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Genetics Plant Breeding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Vylor, Inc.

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

... breeding. Our portfolio includes trusted industry brands like Pioneer, Brevant, and Hoegemeyer ... Working knowledge of plant genetics, molecular biology, host-pathogen interactions, resistance and ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science ... Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of soil science, plant biology, animal science ... Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision ...

All JobsGenetics Plant Breeding JobsGenetics Plant Breeding Jobs in Iowa

Genetics Plant Breeding information

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$4

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How much do genetics plant breeding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for genetics plant breeding in Iowa is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a genetics plant breeding job?

Plant breeding is the process of using science to improve the genetic potential of crops. You select plants based on research, species, performance data, pedigree, variety, and genetic characteristics to create a better option. You then breed them to produce superior offspring. Progression in this industry helps improve food, shelter, landscaping, eco-systems, and fuel. Your duties vary depending on the job, but they usually involve collecting data, running experiments, studying plant genetics, growing plants, working with a specific crop, and creating reports. You can find positions as a plant breeding director, a research technician, a plant breeder, a project manager, a research scientist, a laboratory director, or a biologist.

What does a genetics plant breeding specialist do?

A Genetics Plant Breeding specialist focuses on improving plants by selecting, crossing, and developing new varieties with desirable traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability. They use principles of genetics, biotechnology, and traditional breeding methods to create crops that can better meet agricultural and consumer needs. Their work involves laboratory research, field trials, data analysis, and collaboration with other scientists and farmers. Ultimately, their goal is to enhance food security and sustainability through improved plant varieties.

What are some common challenges faced by genetics plant breeders when developing new crop varieties?

Genetics Plant Breeders often encounter challenges such as managing genetic diversity, addressing unpredictable environmental variables, and meeting strict regulatory requirements. Balancing desirable traits like yield, disease resistance, and drought tolerance while avoiding unintended consequences can be complex. Additionally, collaboration with molecular biologists, agronomists, and farmers is essential to ensure that new varieties are both scientifically robust and practically valuable in real-world conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a genetics plant breeding professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Genetics Plant Breeding professional, you need a solid background in plant genetics, crop science, and statistical analysis, typically supported by a degree in plant breeding, genetics, or a related field. Familiarity with molecular marker technologies, bioinformatics tools, and laboratory information management systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating on research and conveying findings. These skills ensure the development of improved plant varieties, efficient research processes, and successful integration of breeding innovations in agriculture.

What is the difference between Genetics Plant Breeding vs Plant Geneticist?

AspectGenetics Plant BreedingPlant Geneticist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plant Science, Genetics, or related fieldSimilar; often requires advanced degrees in Genetics or Plant Biology
Work EnvironmentResearch farms, laboratories, seed companiesLaboratories, research institutions, biotech companies
Industry UsageDeveloping new plant varieties through breeding techniquesStudying genetic makeup, gene functions, and genetic modification

Both roles focus on plant genetics but differ in approach: Genetics Plant Breeding emphasizes developing new plant varieties through traditional and modern breeding methods, while Plant Geneticists study genetic structures and functions, often working on genetic modification and research. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in plant science.

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Genetics Plant Breeding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Genetics Plant Breeding job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,845 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant Breeding and Genomic Prediction

Ames, IA • On-site

Iowa State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Iowa State Universityexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Title:Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plant Breeding and Genomic PredictionAppointment Type:Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to research focused on cover crop improvement, agronomic performance, and plant responses to environmental stress. The successful candidate will conduct advanced data analyses, design and manage controlled-environment experiments, and support the publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Key Responsibilities
  • Analyze agronomic datasets from cover crop experiments using advanced statistical and quantitative genetic approaches.
  • Apply genomic prediction methods to evaluate and improve cover crop performance.
  • Design, implement, and manage climate chamber experiments under shade and other environmental stress conditions.
  • Collect, process, and analyze seedling phenotypic data, including morphological, physiological, and stomatal traits.
  • Interpret experimental results and prepare reports, presentations, and scientific publications.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams and contribute to grant-funded research objectives.
  • Prepare final drafts of research manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

  • PhD in Plant Breeding
  • Experience in design and analysis of field experiments.
  • Experience with analysis of genome-wide marker analyses.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with crops grown along with cover crops.
  • Experience with design, conduct, and analysis of climate chamber experiments.
  • Experience analyzing plant physiological traits, particularly shade response and stomata traits.
  • Experience working in large interdisciplinary teams.
  • Experience with publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Department/Program & College Description:

The Department of Agronomy in Iowa State University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a nationally recognized leader in crop production, plant breeding, genetics, soil science, and sustainable agricultural systems. The department conducts innovative research that addresses global challenges in food security, environmental stewardship, and agricultural resilience while fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and translating discoveries into practical solutions for producers and society

Department Unit/Website:
Agronomy | College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date:September 24, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:August 19, 2026Posting Close Date:August 25, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19794

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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