1

Postdoctoral Animal Genetics Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Animal Genetics information

What is a postdoctoral animal geneticist?

Postdoctoral animal genetics researchers are scientists who have completed their doctoral studies and are engaged in advanced research related to the genetics of animals. They typically work in universities, research institutions, or industry labs, focusing on understanding genetic traits, genetic improvement, and the inheritance of diseases in animal populations. Their work often includes designing genetic experiments, analyzing DNA data, and publishing scientific findings. This research can contribute to advances in animal breeding, conservation, and biotechnology. The position is usually temporary and serves as a transitional stage before obtaining a permanent academic or industry role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral animal geneticist?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Animal Geneticist, you need a PhD in genetics, animal science, or a related field with strong expertise in molecular biology, genomics, and statistical analysis. Familiarity with bioinformatics tools, high-throughput sequencing technologies, and software like R or Python is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help you effectively share research findings and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills enable impactful research, innovation, and the advancement of animal genetics in both academic and industry settings.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral animal geneticists, and how can they be managed?

Postdoctoral researchers in animal genetics often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly advancing technologies, managing multiple research projects simultaneously, and securing funding for independent studies. Balancing lab work, data analysis, and manuscript writing can be demanding, especially in collaborative and interdisciplinary teams. Effective time management, continuous skill development, and seeking mentorship from senior researchers can help navigate these challenges and foster both professional growth and research success.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Animal Genetics vs Postdoctoral Animal Breeding?

AspectPostdoctoral Animal GeneticsPostdoctoral Animal Breeding
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Genetics, Animal Science, or related fieldPh.D. in Animal Science, Breeding, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companiesResearch farms, breeding facilities, academic institutions
Industry UsageGenetic research, genome analysis, trait selectionBreeding program development, trait improvement, herd management

Postdoctoral Animal Genetics focuses on genetic research, genome analysis, and understanding hereditary traits, often in a lab setting. In contrast, Postdoctoral Animal Breeding emphasizes developing and implementing breeding programs to improve specific traits in animal populations. Both roles require advanced degrees and are integral to animal science research, but they differ in their primary focus and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Animal Genetics jobs in Iowa?

For Postdoctoral Animal Genetics jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Animal Genetics jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Animal Genetics jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Postdoctoral Animal Genetics jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Postdoctoral Animal Genetics job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Animal Welfare and Food Animal Medicine

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Animal Welfare and Food Animal Medicine
Appointment Type:
Post Doc/Trainee
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will support VDPAM's missions in teaching, research, and clinical service. Responsibilities include contributing to instruction in animal welfare, animal handling, and clinical medicine; supporting animal welfare research projects; and providing clinical support to food animal veterinary units. The position also includes participation in emergency service and up to 20% of the on-call duty rotation for the Food Animal Veterinary Field Services unit.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree with two or more years of food animal veterinary experience
  • PhD with an emphasis in animal welfare, awarded by the position start date
  • Must have an IA license to practice veterinary, USDA category II accreditation & ability to acquire controlled drug licenses
  • Must have a valid US Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience teaching veterinary students in a food animal clinical setting.
  • Research experience in animal welfare.

Department/Program & College Description:
At VDPAM, we lead the future of food animal and population medicine. As a global center of excellence, we are recognized for our expertise, valued for our collaborative partnerships, and trusted to deliver innovative, science-driven solutions to the most pressing challenges in animal health and food production.
We advance our vision by empowering current and future veterinarians, scientists, and industry stakeholders through exceptional education, groundbreaking research, and world-class clinical and diagnostic services. Every day, we work to elevate animal health, enhance productivity and welfare, strengthen food safety, and support a sustainable global food system.
Department Unit/Website:
Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine - Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
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 21, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
Post Docs
Original Posting Date:
September 1, 2026
Posting Close Date:
September 7, 2026
Job Requisition Number:
R19873
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