Research Technician II - Reproductive Health & PFAS

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits (defined benefit/2

Onsite childcare (Ames, IA)

Life insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts

Employee Assistance Program

Wellbeing program

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Research Technician II to support pioneering PFAS-related ovarian function research. You will work within the Department of Animal Science, gaining exposure to animal handling, molecular biology, and data analysis, contributing to projects with potential health implications.

The role emphasizes teamwork, protocol development, and training junior staff, in a collaborative environment that supports career development.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and 3 years of related experience.
• Bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, biochemistry, molecular biology, reproductive physiology, or a related field preferred.
• Experience with molecular or cellular laboratory techniques such as RNA isolation, protein extraction, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, histology, or microscopy preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate laboratory activities, prepare reagents and experimental materials, and maintain accurate research records and inventories.
• Perform animal research procedures, including dosing, breeding colony management, tissue collection, necropsy support, and biological sample processing per approved protocols.
• Conduct molecular and cellular techniques such as RNA isolation, protein extraction, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, histological processing, microscopy, and follicle quantification.
• Collect, organize, analyze, and maintain data from animal studies and experiments with data quality and integrity.
• Prepare datasets, summaries, figures, and reports to support publications, presentations, and grant reporting.
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Assist with developing and validating protocols and recommending improvements.
• Train undergraduate and graduate personnel on research techniques and safety practices.
• Communicate findings and recommendations with the principal investigator and team.

Skills

Laboratory teamwork

Data analysis

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in biology/related field

Tools

RNA isolation

Protein extraction

Western blotting

Immunohistochemistry

Histology

Microscopy

Job description

Iowa State University is seeking a Research Technician II to support pioneering PFAS-related ovarian function research. You will work within the Department of Animal Science, gaining exposure to animal handling, molecular biology, and data analysis, contributing to projects with potential health implications.

The role emphasizes teamwork, protocol development, and training junior staff, in a collaborative environment that supports career development.