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$48.1K

$123.8K

$165.6K

How much do academic research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic research scientist in Indiana is $123,814.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,300.00 and $164,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic research scientist?

Academic Research Scientists are professionals who conduct scientific studies and experiments in university or research institution settings. Their work often includes designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, publishing results in scientific journals, and collaborating with other researchers. They may also mentor students, apply for research grants, and present findings at conferences. The goal of an Academic Research Scientist is to advance knowledge in their field and contribute to scientific understanding.

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

To thrive as an Academic Research Scientist, you need a strong background in scientific methodology, data analysis, and subject-specific expertise, often demonstrated by a PhD or equivalent advanced degree. Proficiency in statistical software, laboratory equipment, and research management systems is typically expected. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication are vital soft skills for publishing findings and collaborating with peers. These skills are essential for producing rigorous research, advancing scientific knowledge, and securing funding in a competitive academic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by academic research scientists when working on collaborative projects?

Academic research scientists often work on multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as coordinating schedules, aligning research goals, and managing communication across different areas of expertise. Balancing individual research interests with the broader objectives of a collaborative project requires strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Additionally, navigating differing expectations regarding authorship and credit is a frequent challenge, making transparency and clear agreements essential for successful teamwork.

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

AspectAcademic Research ScientistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in a relevant fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or research institutionsLaboratories within hospitals, industry, or academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, private research firmsHospitals, biotech companies, manufacturing labs

Academic Research Scientists typically hold advanced degrees and lead research projects, focusing on hypothesis development and data analysis. Laboratory Technicians usually have a technical diploma or bachelor's degree, supporting experiments and maintaining lab equipment. Both roles are essential in research settings but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work scope.

Are research scientists paid well?

Research scientists' salaries vary depending on the industry, experience, and location, but they generally earn competitive wages compared to other scientific roles. In academia, salaries tend to be lower than in private industry, where specialized skills and advanced degrees can lead to higher compensation. Overall, research scientists with advanced degrees and specialized expertise often have strong earning potential.

Do I need a PhD to be an academic research scientist?

While many academic research scientists hold a PhD, it is not always required; some positions may accept a master's degree or equivalent experience, especially in applied or industry-focused roles. However, a PhD is often preferred for research-intensive positions and for advancing in academia or specialized research fields.

What are popular job titles related to Academic Research Scientist jobs in Indiana?

For Academic Research Scientist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Academic Research Scientist jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Academic Research Scientist jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Academic Research Scientist jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Academic Research Scientist job openings:

Academic Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Research Scientist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,814 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Assistant Research Professor of Pediatrics

Indiana University Academic Positions

Kokomo, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Title Assistant Research Professor of Pediatrics Specific Title Appointment Type Scientist Track Faculty Department IUSM - Pediatrics Campus IU School of Medicine Indianapolis Position Summary
Dr. Matthew Aalsma, Vice Chair of Health Services Research and Director of the Adolescent Behavioral Health Research Program in the Department of Pediatrics at Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) is currently seeking applications from highly motivated, team-oriented candidates for a research scientist with expertise in statistics. The research scientist will be embedded within a research lab focused on improving behavioral health outcomes among vulnerable individuals including children, youth and individuals involved in criminal justice systems.
 
The research scientist will serve as a key liaison between investigators and senior statisticians, supporting investigatorinitiated research across the project lifecycle. This role helps to translate complex, disciplinespecific research questions into clearly defined analytic problems, ensuring that study aims, hypotheses, and data structures are appropriately aligned with proposed statistical methods.
 
The research scientist will work closely with investigators and senior statisticians to facilitate effective communication around analytic strategy, data quality, and methodological strengths and limitations. Responsibilities include reviewing analysis datasets for adherence analytic assumptions and troubleshooting data-related issues that could impact interpretation of findings. The role also involves meticulously documenting investigator decisions and changes to the analytic plan over time, promoting rigor, efficiency, and reproducibility in research outcomes. The research scientist will also work closely with senior statisticians to draft methods and results sections of scholarly manuscripts. 
 
Indiana University is a multi-campus public research institution, and a world leader in professional, medical, and technological education with an annual operating budget of $2.1 billion. IUSM is the largest medical school in the United States with a student body that includes over 43% women and 36% ethnic minorities. IUSM scientists and physicians were awarded over $217million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2021, setting a school record for research funding for the sixth straight year. Additionally, IUSM provides an interdisciplinary and interactive scientific environment with many multidisciplinary centers and state-of-the-art core facilities.
Indianapolis is a diverse, centrally-located city that lies within 3 driving hours of other major population centers such as Chicago, Cincinnati, and Louisville. It is 14th largest city in the United States and is growing and thriving economically thanks to a strong corporate base anchored by the life sciences. Indiana is home to one of the largest concentrations of health sciences companies in the nation, which contribute over $44 billion annually to the local economy. Our dynamic downtown is a bustling commercial center, entertainment destination and residential neighborhood. The growing residential base is supported by rich amenities and quality of life - the city possesses a variety of professional sports, arts venues and outdoor recreation areas. For additional information on life in Indy, visit http://medicine.iupui.edu/AboutIndy/.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
IUSM is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana.
Basic Qualifications
Doctorate or terminal degree required. 
Department Contact for Questions
Matthew Aalsma, PhD
Professor of Psychology and Pediatrics
Director, Adolescent Behavioral Health Research Program
HITS Building | Suite 2000
410 West 10th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
maalsma@iu.edu
Additional Qualifications
PhD in any field is accepted.
Special Instructions Priority Application Review Deadline Expected Start Date Posting Number IUSM-02423-2026

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