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Biology Research Associate Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Basic Qualifications Requires Master's degree in Biology, Chemistry, or closely related field plus 2 years' experience as a Research Associate, Science Associate, Research Engineer , or related role.

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Biology Research Associate information

See Indiana salary details

$15

$30

$44

How much do biology research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for biology research associate in Indiana is $30.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.95 and $35.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biology Research Associate?

To thrive as a Biology Research Associate, you need a solid background in biological sciences, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, molecular biology tools, and software for statistical analysis such as R or GraphPad Prism is essential. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative research environments. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, meaningful scientific contributions, and effective teamwork in advancing research objectives.

What does a Biology Research Associate do?

A Biology Research Associate assists in scientific research projects in the field of biology by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work under the supervision of senior scientists and contribute to the planning and execution of research studies. Their responsibilities may also include preparing reports, keeping detailed records, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. This role is vital for advancing scientific knowledge and supporting breakthroughs in areas such as genetics, microbiology, and environmental science.

What is the difference between Biology Research Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiology Research AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology or related field; research experienceAssociate's degree or certification; technical training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, biotech companiesClinical, industrial, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles, project involvementCompared for technical support, lab procedures

The main difference between a Biology Research Associate and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Research Associates typically hold higher degrees and are involved in designing experiments and analyzing data, whereas Laboratory Technicians focus on routine lab tasks and technical support. Both roles are essential in research and lab settings, but they differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are some common challenges a Biology Research Associate might face when working on collaborative projects?

Biology Research Associates often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as communicating complex scientific concepts to colleagues from different backgrounds or aligning research priorities. Balancing independent work with group deadlines and adapting to shifting project scopes are also common hurdles. However, effective communication, organization, and flexibility can help overcome these challenges and contribute to successful research outcomes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Biology Research jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Biology Research jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Biology Research Associate jobs in Indiana? For Biology Research Associate jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Biology Research Associate jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Biology Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Biology Research Associate job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,407 per year, or $31 per hour.

Research Associate, Biology

Indiana University Academic Positions

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Title Research Associate, Biology Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Bloomington Biology Location Bloomington Position Summary
The Department of Biology is a large, unified department with strong undergraduate degrees, nationally-ranked graduate programs, and world-class research spanning the breadth of biological questions and experimental systems - from ecosystems to microbiology and developmental biology, from evolution to cell biology, from molecular biology to systems biology, bioinformatics, and genomics. It is always an exciting time for Biology - enormous advances in global genome analysis coupled with unprecedented developments in interdisciplinary research have made the 21st century the Century of Biology. For more information about the department, you can find it here: About: Department of Biology: Indiana University Bloomington.

The Fuqua Lab in the Department of Biology at Indiana University, Bloomington is seeking a Research Associate. Our lab in the Microbiology section is focused on complex bacterial behaviors, including biofilm formation and host interactions, using the plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens as a model. The overarching goal for this position is to make timely progress on our NIH grant entitled "Mechanisms of pterin-dependent regulation in proteobacterial systems" (Grant number R01 GM160733) which explores a new regulatory mechanism that controls biofilm formation we have discovered based on excreted metabolites called pterins (for details see Greenwich et al. 2024; PNAS, doi:10.1073/pnas.2319903121). The Fuqua lab research team is currently comprised of graduate students, a senior research scientist, and undergraduates. All members of our team contribute to the projects of other team members -this may include assistance with a research protocol, feedback on presentations, edits on manuscripts, and so on. The lab philosophy is that a collaborative and supportive research environment benefits everyone involved. We are seeking an individual to join this team, contribute to the lab in general, and further the goals of the NIH grant.
Basic Qualifications
Core job duties include: (1) Learning, conducting and teaching other lab members our key research protocols. In the lab, this will include: DNA purification, Molecular Cloning, Gel Electrophoresis, DNA Sequencing, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Bacterial Transformation, Microbiological Cultivation, SDS-PAGE, Western Blotting. These and other experimental approaches will be applied as needed to the experimental plan for the pterin project. (2) Management of pterin grant meetings and material exchanges between collaborating laboratories. (3) Laboratory management and ordering. (4) Participation in general laboratory task rotations (5) Written summaries of research (for annual grant reporting and for manuscript preparation), and research presentations (lab meetings, grant meetings, and conferences).
Required skills

Effective time management
Accurate and organized record keeping
Ability to work in a team
Receptivity to training and new techniques
Proficiency in written and oral communication
Problem solving and pro-active approach to preventing problems
Dependability and punctuality
Flexibility for research tasks and prioritization of experiments.
Preferred skills

Molecular biology experience
DNA sequence analysis
Aseptic technique and microbiology
Familiarity with data analysis and statistics
Working conditions: Laboratory research with periods of intense focus and technical clarity. Organization, planning and record keeping for experiments are crucial and this work requires careful and deliberate effort. Effective communication between lab members is critical.
Department Contact for Questions
To apply: Please submit (1) a cover letter describing your interests and background, why you are interested in the position, and the date you are able to start, (2) a CV or resume, (3) names and contact information for two references. This can be submitted to the following link: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33480. For questions about the position, contact Clay Fuqua (cfuqua@iu.edu).
Timing and compensation: Applicant review will begin on June 1, 2026. The initial appointment is for one year, with reappointment contingent on performance and continued funding. Salary will be commensurate with experience and full benefits are included. Best consideration date is 6/16/26 and expected start date is 7/1/26.
Additional Qualifications Salary and Rank Special Instructions For Best Consideration Date 06/16/2026 Expected Start Date 07/01/2026 Posting Number IU-101580-2026