Iowa State University of Science and Technology, commonly known as ISU or Iowa State, is a public land-grant research university located in Ames, Iowa. Founded in 1858, it was one of the first coeducational institutions in the nation and the country's first designated land-grant university under the Morrill Act. A land-grant university is a public institution that receives federal support to provide practical education in agriculture, science, engineering, and related fields, while also conducting research and extension services to benefit the public.
With over 36,000 students, ISU offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and 200 graduate and professional programs across eight colleges, including the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the College of Veterinary Medicine. The university is classified as an R1: Doctoral University with very high research activity, generating over $700 million in research expenditures annually. This strong research emphasis creates abundant opportunities for jobs at Iowa State University of Science and Technology, particularly in faculty, research, and support roles.
ISU's campus spans 1,800 acres in Ames, a vibrant college town of about 66,000 residents, offering a safe, affordable living environment just 30 minutes north of Des Moines. The university's motto, "Science with Practice," reflects its commitment to applied learning and innovation, attracting professionals seeking impactful careers in higher education.
The history of jobs at Iowa State University of Science and Technology mirrors the institution's growth from a small agricultural college to a comprehensive research powerhouse. Established as the Iowa State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, early positions focused on farming techniques and mechanical engineering to support Iowa's agricultural economy. By 1959, it became Iowa State University of Science and Technology, expanding into nuclear physics with the Ames Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy facility.
Today, jobs at ISU have evolved to include cutting-edge roles in bioinformatics, renewable energy, and cybersecurity. Historical milestones like the development of the first digital computer (Atanasoff-Berry Computer in 1942) highlight the university's legacy in tech innovation, influencing current hiring in computing and engineering departments. The university's land-grant status ensures ongoing demand for extension specialists who bridge academia and community needs, such as 4-H educators and agribusiness experts.
Jobs at Iowa State University of Science and Technology span faculty, staff, and research positions. Faculty roles include assistant, associate, and full professors in disciplines like agronomy, chemical engineering, and physics. Research jobs are plentiful at centers such as the Virtual Reality Applications Center (VRAC) and the Bioeconomy Institute. Administrative positions cover student services, HR, and facilities management.
For a full breakdown, explore university job types. Current openings often emphasize interdisciplinary work, such as climate-resilient crops or AI in manufacturing. ISU also hires adjunct professors for part-time teaching and postdoctoral fellows for two-to-three-year research terms. Staff roles in IT, finance, and athletics support the Cyclones' Big 12 Conference teams.
To understand jobs at Iowa State University of Science and Technology fully, here are key terms:
Jobs at Iowa State University of Science and Technology demand rigorous qualifications tailored to the role. For faculty positions, a PhD in the relevant field is required, such as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) for vet med roles or PhD in plant pathology for agriculture.
Research focus areas include biofuels, cybersecurity, and sustainable food systems. Preferred experience encompasses 3+ peer-reviewed publications, federal grant funding (e.g., NIH or DOE), and teaching at the college level. Skills and competencies prized at ISU are:
Admin roles require bachelor's degrees, with master's preferred for senior positions, plus experience in higher ed software.
The application process for jobs at Iowa State University of Science and Technology begins on the official careers site (iastate.edu/jobs). Search postings, create an account, and submit required documents: CV, cover letter, research/teaching statements (2-3 pages each), transcripts, and three references.
Tips for success:
ISU values holistic reviews, so address diversity contributions. Use free resources like our free resume template and cover letter template.
Iowa State University of Science and Technology prioritizes diversity through the President's Initiative for Inclusive Excellence and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Programs include the ISU ADVANCE Partnership, which supports women and underrepresented faculty in STEM with mentoring and leadership training. The Search Committee Toolkit aids equitable hiring, while the Multicultural Student Affairs office fosters inclusive campus culture.
Specific examples: The Iowa State University Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program recruits female talent, and the President's Diversity Awards recognize contributions. In 2023, 25% of new faculty hires were from underrepresented groups, exceeding national averages.
Work-life balance at Iowa State University of Science and Technology is supported by generous policies: 22 vacation days, sick leave, parental leave up to 12 weeks, and flexible work arrangements post-COVID. The Employee Assistance Program offers counseling, and wellness initiatives include free gym access at the State Gymnasium and recreational sports leagues.
Campus life in Ames thrives with over 800 student organizations, the Reiman Gardens botanical display, and the Octagon Center for the Arts. Employees enjoy discounted tickets to Cyclone athletics, farm-to-table dining at the ISU Dairy, and family events like the Iowa State Fair proximity. The low cost of housing (median home $250K) and short commutes enhance quality of life, making ISU appealing for long-term careers.
With competitive salaries (professor average $140K), strong benefits, and a collaborative environment, jobs at ISU offer stability and growth. The university's $2.5B economic impact on Iowa underscores its value. For more opportunities, browse higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. Learn about employer branding secrets or how to become a university lecturer.
View all University Jobs
Post and Connect – the new way of promoting your higher ed jobs
