Ames, Iowa, United States
Onsite
The Center for Crops Utilization Research (CCUR) at Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist II to support applied research focused on industrial fermentation and bioprocessing. This position will design, execute, and manage industrial fermentation research projects, collaborate with industry partners, and contribute to the development and optimization of fermentation processes supporting innovation in bio-based products and food applications.
The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise in industrial fermentation, analytical chemistry, and laboratory operations, along with the ability to independently manage research activities, interpret complex data, and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
What You'll Do
Lead the design, execution, and evaluation of industrial fermentation research projects in collaboration with faculty and industry partners.
Serve as the technical liaison for industry-sponsored projects, providing scientific expertise, interpreting experimental results, and preparing technical reports.
Perform microbiological testing and oversee analytical testing of fermentation products, including sugars, alcohols, organic acids, and related compounds.
Develop, optimize, validate, and troubleshoot analytical methods, including HPLC, while ensuring data quality and laboratory best practices.
Analyze research data, recommend process improvements, and support decision-making through high-quality scientific analysis.
Collaborate with engineering and multidisciplinary research teams to support downstream processing and food processing projects.
Provide technical guidance and training to student employees and help maintain a safe, efficient laboratory environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced degree in Microbiology, Food Science, Biochemistry, or related field.
Experience independently designing and conducting industrial fermentation or bioprocessing research.
Experience operating and troubleshooting bench-scale or pilot-scale bioreactors or fermentation systems.
Experience developing, validating, and troubleshooting HPLC analytical methods.
Experience performing microbiological techniques and analyzing fermentation products.
Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on applied or industry-sponsored research projects.
Experience preparing technical reports, publications, or presentations for scientific or industry audiences.
Why Join CCUR?
This position offers an excellent opportunity to expand your expertise in industrial fermentation, analytical methods, and applied research while collaborating with leading faculty and industry partners. You'll strengthen your technical, scientific communication, and project management skills while contributing to research that advances innovative bio-based and food technologies.
The Center for Crops Utilization Research is a nationally recognized interdisciplinary research center dedicated to developing innovative uses for agricultural crops through partnerships with industry, government, and academia. As part of Iowa State University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, you'll work alongside experts in fermentation, food science, bioprocessing, and agricultural innovation while contributing to research that creates sustainable solutions and supports Iowa's bioeconomy.
This is a term position with opportunity for renewal.
This position is primarily based in the Food Science Building, with approximately one-third of work time spent at the BioCentury Research Farm (BCRF).
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
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
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
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, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
Want to know if this job is worth applying to?