Mosquito Research Scientist

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

37d

About The Position

The Smith Lab at Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist I to support interdisciplinary research on mosquito biology, innate immunity, and vector-borne disease transmission. The Research Scientist will play a central role in supporting laboratory research operations, conducting molecular and cellular experiments, maintaining mosquito colonies and transgenic lines, and collaborating with lab members and external research partners. This position requires strong organizational skills, experience with molecular biology techniques, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

Join a collaborative research team exploring mosquito biology and the mechanisms behind vector-borne disease transmission. The Smith Lab uses molecular, genetic, and genomic approaches to study mosquito immunity and host–pathogen interactions, advancing strategies to control diseases like malaria and West Nile virus and contributing to research with meaningful global public health impact. This role provides hands-on experience with cutting-edge research techniques in a well-equipped laboratory, offering opportunities to build a research portfolio, contribute to publications, and prepare for graduate study or research careers. The lab fosters a supportive, collaborative environment with a strong track record of mentoring team members and values candidates who can communicate clearly, work well with others, and take an active role in overseeing lab activities and safety. Candidates will be hired as a Research Scientist I. This is a term position with the possibility of renewal. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• strong organizational skills
• experience with molecular biology techniques
• the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, and genomic DNA/RNA preparation.
• Previous experience in animal handling/rearing, with preference for mosquitoes or other insect systems.
• Involvement in research projects leading to publication as reports, thesis, or scientific manuscripts.
• Experience mentoring, training, or teaching others in a laboratory, research, or classroom setting.

Responsibilities

• Assist with laboratory management, including scheduling staff, ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with laboratory safety protocols.
• Maintain mosquito colonies and transgenic mosquito lines used in genetic and immunological research.
• Perform molecular biology techniques such as PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, and DNA/RNA extraction and preparation.
• Conduct mosquito sorting, dissections, and microinjections using stereoscopes and compound microscopes.
• Collaborate with lab members to design and execute experiments, analyze data, and troubleshoot research challenges.
• Prepare data, figures, and documentation for presentations, reports, and scientific publications while maintaining accurate laboratory records.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level