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Research & Development Scientist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Vylor, Inc.

Research Scientist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Lead the development, optimization, and execution of fungal disease resistance assays in whole ... Serve as a scientific lead for mycology-focused plant pathology research, including fungal pathogen ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist I

Ames, IA · On-site

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering advances research and education focused on the development, characterization, and application of materials that address real-world challenges.

Iowa State University

Research Scientist I

Ames, IA · On-site

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering advances research and education focused on the development, characterization, and application of materials that address real-world challenges.

Elanco

Bio Process Scientist

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

Lead or support the transfer of new vaccine products from Research & Development into commercial ... Apply scientific expertise to troubleshoot complex vaccine manufacturing processes and identify ...

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$47.4K

$122.2K

$163.4K

How much do research & development scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for research & development scientist in Iowa is $122,214.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Research & Development Scientist do?

A Research & Development (R&D) Scientist is responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments to develop new products or improve existing ones. They work in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, technology, food, and chemicals, to innovate and solve complex problems. Their role involves staying updated on scientific advancements, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and ensuring that new developments meet industry standards and regulations. R&D Scientists play a crucial part in driving technological progress and maintaining a company's competitive edge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research & Development Scientist?

To thrive as a Research & Development Scientist, you need a strong background in scientific research, data analysis, and experimental design, usually supported by an advanced degree in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software, and compliance with regulatory standards (such as GLP or GMP) is often required. Critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for generating innovative solutions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving scientific advancements and successfully bringing new products or processes to market.

What are some common challenges faced by Research & Development Scientists during the product development process?

Research & Development Scientists often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative ideas with practical constraints like budget, time, and regulatory requirements. They may need to troubleshoot unexpected technical issues or adapt to changing project goals. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as engineering, marketing, and quality assurance, is crucial to ensure the feasibility and market readiness of new products. Effective communication and adaptability are key to navigating these challenges and achieving successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Research & Development Scientist vs Quality Control Analyst?

AspectResearch & Development ScientistQuality Control Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Science or EngineeringBachelor's in Science or related field, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, product development teamsLaboratories, quality assurance labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical, biotech, consumer goods, tech companiesManufacturing, pharmaceutical, food & beverage industries
Primary FocusDeveloping new products, improving formulations, innovationEnsuring product quality, testing, compliance, and standards

Research & Development Scientists focus on creating and improving products through experimentation and innovation, while Quality Control Analysts ensure products meet quality standards through testing and inspection. Both roles are essential in product development and manufacturing industries, often working closely but with distinct responsibilities.

Are research & development scientists paid well?

Research & development scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, industry, and location. They often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and salaries tend to increase with specialized skills and advanced degrees like a master's or Ph.D.

What degree do you need for research and development scientist?

A research and development scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as chemistry, biology, engineering, or a related science. Many roles prefer or require a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research positions. Strong analytical skills and experience with laboratory tools are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Research & Development Scientist jobs in Iowa?

For Research & Development Scientist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research & Development Scientist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Research & Development Scientist jobs in Iowa are:

Research Development Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research & Development Scientist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,214 per year, or $58.8 per hour.

Bio Process Scientist

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated
Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Elanco Animal Health Incorporatedexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

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: Bio Process Research Scientist
As a Bio Process Research Scientist, you will be part of the Technical Services & Manufacturing Sciences (TS/MS) team supporting the commercialization, optimization, and lifecycle management of animal health vaccine manufacturing processes. In this role, you will apply scientific expertise to solve complex manufacturing challenges, lead technology transfer and process improvement initiatives, and partner with Research & Development and Manufacturing to advance innovative vaccine products from development through commercial production.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Lead or support the transfer of new vaccine products from Research & Development into commercial manufacturing through scale-up, validation, registration, and commercialization activities.
  • Apply scientific expertise to troubleshoot complex vaccine manufacturing processes and identify root causes while implementing effective technical solutions.
  • Drive process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives that improve productivity, product quality, process robustness, and manufacturing efficiency.
  • Lead technology transfer activities within your area of expertise to ensure successful implementation, robust process control, and on-time project execution.
  • Design, execute, and analyze experiments using Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies, author technical documentation, and support manufacturing instructions and SAP material planning models.

What You Need to Succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • Education: Ph.D. in Microbiology, Virology, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology, or another relevant scientific discipline.
  • Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience supporting vaccine, biologics, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, including commercialization or process development activities.
  • Top Skills: Strong scientific problem-solving and process optimization skills, combined with experience in large-scale viral and bacterial antigen manufacturing and cross-functional collaboration.

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Experience supporting technology transfer, process validation, and commercialization of biological or vaccine products.
  • Knowledge of large-scale viral and bacterial antigen manufacturing processes.
  • Experience using Design of Experiments (DOE) and JMP® for statistical analysis and process optimization.
  • Familiarity with USDA regulatory requirements and regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Strong technical writing, project management, and communication skills with the ability to lead multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

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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