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Academic Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The University Of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA

$18.75 - $26/hr

... academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees ... Research Assistant * Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific * Schedule: Full-time * Work ...

University of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees ...

University of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees ...

Varsity Tutors

Claude Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with AI assistant literacy needs and common challenges such as crafting precise ... for academic research, writing, and professional productivity. * Effective Teaching Methods:

Varsity Tutors

Claude Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Familiar with AI assistant literacy needs and common challenges such as crafting precise ... for academic research, writing, and professional productivity. * Effective Teaching Methods:

SSAB

Research Engineer

Montpelier, IA · On-site

... models to assist in controlling key processes. * Perform inclusion analyses using optical ... At least two years of experience in the steel industry or academic work focused on steelmaking ...

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How much do academic research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for academic research assistant in Iowa is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic research assistant?

Academic Research Assistants are individuals, often undergraduate or graduate students, who support faculty or lead researchers in conducting scholarly studies. Their duties can include gathering and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and assisting in the organization of research materials. They play a crucial role in advancing academic projects and may also help with administrative tasks related to research. This position provides valuable experience for those interested in pursuing advanced studies or a career in research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic research assistant?

Academic Research Assistants need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid academic background in their research field, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), academic databases, and proper citation methods is typically required. Excellent organizational abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work independently or as part of a team help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are essential for producing high-quality research, maintaining data integrity, and supporting successful project outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by academic research assistants, and how can they be managed?

Academic Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks with tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and ensuring accuracy in data collection and analysis. Effective time management, clear communication with supervising faculty, and maintaining organized records can help manage these challenges. Building collaborative relationships within the research team also supports knowledge sharing and problem-solving, making it easier to navigate complex research projects.

What is the difference between Academic Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAcademic Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labsHospitals, research labs, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizationsMedical, biotech, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician

The main difference between an Academic Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their educational requirements and work focus. Academic Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and assist with research projects in academic settings. Laboratory Technicians often have an associate's degree or certification and focus on conducting routine lab tests and procedures. Both roles support scientific research but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Is it hard to get a job as an academic research assistant?

Securing an academic research assistant position can be competitive and often requires relevant education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, along with research skills and familiarity with data analysis tools. Candidates with strong academic records, research experience, and good communication skills tend to have better chances of obtaining these roles.

What do academic research assistants do?

Academic research assistants support faculty and researchers by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with experiments or projects. They often use tools like statistical software and may be involved in preparing reports or presentations. The role typically requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with some positions requiring specific coursework or research experience.

What qualifications do I need to be an academic research assistant?

To become an academic research assistant, candidates typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or humanities. Strong research skills, familiarity with data analysis tools, and good communication abilities are also important; some positions may require prior research experience or specific technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Research jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Academic Research jobs in Iowa are:

Academic Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Research Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,291 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Research Assistant

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

$18.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

467th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Summary

The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant to further the understanding of neurodegenerative dementia, especially our studies evaluating different forms of dementia- such as Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer's disease. This position is mainly responsible for helping collect and analyze pathology in human autopsy subjects, but some animal model work may be possible. Based on research background and interest, additional laboratory tasks may be added as secondary responsibilities (e.g., laboratory maintenance, supply/equipment ordering, compliance, animal experiments, etc.).


Position Responsibilities

  • Collect, deliver and process samples from autopsy subjects. 
  • Scan, organize, and evaluate pathology slides
  • Process tissue samples
  • Perform Golgi staining, immunofluorescence, and other pathological techniques.
  • Trace neurons, quantifying synapses, and count cells using stereology.
  • Basic analysis of data, including quality checks.
  • Write research progress reports for each experiment or data collection; assist in data presentation and preparation of papers.
  • Perform library research on specified topics; prepare bibliographies and abstracts.
  • Procure supplies and equipment; maintain stocks of supplies as needed.
  • Instruct students and others in routine research techniques.
  • Promote and maintain lab organization and cleaning in both the animal and human laboratory settings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
     

Please note: This is a specified term position that will last 12 months. An extension may be reviewed after the initial 12 months but is not guaranteed.

The University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center-recognized as one of the best hospitals in the United States-is Iowa's only comprehensive academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe, quality health care and excellent service for our patients. Simply stated, our mission is: Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.

Education Requirements

  • A bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Neuroscience or Neuroscience-related major (i.e., Biochemistry, Molecular Biology) preferred.

Experience Requirements

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and impeccable attention to detail
  • Professional demeanor and highest ethical standards
     

Desired Qualifications

  • Background in pathology research
  • Demonstrable experience supervising or training others in a laboratory setting.
  • Programming experience using MATLab or equivalent.
     

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.

Please attach a resume and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) as part of the application process. 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. 

Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For additional questions, please contact Lilli Wulff at lilwulff@uiowa.edu or 319-356-4417.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Research Assistant
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 3A
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Lilli Wulff
  • Contact Email: lilwulff@uiowa.edu

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