Research Scientist - Virology

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

16h • Onsite

About The Position

The College of Veterinary Medicine (Caceres Lab) is seeking a Research Scientist I to support virology and molecular biology research within the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful studies involving influenza viruses, coronaviruses, and PRRSV while working in a collaborative, research driven environment. We are looking for a motivated scientist who enjoys hands‑on laboratory work, coordinating research activities, and supporting the success of a dynamic research group.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree

Nice To Haves

• Experience performing molecular biology and virology techniques such as PCR, RT‑qPCR, cloning, Western blotting, reverse genetics, and cell culture.
• Demonstrated experience working with viral pathogens (e.g., influenza, coronaviruses, PRRSV) in research or diagnostic laboratory settings.
• Experience writing scientific documents such as manuscripts, SOPs, technical reports, or grant proposal sections.
• Experience coordinating laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, inventory management, purchasing, or providing guidance to laboratory personnel.

Responsibilities

• Perform virology and molecular biology techniques, including PCR, cloning, RT‑qPCR, Western blotting, reverse genetics, cell culture, and virus-based assays.
• Lead and support research activities such as preparing reagents, maintaining cell lines, drafting manuscripts and SOPs, and assisting with grant proposals and project planning.
• Participate in and help coordinate in vivo studies involving avian and mammalian species.
• Manage daily laboratory operations including purchasing supplies, maintaining equipment, tracking inventory, and guiding laboratory personnel.
• Work closely with the principal investigator, research staff, students, and vendors to support laboratory efficiency and research progress.
• Develops, designs and conducts one or more small or moderately complex research projects or experiments in line with plan, reviews progress and evaluates results.
• Formulates research methods and suggests options for improving quality, identifies potential problems, recommends and implements solutions, and collaborates in the development of new techniques.
• Assists with publications and writing or developing grants.
• Trains users in equipment operation and laboratory techniques, explains and demonstrates technology and equipment capabilities, operations, limitations and outcomes.
• Coordinates data collection and screening and verifies the data.
• Conducts analysis of data, interprets and implements research methodology based on outcome of analysis.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• 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