ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Microbiome Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Hope

Research Associate I

Duarte, CA · On-site

We are looking for a Research Associate I to work in the lab of Dr. Robert Jenq ... The Jenq Lab examines the impact of the microbiome on cancer treatment outcomes, with a focus on ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMicrobiome Research Associate Jobs

Microbiome Research Associate information

See salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do microbiome research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for microbiome research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Microbiome Research Associate do?

A Microbiome Research Associate supports scientific studies investigating the communities of microorganisms that live in various environments, such as the human gut, soil, or water. Their responsibilities often include preparing samples, conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing DNA sequences, and using bioinformatics tools to interpret data. They also help maintain lab equipment, record results, and may contribute to writing research reports or scientific publications. This role is vital in advancing our understanding of how microbial communities impact health, disease, and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microbiome Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microbiome Research Associate, you need a solid background in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a life science field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and bioinformatics tools like QIIME or R is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for accurate data interpretation and teamwork. These competencies are crucial for producing reliable research results and advancing scientific understanding of microbial communities.

How does a Microbiome Research Associate typically collaborate with other team members in a research setting?

As a Microbiome Research Associate, you will regularly collaborate with principal investigators, laboratory technicians, and bioinformaticians to design experiments, process samples, and analyze data. This role often involves attending team meetings to discuss research goals, troubleshooting protocols, and sharing findings. Effective communication is essential, as you may need to present your results or contribute to manuscript preparation. Working closely with cross-disciplinary teams fosters a dynamic environment and can provide opportunities to learn new techniques and expand your expertise.

What is the difference between Microbiome Research Associate vs Microbiome Laboratory Technician?

AspectMicrobiome Research AssociateMicrobiome Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in microbiology, biology, or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant laboratory training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, biotech companiesLaboratories, clinical settings, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageResearch-focused roles in academia, biotech, and healthcareTechnical support and sample processing in labs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in microbiome studiesTechnical lab work and sample handling

Microbiome Research Associates typically hold advanced degrees and focus on designing experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting microbiome research. In contrast, Microbiome Laboratory Technicians perform technical tasks like sample preparation and lab maintenance. Both roles are essential in microbiome research but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Microbiome Research Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Microbiome Research Associate jobs? Cities with the most Microbiome Research Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Microbiome Research jobs? The most popular types of Microbiome Research jobs are:
What states have the most Microbiome Research Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Microbiome Research Associate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Microbiome Research Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Microbiome Research Associate jobs are:
Microbiome Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microbiome Research Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Environmental Microbiome Research

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Environmental Microbiome Research

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

292nd of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Postdoctoral Research Associate - Environmental Microbiome ResearchAppointment Type:Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join a team investigating the mechanistic interpretation of microbiome dynamics. This work applies principles of quantitative ecology to systems microbiology, with the goal of strengthening the links between microbial cellular physiology, community dynamics, and ecosystem function.

Our research focuses on plant-microbial interactions for sustainable bioenergy and nutrient cycling, as well as understanding bacterial stress responses under environmental perturbations. The project will involve cultivating environmental bacteria from soil under controlled laboratory conditions and integrating wet-lab microbial ecology with cultivation approaches. Additional work will include imaging-based physiology, molecular and multi-omic workflows, and quantitative and computational analyses of microbial communities.

The successful candidate will also apply statistical modeling for mechanistic inference and conduct biogeographic and geospatial analyses of microbiomes.

This position involves collaborating with scientists and technical staff and leading independent research initiatives in environmental microbiome science. The candidate will be expected to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

  • PhD in Environmental Engineering or related field.
  • Record of peer-reviewed publications demonstrating scientific initiative and originality
  • Experience in designing, running, and analyzing data from image-based physiology and single-cell activity profiling

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with cultivation techniques for plant, fungal, or bacterial interaction studies
  • Proven ability to independently design and execute research projects, with strong communication skills demonstrated through scientific presentations and preparation of manuscripts and other written materials.
  • Experience analyzing 'omics datasets (e.g., metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, metaproteomics, or metabolomics)
  • Experience conducting biogeographic and geospatial analyses

Department/Program & College Description:

The Iowa State University College of Engineering is dedicated to educating future engineering leaders and advancing research that addresses real-world challenges. The program combines academic rigor, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare graduates to create innovative solutions that benefit society.

Department Unit/Website:
College of Engineering - Iowa State University

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

We request that candidates please explain work-related experience around the topics below within the submitted Cover Letter:


- Experience in designing, running, and analyzing data from image-based physiology and single-cell activity profiling
- Experience in using molecular and multi-omic workflows and quantitative and computational community ecology
- Experience in statistical modeling
- Experience in biogeographic and geospatial analysis of microbiomes
- Experience with bioinformatics and statistical analyses of metabolic pathways, functional gene patterns, and microbial community assembly.

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:October 1, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:June 22, 2026Posting Close Date:June 29, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19481

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.

What Iowa State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply