Research Associate Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Iowa
Iowa's research associate jobs are concentrated in its university medical centers and agribusiness research corridors, with the University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa State University, and companies like Pioneer (Corteva Agriscience) regularly hiring for these roles. Des Moines, Iowa City, and Ames see the most activity, and many positions come with visa sponsorship for qualified international candidates.
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Get Access To All JobsThe Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is seeking a full-time Research Associate in the laboratory of Dr. Anthony Pedley. The successful candidate will conduct biochemical, molecular biology, and microscopy-based experiments to further our understanding of cellular metabolism, with an emphasis on purine metabolism and biomolecular condensate biology. In addition to carrying out research, the Research Associate will assist in the daily operations of the laboratory, including overseeing equipment and inventory management, safety compliance, and training of new lab members.
Position Responsibilities:
- Perform literature searches on specific topics for use in refining directions in the laboratory
- Perform experiments based on given hypotheses and goals
- Assist in analysis and interpretation of data
- Keep an accurate and current record of all experimental details, results (both raw and analyzed data)
- Maintain mammalian cell culture lines by feeding, passaging, and storing
- Perform biochemistry, molecular biology, and microscopy techniques such as generating plasmids, cloning, immunoassays (Western blot, immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitations), and confocal microscopy
- Complete work within specified time guidelines and readily discuss progress and troubleshooting efforts when needed
- Present research progress at lab meetings
- Assist in preparation of manuscripts by organizing data and preparing figures, written blurbs pertaining to methods and figures
- Assist in archiving experimental data from all lab members
- Ensure that all paperwork for new and departing lab personnel is completed, including annual training, biohazard and laboratory safety trainings
- Maintain accurate records of lab inventories
- Ensure lab members are completing monthly lab responsibilities
- Help organize biannual lab clean-up activities
- Oversee undergraduate students in successful completion of the assigned tasks
- Work collaboratively with graduate students, other lab researchers, and collaborators
Percent of Time: 100%
Staff Type: Professional & Scientific
Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
Pay Grade: 4A
Benefits Highlights
Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
For more information about Why Iowa?, click here
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, or a related field
- 5 or more years of training in a research laboratory
- At least 3 years of experience in mammalian cell culture
- Experience with basic biochemistry, molecular biology, and fluorescence microscopy techniques including immunoblotting, cloning, immunoprecipitations, and live and fixed cell imaging
- Experience in gathering, recording, and analyzing data with accuracy and attention to detail in a timely manner to assist in meeting deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience in presenting findings to a research group
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
Desirable Qualifications:
- Experience in microscopy with familiarity with advanced techniques and quantitative image analysis
- Experience in writing standard operating procedures
- Experience in training undergraduate students
- Able to manage multiple projects and adapt to shifting priorities
Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or resume, and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 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. Professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact Anne Beyerink at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is seeking a full-time Research Associate in the laboratory of Dr. Anthony Pedley. The successful candidate will conduct biochemical, molecular biology, and microscopy-based experiments to further our understanding of cellular metabolism, with an emphasis on purine metabolism and biomolecular condensate biology. In addition to carrying out research, the Research Associate will assist in the daily operations of the laboratory, including overseeing equipment and inventory management, safety compliance, and training of new lab members.
Position Responsibilities:
- Perform literature searches on specific topics for use in refining directions in the laboratory
- Perform experiments based on given hypotheses and goals
- Assist in analysis and interpretation of data
- Keep an accurate and current record of all experimental details, results (both raw and analyzed data)
- Maintain mammalian cell culture lines by feeding, passaging, and storing
- Perform biochemistry, molecular biology, and microscopy techniques such as generating plasmids, cloning, immunoassays (Western blot, immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitations), and confocal microscopy
- Complete work within specified time guidelines and readily discuss progress and troubleshooting efforts when needed
- Present research progress at lab meetings
- Assist in preparation of manuscripts by organizing data and preparing figures, written blurbs pertaining to methods and figures
- Assist in archiving experimental data from all lab members
- Ensure that all paperwork for new and departing lab personnel is completed, including annual training, biohazard and laboratory safety trainings
- Maintain accurate records of lab inventories
- Ensure lab members are completing monthly lab responsibilities
- Help organize biannual lab clean-up activities
- Oversee undergraduate students in successful completion of the assigned tasks
- Work collaboratively with graduate students, other lab researchers, and collaborators
Percent of Time: 100%
Staff Type: Professional & Scientific
Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
Pay Grade: 4A
Benefits Highlights
Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
For more information about Why Iowa?, click here
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, or a related field
- 5 or more years of training in a research laboratory
- At least 3 years of experience in mammalian cell culture
- Experience with basic biochemistry, molecular biology, and fluorescence microscopy techniques including immunoblotting, cloning, immunoprecipitations, and live and fixed cell imaging
- Experience in gathering, recording, and analyzing data with accuracy and attention to detail in a timely manner to assist in meeting deadlines
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience in presenting findings to a research group
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
Desirable Qualifications:
- Experience in microscopy with familiarity with advanced techniques and quantitative image analysis
- Experience in writing standard operating procedures
- Experience in training undergraduate students
- Able to manage multiple projects and adapt to shifting priorities
Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or resume, and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 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. Professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact Anne Beyerink at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.
Research Associate Job Roles in Iowa
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Search Research Associate Jobs in IowaResearch Associate Jobs in Iowa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for research associates in Iowa?
Iowa's primary research associate visa sponsors include the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and Corteva Agriscience (formerly Pioneer Hi-Bred), which operates large agricultural research facilities in Johnston. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and smaller biotech firms in the Iowa City and Ames corridors also have established sponsorship track records, particularly for H-1B and J-1 positions in laboratory and clinical research settings.
Which visa types are most common for research associate roles in Iowa?
H-1B is the most common visa for research associate roles at Iowa's private and corporate employers, requiring a bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field. University and nonprofit research institutions frequently use J-1 Exchange Visitor visas for postdoctoral and research scholar positions. Some research associates at Iowa academic institutions also enter on OPT before transitioning to H-1B sponsorship once a full-time offer is extended.
Which cities in Iowa have the most research associate sponsorship jobs?
Iowa City leads due to the University of Iowa's extensive research programs across biomedical, pharmaceutical, and clinical sciences. Ames is close behind, driven by Iowa State University and its agricultural and life sciences research divisions. Des Moines and the nearby suburb of Johnston host corporate research roles, particularly in agribusiness and health sciences, making these three metros the most active areas for sponsored research associate positions.
How to find research associate visa sponsorship jobs in Iowa?
Migrate Mate is specifically built for international candidates and filters research associate roles in Iowa by visa sponsorship availability, so you avoid applying to positions that won't support work authorization. Beyond the job board, focus your search on Iowa's major research employers directly, including university HR portals at the University of Iowa and Iowa State. Migrate Mate surfaces roles from both academic and corporate sponsors across Iowa City, Ames, and Des Moines.
Are there any Iowa-specific factors research associates should know before applying?
Iowa's research associate market is heavily tied to its agricultural research sector and its two major public universities, which means hiring cycles often align with academic calendars and federal grant cycles. Positions at Iowa State and the University of Iowa's research centers tend to be cap-exempt for H-1B purposes, which removes the lottery uncertainty that applies to private employers. Applicants should verify whether a specific position is grant-funded, as funding timelines can affect role duration.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored research associate jobs in Iowa?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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