Research Scientist Jobs in Wisconsin
Research Scientist jobs in Wisconsin are concentrated in biomedical research, agricultural and food science, and pharmaceutical development, with a market that supports roles from entry-level lab associate to principal investigator. The heaviest hiring activity is in Madison, Milwaukee, and the Fox Valley corridor, where institutions and companies such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Exact Sciences, and MilliporeSigma maintain sustained research operations. Demand runs especially strong in oncology research, cell and gene therapy, and crop science. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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JOB OBJECTIVE: Promega is a global leader creating innovative solutions and supporting life scientists in academic, industrial, and government settings. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to contribute to the development and validation of new bioluminescent tools for studying protein dynamics, protein interactions, and cellular processes. You will advance your skills in a wide variety of cellular and biochemical techniques including fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, immunoprecipitations, and mass spectrometry as you investigate exciting biological questions. Along the way, you’ll also explore how AI can support your data analysis and experimental design. As you gain experience in technology development in an industry setting, your data will contribute directly to projects nearing commercial launch. The internship will take place at Promega's Madison, WI site and will span approximately three months, beginning in May or June 2027.
CORE DUTIES:
1. Collaborate as a bench scientist on projects utilizing cellular techniques and bioanalytical techniques such as transfections, fluorescence microscopy, FACS, and mass spectrometry.
2. Work closely with team members to meet project milestones.
3. Maintain detailed and accurate documentation of experimental work in accordance with lab standards.
4. Present findings and progress to the broader team.
5. Demonstrates inclusion through their own words and actions and is accountable for a safe workspace. Acts with kindness, curiosity and respect for others.
6. Embracing and being open to incorporating Promega’s 6 Emotional & Social Intelligence (ESI) core principles in daily work.
7. Understands and complies with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS:
1. High School diploma or proven work experience that ensures you are ready to be successful in this role.
2. Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related field, with at least two years completed prior to summer 2027.
3. Strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills.
4. Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
5. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology, including Microsoft applications and mobile platforms, with the ability to adapt and leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Familiarity with tissue culture techniques.
2. Prior experience with flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and/or bioluminescent/fluorescent reporter assays.
3. Prior experience with mass spectrometry.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
1. Ability to remain stationary at lab bench or tissue culture hood for extended periods.
2. Ability to wear protective gear (gloves, lab coat, safety glasses, etc.).
3. Ability to use a computer.
At Promega, we value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
JOB OBJECTIVE: Promega is a global leader creating innovative solutions and supporting life scientists in academic, industrial, and government settings. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to contribute to the development and validation of new bioluminescent tools for studying protein dynamics, protein interactions, and cellular processes. You will advance your skills in a wide variety of cellular and biochemical techniques including fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, immunoprecipitations, and mass spectrometry as you investigate exciting biological questions. Along the way, you’ll also explore how AI can support your data analysis and experimental design. As you gain experience in technology development in an industry setting, your data will contribute directly to projects nearing commercial launch. The internship will take place at Promega's Madison, WI site and will span approximately three months, beginning in May or June 2027.
CORE DUTIES:
1. Collaborate as a bench scientist on projects utilizing cellular techniques and bioanalytical techniques such as transfections, fluorescence microscopy, FACS, and mass spectrometry.
2. Work closely with team members to meet project milestones.
3. Maintain detailed and accurate documentation of experimental work in accordance with lab standards.
4. Present findings and progress to the broader team.
5. Demonstrates inclusion through their own words and actions and is accountable for a safe workspace. Acts with kindness, curiosity and respect for others.
6. Embracing and being open to incorporating Promega’s 6 Emotional & Social Intelligence (ESI) core principles in daily work.
7. Understands and complies with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS:
1. High School diploma or proven work experience that ensures you are ready to be successful in this role.
2. Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related field, with at least two years completed prior to summer 2027.
3. Strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills.
4. Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
5. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology, including Microsoft applications and mobile platforms, with the ability to adapt and leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Familiarity with tissue culture techniques.
2. Prior experience with flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and/or bioluminescent/fluorescent reporter assays.
3. Prior experience with mass spectrometry.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
1. Ability to remain stationary at lab bench or tissue culture hood for extended periods.
2. Ability to wear protective gear (gloves, lab coat, safety glasses, etc.).
3. Ability to use a computer.
At Promega, we value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
See All 10 Research Scientist Jobs in Wisconsin
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Find Research Scientist JobsResearch Scientist Jobs by City in Wisconsin
Where Wisconsin roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Scientist Job Market in Wisconsin
A snapshot from current Wisconsin openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
What Wisconsin Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research scientist jobs across Wisconsin.
- Ph.D. or master's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field
- Hands-on experience with laboratory techniques such as PCR, cell culture, or mass spectrometry
- Demonstrated record of designing and executing independent research studies
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software such as R, SAS, or Python for data interpretation
- Experience preparing scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, or regulatory submission documents
- Familiarity with GLP or GMP compliance standards relevant to Wisconsin biotech and pharmaceutical settings
Research Scientist Jobs in Wisconsin: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research scientist in Wisconsin?
Most research scientist positions in Wisconsin require at minimum a master's degree, and the majority of industry and academic roles expect a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline such as biochemistry, molecular biology, or chemistry. Wisconsin does not issue a state license specific to the research scientist title, so credentials come through academic training and employer-specific qualifications. Candidates targeting university positions in Madison should be prepared for postdoctoral experience as a standard expectation before independent roles open.
Which companies hire research scientists in Wisconsin?
Employers hiring research scientists in Wisconsin right now include BUTTER BUDS, Gusmer Enterprises, and Promega Corporation, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Wisconsin's mix of large research universities, established biotech firms, and agricultural science companies means openings appear across both the public and private sectors.
Which Wisconsin cities have the most research scientist jobs?
Racine, Madison, and Waupaca account for the largest share of research scientist openings in Wisconsin. Madison dominates because of the University of Wisconsin system and the biotech corridor that has grown around it, while Milwaukee draws activity from medical device companies, diagnostic firms, and hospital research programs, and smaller metro areas reflect the presence of agricultural science and specialty chemical employers in those regions.
How can I get hired as a research scientist in Wisconsin with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an undergraduate research assistantship at a University of Wisconsin campus, which gives hands-on lab experience and faculty references that Wisconsin employers recognize. Large employers such as Exact Sciences and Promega hire research associates as a formal entry-level tier, and those roles regularly accept candidates with a bachelor's degree and demonstrated lab coursework. Building proficiency in a specific technique, such as flow cytometry or CRISPR editing, and completing a senior thesis or capstone project strengthens applications considerably for these associate-level openings.
Where can I find and apply to research scientist jobs in Wisconsin?
You can find and apply to research scientist jobs in Wisconsin on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings across the state. Search for roles that match your background, specialization, and preferred location, then apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 10 Research Scientist Jobs in Wisconsin
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