Research Associate

Actalent; Iowa; On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) retirement plan

Life Insurance

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Research Associate to support media preparation and lab operations in a high-throughput plant tissue culture environment. You will adjust media formulations, maintain equipment, and manage chemical inventories while collaborating with internal teams.

The role requires a strong scientific foundation, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced lab, with adherence to safety and aseptic protocols.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, agronomy, chemistry, or related field.
• Experience with aseptic techniques in lab settings.
• Strong English communication skills (written and spoken).
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple lab activities.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift 20–45 lb.

Responsibilities

• Prepare media according to established protocols and quality standards.
• Adjust media formulations and troubleshoot with scientists.
• Track media requests and document in lab systems to meet timelines.
• Maintain and clean laboratory equipment; monitor inventory.
• Ensure safety, aseptic, and chemical handling protocols.

Skills

Aseptic techniques

Multitasking

Independent work

English communication

Lab organization

Manual lifting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Research Associate

Job Description

The Research Associate supports media preparation and laboratory operations in a high-throughput plant tissue culture environment. This role prepares and adjusts plant tissue culture media, maintains lab equipment and chemical inventory, and ensures strict adherence to safety and aseptic protocols. The position requires strong scientific fundamentals, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while collaborating with internal teams.

Responsibilities

• Prepare plant tissue culture media following established protocols and quality standards.
• Adjust media formulations and troubleshoot preparation issues in collaboration with scientists.
• Track, prioritize, and document media requests using laboratory systems to meet project timelines.
• Clean, maintain, and perform routine checks on laboratory equipment to ensure reliable operation.
• Manage chemical inventory, including labeling, storage, and monitoring stock levels.
• Communicate proactively with internal teams regarding media quality, delivery timelines, and any issues affecting workflow.
• Follow all safety, ergonomic, and aseptic procedures during media preparation and lab activities.
• Ensure compliance with chemical handling and biological hazard protocols and report any safety concerns.
• Stand for extended periods while performing laboratory work and media preparation tasks.
• Lift and move materials weighing between 20 and 45 pounds in a safe and ergonomic manner.
• Perform repetitive hand and arm movements with attention to ergonomic best practices.
• Handle multiple tasks efficiently in a high-throughput lab environment while maintaining accuracy and quality.
• Work independently while effectively organizing daily tasks and meeting deadlines.
• Maintain clear, professional documentation and communication related to laboratory operations.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, microbiology, agronomy, chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Strong foundation in chemistry, mathematics, and biology to support media preparation and lab work.
• Hands-on experience with aseptic techniques and standard laboratory practices.
• Ability to multitask and manage several laboratory activities simultaneously.
• Capability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards.
• Excellent communication skills in English, including spoken, written, and reading.
• Strong organizational skills to manage media requests, inventory, and documentation.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift 20–45 pounds, and perform repetitive movements safely.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in media preparation or plant tissue culture techniques.
• Familiarity with regulated laboratory environments and formal safety protocols.
• Prior experience in production or research laboratory settings.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining consistent media quality.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, high-throughput lab environment.
• Strong collaboration skills for working with scientists and cross-functional teams.

Work Environment

This position is based in a laboratory environment focused on plant tissue culture and media preparation. The role follows a Monday–Friday schedule from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Work involves extended periods of standing, regular lifting and moving of materials weighing 20–45 pounds, and repetitive hand and arm movements. The environment emphasizes strict adherence to aseptic techniques, chemical handling procedures, and biological hazard safety protocols. You will work with standard lab equipment, chemical inventories, and media preparation systems in a high-throughput setting that requires consistent attention to safety, quality, and ergonomic practices.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Johnston, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• S