Senior Research Associate
Job in
Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, 50381, USA
Listed on 2026-08-06
Listing for:
Actalent
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-08-06
Job specializations:
-
Research/Development
Research Assistant/Associate, Research Scientist, Clinical Research, Biomedical Science
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Senior Research Associate
Job Description
The Senior Research Associate performs laboratory experiments within well-defined guidelines, operates analytical equipment, and supports research projects under direct supervision. This role contributes to the development, documentation, and presentation of scientific data, and plays a key part in internal research initiatives within a modern, state-of-the-art facility.
Responsibilities
+ Perform laboratory experiments within well-defined guidelines and under direct supervision, following established procedures and safety standards.
+ Operate laboratory equipment, including instruments used for pipetting, HPLC, and enzyme assays, to support ongoing research projects.
+ Draft standard operating procedures (SOPs), research protocols, and research methods under supervision, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and compliance with internal standards.
+ Perform basic data analysis with supervision, using appropriate analytical tools and methods to interpret experimental results.
+ Collect, interpret, and document research data under supervision, maintaining accurate and organized records in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
+ Prepare research data and analytics in multiple formats, including tables, graphs, and summaries, to support internal reporting and decision-making.
+ Present research data and findings in multiple formats, such as internal reports, presentations, or meetings, to communicate progress and outcomes to the team.
+ Contribute to scientific publications and internal technical documents by providing data, analysis, and technical input.
+ Collaborate effectively with team members in a laboratory environment, supporting shared goals and contributing to a positive and productive team culture.
+ Maintain high attention to detail in all laboratory and documentation activities to ensure data integrity and reliable results.
+ Manage multiple projects and tasks efficiently under supervision, prioritizing work to meet deadlines and project timelines.
Essential Skills
+ Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry or Chemistry with 0-3 years of related experience, or an Associate's degree with 2+ years of related experience.
+ Hands-on experience with pipetting in a laboratory environment.
+
Experience with HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography).
+ Enzyme assay experience.
+ Analytical laboratory skills with strong scientific curiosity and innovative thinking.
+ High attention to detail in experimental work and documentation.
+ Experience using Excel for data entry, analysis, and reporting.
+ Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects efficiently.
+ Reliable, self-motivated, and able to work productively with supervision.
+ Good written and oral communication skills.
+ Ability to interact well with others and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
Additional
Skills & Qualifications
+ Experience drafting SOPs, research protocols, and research methods under supervision.
+ Experience preparing and presenting research data in multiple formats for internal audiences.
+ Interest in contributing to scientific publications and internal technical reports.
+ Strong organizational skills for managing experimental workflows and documentation.
+ Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities in a research setting.
Work Environment
This role is based in a state-of-the-art headquarters facility that supports a global ingredient manufacturing organization focused on improving the quality of life for a large portion of the world's population. The campus includes modern amenities such as a Starbucks, cafeteria, and gym. The position follows a standard Monday through Friday schedule from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (40 hours per week) and is structured as a 6-month contract.
The work takes place in an analytical laboratory environment using equipment such as pipettes, HPLC systems, and assay platforms. Team members work closely with scientists and researchers in a collaborative setting, with an emphasis on safety, precision, and high-quality scientific work. Dress expectations align with working in a professional laboratory setting, including appropriate lab…
Position Requirements
10+ Years
work experience
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