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Assistant Research Scientist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

$91K - $116K/yr

Work with R&D and data science teams to perform exploration data analysis, identifying trends and ... data science and prognostics teams as well as other stakeholders. * Assist with other project ...

Machine Learning R&D Co-Op

Marshalltown, IA

$91K - $116K/yr

Work with R&D and data science teams to perform exploration data analysis, identifying trends and ... data science and prognostics teams as well as other stakeholders. * Assist with other project ...

Machine Learning R&D Co-Op

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$91K - $116K/yr

Work with R&D and data science teams to perform exploration data analysis, identifying trends and ... data science and prognostics teams as well as other stakeholders. * Assist with other project ...

Machine Learning R&D Co-Op

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$91K - $116K/yr

Work with R&D and data science teams to perform exploration data analysis, identifying trends and ... data science and prognostics teams as well as other stakeholders. * Assist with other project ...

Machine Learning R&D Co-Op

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$91K - $116K/yr

Work with R&D and data science teams to perform exploration data analysis, identifying trends and ... data science and prognostics teams as well as other stakeholders. * Assist with other project ...

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$52 - $76/hr

In this role, you will assist with assay preparation, experimental execution, data-quality checks, and improvements to transient screening workflows. You will work with research scientists, technical ...

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Assistant Research Scientist information

See Iowa salary details

$18

$36

$60

How much do assistant research scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant research scientist in Iowa is $36.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.13 and $56.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant research scientist?

Assistant Research Scientists are early-career researchers who work under the supervision of senior scientists to conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and contribute to scientific studies. They typically assist in designing research methods, writing reports or papers, and maintaining laboratory equipment. This position is often held by individuals with a master's or doctoral degree who are gaining experience before advancing to more independent research roles. Assistant Research Scientists play a vital role in supporting ongoing research projects and ensuring the integrity of scientific work.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Research Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree such as a master's or PhD in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (like SPSS or R), and compliance with research protocols or certifications in lab safety are typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with research teams and presenting findings. These skills ensure accurate data collection, rigorous analysis, and productive teamwork, all crucial for advancing scientific projects.

What are some common challenges assistant research scientists face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Assistant Research Scientists often juggle several research projects at once, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Balancing experimental work, data analysis, and documentation across different studies requires strong organizational skills and the ability to adapt quickly to shifting project needs or deadlines. Collaborating with various team members and principal investigators also means effective communication is key to ensuring research goals are met and resources are shared efficiently. Many find that regularly updating project timelines and clarifying expectations with supervisors helps them stay on track.

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

AspectAssistant Research ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in a relevant field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsLaboratories, research institutions, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, biotech companiesUniversities, private industry, government research labs

Assistant Research Scientists typically hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree and assist in research projects under supervision. Research Scientists usually have a Master's or Ph.D. and lead research efforts independently. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in experience level and responsibilities.

How much do assistant research scientists make in the US?

Assistant research scientists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often with opportunities for research funding and professional development.

How to become an assistant research scientist?

To become an assistant research scientist, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering, with many roles preferring a master's degree or higher. Gaining research experience through internships, laboratory work, or assistant positions is important, along with developing skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and scientific communication. Some positions may require familiarity with specific tools or software, and a strong understanding of the research environment is beneficial.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Research Scientist jobs in Iowa?

For Assistant Research Scientist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Assistant Research Scientist jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Research Scientist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Research Scientist jobs in IA?

For Assistant Research Scientist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Research Scientist 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 $76,225 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Asst Research Scientist/Engin - Li Lab

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$56K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 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

464th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Pathology is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist to investigate the mechanisms of how A-FABP and E-FABP regulate cell metabolism and intracellular signaling pathways in cells from various types of disease models like obesity, cancer and psoriasis. Tasks include the design and performance assigned research project and obtain high-quality data in each individual study. Tasks also include management of laboratory protocols, training and collaboration of laboratory personnel, including students, post-doctoral fellows and technicians. This position is 100% time.

Duties to include:

        Cell culture for cell lines, primary immune cells like BMDC, BMDM, establishing cell lines of stable gene expression or knockout using CRISPR technique;

        Preparation of single cell suspension from tissues.

        Highly skilled on real-time PCR, western blotting, RNAi;

        Perform antibody generation, isolation and purification;

        Perform ELISA from serum and supernatant;

        Perform Immunofluorescence staining using cells and tissues;

        Maintenance of mouse colonies and genotyping with assistant of technician;

        Prepare, perform and analyze samples using multi-color flow cytometry;

        Troubleshoots with issues for experimental procedures and updates as needed.

For a full job description, please send an e-mail to the contact listed below.

The Department of Pathology is part of UI Health Care, a comprehensive health sciences center that serves Iowa and the region, as well as patients referred from the United States and overseas. The Clinical Laboratories are well recognized for providing outstanding and comprehensive care to the patients we serve. The breadth and depth of services provided are amongst the best in the country. The educational programs that the department participates in includes medical students, clinical laboratory scientists as well as biomedical scientists. To learn more: https://pathology.medicine.uiowa.edu/about-us

Required Qualifications:

        Ph.D. in Immunology

        At least 1 year of postdoctoral experience in Immunology or cancer-related field.

        Demonstration of strong ability to independently design, optimize and perform experiments, establishing experimental protocols to solve scientific questions.

        Evidence with a record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.  

        Experience of establishing a national presence with talks, abstract presentations and/or participation at professional meetings.

        Excellent communication skills and integrating positive effort to teamwork.

Desirable Qualifications:

        At least 3 years of postdoctoral experience in Immunology or cancer-related field.

        Prior experience with developing mouse models on high fat diet/tumor implantation, and compliance with IACUC regulations is highly desired.

        Highly skilled in multi-color Flow cytometry to identify immune cells (T cell, macrophages) is highly desired.

        Standard molecular biological and immunological techniques is highly desired.

Position and Application details:

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission:

        Resume

        Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended.

Successful candidates 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 Brenda Carey via email at brenda-carey@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Asst Research Scientist/Engin
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 5
  • Starting Salary Minimum: $56,697
  • Starting Salary Maximum: Commensurate
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Brenda Carey
  • Contact Email: brenda-carey@uiowa.edu

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