Research Scientist II

Position Title:

Research Scientist II

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Required

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience

The Midwest Grape and Wine Industry Institute (MGWII) at Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist II to support applied research and analytical testing activities focused on food and beverage microbiology. This position will play a key role in designing and conducting microbiology experiments and challenge studies for food and beverage products, while contributing to laboratory operations and interdisciplinary projects across the institute.

The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, staff, students, and industry clients to support testing services, laboratory operations, and applied research and outreach efforts.

• Design and conduct food microbiology experiments, including challenge, shelf life, and shelf stability studies
• Develop laboratory procedures, maintain records, collect and analyze data, and prepare reports
• Collaborate with clients, faculty, and staff to support analytical testing and research activities
• Perform fee-for-service testing for food and beverage products, including wine, beer, and cider
• Maintain laboratory equipment, manage supplies, and support daily laboratory operations
• Assist with research projects, sample preparation, winery and brewing activities, and outreach events
• Support undergraduate students and contribute to collaborative research and service projects

• Master’s degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Biology, or closely related field
• Experience conducting microbiology or food science laboratory experiments
• Experience with food safety, challenge studies, shelf‑life studies, or related analytical testing
• Experience developing laboratory procedures, maintaining records, and managing data
• Experience working collaboratively with clients, researchers, or students
• The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, effective problem‑solving skills, and an interest in applied research supporting the food and beverage industries

• 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

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non‑discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011.

All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check.