Scientist

Element Materials Technology • North Liberty, IA

4d

About The Position

Element has a current opening for a Scientist I-III to join our growing team in North Liberty, IA. Scientists at Levels I–III contribute to contracted studies and internal research projects within the organization. This role involves designing and executing experiments, analyzing data, and supporting scientific innovation. Depending on level, individuals are expected to demonstrate increasing independence, technical expertise, and leadership in solving complex scientific problems.
Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to ‘Make tomorrow safer than today’.
When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.
While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.
Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Requirements

• Scientist I: Bachelor’s degree in scientific discipline (Microbiology preferred)3–6 years of research and development experienceLaboratory experience in microbiology or related field preferred
• Scientist II: Bachelor’s degree with 5–8 years of relevant experience, orMaster’s or Ph.D. with 3–6 years of experienceDemonstrated ability to independently manage projects and analyze complex dataLaboratory experience in microbiology or related field preferred
• Scientist III: Master’s degree with 7–10 years of experience, orPh.D. with 5–8+ years of experienceProven track record of leading research projects and developing innovative solutionsStrong experience in in microbiology or related field preferred laboratory environments

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and execute experiments for both contracted studies and internal research projects while ensuring compliance with quality standards, including adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Proactively identify gaps, inefficiencies, or areas for improvement in existing processes, methodologies, or SOPs, and propose practical, science-based solutions
• Analyze experimental data and collaborate with IT teams to support data processing, storage, and reporting needs.
• Manage and oversee assigned laboratory testing, research, and development activities (level-dependent responsibility).
• Develop, review, and revise standard operating procedures (SOPs) to enhance study quality and operational efficiency.
• Apply critical thinking to evaluate novel methodologies, including non-standard antimicrobial tests and emerging technologies.
• Contribute to the preparation and review of client proposals, technical documents, and grant submissions.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with study protocols through data review and quality checks.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, including review of reports, manuscripts, and study documentation.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and summaries of research findings.
• Present research results to internal stakeholders and scientific teams.
• Represent the organization at conferences and professional events.
• Maintain current knowledge of scientific, technical, and industry developments relevant to microbiology and research practices.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees