1

Assistant Research Associate Jobs in Grimes, IA (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician

Des Moines, IA

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

Supports and assist scientific team with various R&D projects. * Routine laboratory testing and ... Associate's Degree with 0-2 years of relevant experience * Must be highly motivated, reliable, and ...

Research Technician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

Supports and assist scientific team with various R&D projects. * Routine laboratory testing and ... Associate's Degree with 0-2 years of relevant experience * Must be highly motivated, reliable, and ...

Research Technician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $24.25/hr

Supports and assist scientific team with various R&D projects. * Routine laboratory testing and ... Associate's Degree with 0-2 years of relevant experience * Must be highly motivated, reliable, and ...

Lab Assistant The Lab Assistant supports plant research by collecting samples from soybean and ... Associate's Degree or higher, preferably in a science-related field, is preferred. * Prior ...

New

Lab Assistant The Lab Assistant supports plant research by collecting samples from soybean and ... Associate's Degree or higher, preferably in a science-related field, is preferred. * Prior ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Assistant Research Associate information

What is an assistant research associate?

Assistant Research Associates are entry- to mid-level professionals who support research activities in academic, scientific, or corporate settings. They assist in designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Their role is crucial in ensuring that research projects run smoothly and adhere to protocols. Assistant Research Associates often work under the supervision of senior researchers or principal investigators, and their work contributes to advancements in their field.

What are the typical responsibilities of an assistant research associate?

As an Assistant Research Associate, you will often support senior researchers by conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing reports or presentations. You may be responsible for maintaining research databases, assisting with laboratory or field work, and ensuring compliance with project protocols. Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with other team members to coordinate tasks and troubleshoot challenges, while also having opportunities to contribute your own ideas and learn from more experienced colleagues.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Research Associate, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and compliance protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and organization skills help you collaborate and accurately report findings. These competencies are essential for supporting research goals, ensuring data integrity, and contributing to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Assistant Research Associate vs Research Assistant?

AspectAssistant Research AssociateResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, research experienceTypically Bachelor's degree, entry-level
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industryResearch labs, academic settings, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporationsUniversities, government agencies, labs
Common Search & ComparisonHigher level responsibilities, independent tasksSupportive role, data collection, basic analysis

The Assistant Research Associate typically holds more advanced education and research experience, performing more independent tasks. Research Assistants usually support research activities with less experience, focusing on data collection and basic analysis. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Assistant Research Associate often has greater responsibilities and qualifications.

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

Securing an assistant research associate position typically requires a relevant master's or doctoral degree, research experience, and strong analytical skills. Competition can be moderate to high depending on the field and institution, and candidates often need to demonstrate proficiency with research tools and methodologies. Building a solid academic record and gaining research experience can improve chances of employment.

What qualifications do I need to be an Assistant Research Associate?

To become an Assistant Research Associate, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Some positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with research experience, strong analytical skills, and proficiency with research tools or software. Relevant certifications or laboratory skills can also be advantageous.

What cities near Grimes, IA are hiring for Assistant Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Grimes, IA with the most Assistant Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Research Associate job openings in Grimes, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Postdoc Research Associate in Experimental Thermal/Fluids Sciences

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:Postdoc Research Associate in Experimental Thermal/Fluids SciencesAppointment Type:Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Department of Aerospace Engineering seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to contribute to research activities within the Experimental Thermal/Fluids Sciences Laboratory. The successful candidate will support cutting-edge research and assist in the day-to-day operation of the laboratory.

This postdoctoral appointment will work in the following areas:

  • Conduct fundamental research in the areas of:

    • Plasma thermodynamics
    • Multiphase flow dynamics
    • Machine learning applications for multiphase flow modeling and prediction
  • Assist the laboratory director with daily laboratory operations, including the supervision and mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students.

  • Prepare technical reports and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at national and international conferences.

  • Contribute to the development of competitive research proposals and other grant-related activities in collaboration with the laboratory director.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

  • PhD or doctoral degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Documented background in experimental thermal-fluids sciences.
  • Research experience in one or more of the following areas: plasma thermodynamics, fluid dynamics and heat transfer, multiphase flows, or machine learning-based multiphase flow dynamics and control.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, as demonstrated through scholarly publications and the cover letter.

Department/Program & College Description:

Iowa State has a long history of educational and research excellence in aerospace engineering. This includes training students for engineering careers in aviation starting as early as 1928, housing one of five NASA centers of excellence in Computational Fluid Dynamics in the 1970's, building the world's first Tornado and Downburst simulator, and housing the only university icing research wind tunnel in the United States.

Over the years, our graduates have distinguished themselves in the aerospace profession. Aerospace Engineering students at Iowa State take a rigorous curriculum in core aerospace engineering sciences and design, and have numerous opportunities to pursue hands-on work both inside and outside the department.

Department Unit/Website:
Department of Aerospace Engineering - College of Engineering, Iowa State University

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
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

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.

Proposed Start Date:September 1, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:July 17, 2026Posting Close Date:August 27, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19619

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.


What Iowa State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom