenting results, validating new methods, and collaborating with other scientists to support project goals. Typically, they have advanced degrees in biology, chemistry, or related fields and possess strong problem-solving and technical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time assay development scientist?

To thrive as a Full Time Assay Development Scientist, you need a strong background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, typically with an advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) and experience in assay design and optimization. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as ELISA, PCR, and data analysis software, as well as experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting experiments. These skills are crucial for ensuring the development of robust, reliable assays that advance research and product development objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by full time assay development scientists during the transition from research to routine clinical or commercial assays?

Full Time Assay Development Scientists often encounter challenges when translating laboratory protocols into robust assays suitable for routine clinical or commercial use. These challenges can include optimizing assay reproducibility, ensuring consistent performance across different sample types, and meeting regulatory requirements. Scientists also need to collaborate closely with quality assurance, manufacturing, and regulatory teams to validate and document procedures. Overcoming these hurdles requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective cross-functional communication.

What is the difference between Full Time Assay Development Scientist vs Research Associate?

AspectFull Time Assay Development ScientistResearch Associate
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, relevant experienceBachelor's or Master's in Life Sciences, entry-level experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focused on assay development and validationResearch labs supporting various projects, often assisting assay teams
Industry UsageCommon in biotech, pharma, and diagnostics companiesUsed across research institutions and biotech firms

The Full Time Assay Development Scientist typically has more specialized experience in designing and validating assays, working independently on development projects. In contrast, the Research Associate often supports research activities, assisting assay development under supervision. Both roles are essential in biotech and pharma industries, but the Scientist role involves greater responsibility and expertise in assay creation and optimization.

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

The most popular types of Assay Development Scientist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Assay Development Scientist jobs in Iowa?

For Full Time Assay Development Scientist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Assay Development Scientist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Assay Development Scientist jobs in Iowa are:

Full Time Assay Development Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Assay Development 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.

Research Scientist - Analytical Development

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
Your Role:
Research Scientist
The Research Scientist (R1 level) in Vaccine Technical Development plays a critical role in effectively and efficiently leading and advancing research and development projects. This position leverages deep technical expertise to ensure projects progress on schedule and within budget, while maintaining high standards of quality, innovation, and collaboration.
This role operates within the Process Development/Assay Development (PD/AD) functional group and operates cross-functionally across the Elanco network. The Research Scientist leads multiple large-scale projects, contributes to strategic planning, and drives continuous improvement in technical methodologies. This role also supports the full innovation cycle, contributing to the successful development, validation, and licensure of vaccine products.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Lead projects by developing technical plans, coordinating cross-functional alignment, and ensuring milestone achievement. Drive innovation by generating new ideas, accelerating timelines, and improving technical approaches.

  • Design and implement experiments, methods, protocols, and SOPs to support process and assay development improvements. Perform hands-on laboratory work, including development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new methods and techniques.

  • Represent Technical Development on project teams, defining goals, making decisions, and securing necessary resources. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to meet project and customer requirements.

  • Analyze and interpret complex data, providing clear, actionable insights to project teams and leadership. Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges within area of expertise.

  • Maintain accountability for project deliverables and team commitments, demonstrating Elanco's values and expected behaviors. Identify and leverage internal resources to execute projects effectively with minimal reliance on management oversight.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):
  • Education & Experience: Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Immunology, Bacteriology, Molecular Biology) with at least 1 year of industry or post-doctoral experience; OR a Master of Science (M.S.) degree with 5+ years of experience in vaccine analytical development.

  • Technical & Leadership Skills: Proven hands-on expertise in analytical method development (e.g., potency assays, ELISA, viral titration) combined with demonstrated experience leading technical projects in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment.

  • Communication & Influence: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to influence technical and business outcomes.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):
  • Direct experience with the USDA regulatory framework for animal biologics.

  • A strong background in developing and validating potency assays for licensed vaccines.

  • Proven success in mentoring and training junior scientific staff.

  • Experience managing the technical transfer of methods to QC or manufacturing teams.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and adapt to shifting priorities.

Additional Information:
  • Travel: 0-15%

  • Location: Fort Dodge, Iowa - On-Site Work Environment

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!
Elanco Benefits and Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:
  • Multiple relocation packages

  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)

  • 8-week parental leave

  • 9 Employee Resource Groups

  • Annual bonus offering

  • Flexible work arrangements

  • Up to 6% 401K matching

#LI-JC1
Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status
Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against job-related criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.

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