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Protein Design Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Protein Design information

What is protein design?

Protein design is the process of creating new proteins or modifying existing ones to have specific functions or properties. This can involve using computational tools, laboratory techniques, or a combination of both to predict and engineer amino acid sequences that will fold into desired three-dimensional structures. Protein design is used in various fields, including medicine, biotechnology, and research, to develop novel enzymes, therapeutics, or materials. The field requires a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and computer science to achieve successful outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protein design scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protein Design Scientist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and computational modeling, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Proficiency with tools such as Rosetta, PyMOL, and molecular dynamics simulation software, as well as experience with protein expression and purification techniques, is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills to drive innovation and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing functional proteins, troubleshooting experiments, and advancing research goals in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in protein design, and how are they addressed within a team setting?

Professionals in protein design often encounter challenges such as predicting accurate protein folding, ensuring stability, and achieving desired biological activity. These complexities are typically addressed through close collaboration with computational biologists, structural biologists, and experimental scientists. Teams frequently hold cross-functional meetings to troubleshoot issues, share findings, and iterate on design strategies based on laboratory results. This collaborative environment helps leverage diverse expertise and accelerates the development of novel proteins with desired functions.

What is the difference between Protein Design vs Protein Engineering?

AspectProtein DesignProtein Engineering
Required CredentialsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, BioinformaticsBiochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academiaResearch labs, biotech companies, academia
Industry UsageDesigning novel proteins, drug development, synthetic biologyModifying existing proteins for improved function or stability

Protein Design focuses on creating new proteins with specific functions, often using computational methods. Protein Engineering involves modifying existing proteins to enhance or alter their properties. Both roles require similar skills and are used in research, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries, but their goals differ: one designs from scratch, the other optimizes existing proteins.

What are popular job titles related to Protein Design jobs in Iowa?

For Protein Design jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Protein Design jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Protein Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Protein Design job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Research Assistant - Anesthesia, Obal's Lab

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


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Job description

Description
The Department of Anesthesia is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to participate in a cardiovascular research project. The research primarily utilizes patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes to model cardiac disorders. The successful candidate must have experience in human cell culture techniques, genomic and protein expression molecular techniques with an excellent record keeping ability and organization skills. Prior experience with induced pluripotent stem cell research is highly desired, but not a requirement. A minimal part of the project will include animal experiments and prior experience working with mice is desired. The candidate must exhibit a great deal of independence and be able to independently design experiments, carry them out and assist with analyzing and presenting data.
Position Responsibilities:
Research
o Induced pluripotent stem cell culture and maintenance.
o Cardiomyocyte, smooth muscle cell, and endothelial cell differentiation from human iPSCs.
o Perform cardiomyocyte, smooth cell, and endothelial cell phenotype and molecular evaluation protocols.
Experiments, Investigations, Evaluations
o Read and understand existing experiments and protocols in support of ongoing research projects based on knowledge of scientific theory.
o Set up and operate research materials or equipment. Perform procedures assuring fidelity to protocols.
o Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Collect, record, and consolidate data as directed by the PI. Track the progress of research activities. Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain the validity and integrity of research data.
o Subcutaneous injection of drugs in pregnant mice.
o As individual skills develop: troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; test and evaluate current procedures; develop and implement procedures for monitoring data integrity; and present results at lab meetings
Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications
o Interpret and perform analyses of results with the help of postdocs, research staff, and PI.
o Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and related research.
o Offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols
o Maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes
o Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals
Administrative and Project Management
o Assist with general lab maintenance as needed; assist with maintaining lab stock, assist with management of chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed
o Assist with IRB, IACUC, or similar protocol submission. Assist in documenting compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines
• Facilities and Equipment Management
o Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment. Assist with the procurement of supplies and materials. May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures, and reconcile statements.
• Supervision/Staffing
o As skills develop, may train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of students and newer employees.
• Other duties as assigned
For a full job description, please send an e-mail to the contact listed below.
About The Department of Anesthesia:
The Department of Anesthesia provides exceptional patient experiences and a positive work environment through excellence, compassionate care, continuous improvement, innovative research, and collaborative learning.
Qualifications
Education Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Experience Requirements:
• General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
• Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
• General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
Desired Qualifications:
• A Bachelor of Science in molecular biology or related discipline or equivalent experience
• Two year's experience
• Technical writing experience in SOP's, protocols, and reports
• Proficiency with human cell culture techniques, experience with iPSC is highly valued
• Experience with laboratory animal experiments, in particular, s.c. injection of drugs
• Experience with tissue homogenization and single cell preparation from various tissues, primarily cardiomyocytes
• Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR, and recombinant DNA techniques
• Routinely perform cardiomyocyte and endothelial cell differentiation experiments using human iPSCs
• Possess initiative, ability to multi-task and a desire to acquire new technical skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and collaborators
• Experimental design, execution of plan and presentation of data to team
• Utilization of good documentation practices
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 for calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.
This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.
Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact Joseph Mulangaliro at joseph-mulangaliro@uiowa.edu .

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