About this role
Job Title: Assistant Research Scientist – Iowa Institute for Oral Health Research
The College of Dentistry’s, Iowa Institute for Oral Health Research is seeking a motivated and collaborative Assistant Research Scientist to investigate mechanisms of innate immunity using C. elegans and cell culture models. This role offers the opportunity to lead innovative research projects, contribute to high-impact publications and grant proposals, and play a key role in mentoring trainees within a dynamic, team-oriented research environment. Will work closely with the Principal Investigator to design and execute studies that advance our understanding of host–pathogen interactions and therapeutic strategies against infection.
Key Responsibilities:
· Lead and execute research projects focused on innate immune pathways and host–pathogen interactions, using C. elegans and in vitro models.
· Design, perform, and analyze experiments involving molecular biology, genetics, microscopy, and immunological techniques.
· Develop and characterize transgenic worm lines to study immune responses and mechanisms of action of potential therapeutics.
· Analyze and interpret data using appropriate statistical and bioinformatics tools, ensuring data quality and integrity.
· Disseminate research findings through manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and laboratory meetings.
· Contribute to grant development by preparing proposals, progress reports, and supporting documentation for NIH, NSF, and institutional funding.
· Mentor and train laboratory members, including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other trainees, fostering a supportive learning environment.
· Support laboratory operations and collaborations, including protocol development, compliance, and engagement with the broader scientific community.
Assistant Research Scientist – PRJ1
College of Dentistry – Iowa Institute of Oral Health & Research (Iowa City, IA)
Salary: $74,150 to commensurate (Pay Grade: 5A)
P&S Status: Specified Term
Work Location: On-Site
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm
May require work outside normal business hours.
Required Qualifications:
· PhD in molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, or other closely related field.
· 1-year relevant experience in molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, or related field.
· 1st authored peer-review publication in relevant journals.
· Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
· Highly self-motivated and independent while willing to collaborate with others in an interdisciplinary group.
HIGHLY Desirable Qualifications:
· Experience in C. elegans biology.
Desirable Qualifications:
Position and Application Details:
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload a Resume (and mark as “Relevant File”) to the submission, Cover Letter is recommended, and 3 Names of Professional Reference may be requested at a later date.
Position NOT eligible for University Sponsorship of Permanent Residency.
PLEASE NOTE: If your H-1B petition is subject to the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation, please note that the department will NOT cover the $100,000 payment associated with H-1B sponsorship, either at the time of hire or for international travel purposes. We encourage you to explore alternative pathways for work authorization. Our team is available to help identify options that may be suitable for your situation.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. For questions or additional information, please contact [email protected].
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.
About Iowa:
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.
Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.
Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.
Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Other facts
About University of Iowa
WE CARE Core Values
Welcoming: We strive for an environment where every voice is heard, emphasize, regular communication, and seek transparency wherever possible.
Excellence: We strive to achieve excellence in all that we do.
Collaboration: We believe teamwork is the best way to work.
Accountability: We behave ethically, act openly and with integrity in all that we do, taking responsibility for our actions.
Respect: We honor diversity and recognize the worth and dignity of every person.
Equity: We dedicate ourselves to equity and fairness.
Mission
Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.®
University of Iowa Health Care is changing medicine through:
• Pioneering discovery
• Innovative interprofessional education
• Delivery of superb clinical care
• An extraordinary patient experience in a multi-disciplinary, collaborative, team-based environment
University of Iowa Health Care is changing lives by:
• Preventing and curing disease
• Improving health and well-being
Vision
World Class People: Building on our greatest strength.
World Class Medicine: Creating a new standard of excellence in integrated patient care, research, and education.
For Iowa and the World: Making a difference in quality of life and health for generations.
Recognitions/ Awards
In its 2020 rankings of “Best Employer for Diversity," Forbes ranked UI Health Care No. 47 overall among large employers nationwide and No. 10 in its Healthcare & Social category.
What you'll do
- The Assistant Research Scientist will lead and execute research projects focused on innate immune pathways and host-pathogen interactions. They will also mentor laboratory members and contribute to grant development and research dissemination.
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