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Communications Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

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

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

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

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

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

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Communications Research Assistant information

What does a communications research assistant do?

A Communications Research Assistant supports research projects related to media, public relations, or organizational communication. Their tasks typically include gathering and analyzing data, preparing reports, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with surveys or interviews. They help ensure that research findings are accurate and contribute to the development of communication strategies or academic studies. This role often requires strong analytical, writing, and organizational skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communications research assistant?

To thrive as a Communications Research Assistant, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a relevant degree in communications, media studies, or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis tools (such as SPSS or Excel), survey platforms, and academic databases is typically required. Attention to detail, effective written and verbal communication, and strong organizational skills make candidates stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, insightful analysis, and clear reporting, all of which are critical to supporting successful communications projects and strategies.

How does a communications research assistant typically collaborate with other team members and departments?

As a Communications Research Assistant, you will frequently work alongside communications specialists, marketing teams, and sometimes external stakeholders to gather and analyze data. You may assist senior researchers with literature reviews, data collection, and summarizing findings for reports or presentations. Regular collaboration ensures that research insights are accurately integrated into campaigns and organizational strategies, and you’ll often participate in team meetings to discuss progress and share updates. Clear communication and adaptability are essential, as you’ll need to coordinate with various departments to meet project goals and deadlines.

What is the difference between Communications Research Assistant vs Communications Coordinator?

AspectCommunications Research AssistantCommunications Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or related fieldBachelor's degree; experience in communications preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, data analysis, report preparationMedia campaigns, content creation, stakeholder communication
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research firms, media outletsCorporations, nonprofits, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Communications Research Assistants focus on data collection, analysis, and supporting research projects, while Communications Coordinators handle the implementation of communication strategies, media relations, and content management. Both roles require strong communication skills and related credentials, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA • On-site


The University Of Iowa
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

466th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers


$18.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


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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