Weekend Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Research Associate performs laboratory experiments within well-defined guidelines, operates analytical equipment, and supports research projects under direct supervision. This role contributes to the development, documentation, and presentation of scientific data, and plays a key part in internal research initiatives within a modern, state-of-the-art facility.

• Perform laboratory experiments within well-defined guidelines and under direct supervision, following established procedures and safety standards.
• Operate laboratory equipment, including instruments used for pipetting, HPLC, and enzyme assays, to support ongoing research projects.
• Draft standard operating procedures (SOPs), research protocols, and research methods under supervision, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and compliance with internal standards.
• Perform basic data analysis with supervision, using appropriate analytical tools and methods to interpret experimental results.
• Collect, interpret, and document research data under supervision, maintaining accurate and organized records in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
• Prepare research data and analytics in multiple formats, including tables, graphs, and summaries, to support internal reporting and decision-making.
• Present research data and findings in multiple formats, such as internal reports, presentations, or meetings, to communicate progress and outcomes to the team.
• Contribute to scientific publications and internal technical documents by providing data, analysis, and technical input.
• Collaborate effectively with team members in a laboratory environment, supporting shared goals and contributing to a positive and productive team culture.
• Maintain high attention to detail in all laboratory and documentation activities to ensure data integrity and reliable results.
• Manage multiple projects and tasks efficiently under supervision, prioritizing work to meet deadlines and project timelines.

• Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry or Chemistry with 0–3 years of related experience, or an Associate's degree with 2+ years of related experience.
• Hands-on experience with pipetting in a laboratory environment.
• Experience with HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography).
• Enzyme assay experience.
• Analytical laboratory skills with strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
• High attention to detail in experimental work and documentation.
• Experience using Excel for data entry, analysis, and reporting.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects efficiently.
• Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work productively with supervision.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to interact well with others and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

• Experience drafting SOPs, research protocols, and research methods under supervision.
• Experience preparing and presenting research data in multiple formats for internal audiences.
• Interest in contributing to scientific publications and internal technical reports.
• Strong organizational skills for managing experimental workflows and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities in a research setting.

This role is based in a state-of-the-art headquarters facility that supports a global ingredient manufacturing organization focused on improving the quality of life for a large portion of the world's population. The campus includes modern amenities such as a Starbucks, cafeteria, and gym. The position follows a standard Monday through Friday schedule from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (40 hours per week) and is structured as a 6-month contract. The work takes place in an analytical laboratory environment using equipment such as pipettes, HPLC systems, and assay platforms. Team members work closely with scientists and researchers in a collaborative setting, with an emphasis on safety, precision, and high-quality scientific work. Dress expectations align with working in a professional laboratory setting, including appropriate lab attire and use of personal protective equipment as required.

This is a Contract position based out of Des Moines, IA.

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Des Moines,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 17, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.