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Data Science Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Data Science Research Assistant information

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How much do data science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for data science research assistant in Iowa is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a data science research assistant do?

A Data Science Research Assistant supports research projects by gathering, cleaning, and analyzing data using statistical and computational techniques. They assist senior researchers with designing experiments, developing models, and interpreting results. Typical tasks include data preprocessing, coding in languages like Python or R, literature reviews, and creating visualizations to summarize findings. Their work helps advance scientific knowledge and inform decision-making based on data-driven insights.

What is the difference between Data Science Research Assistant vs Data Analyst?

AspectData Science Research AssistantData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Data Analysis, Statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or research-focused organizationsBusiness settings, corporate offices, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesCorporations, marketing firms, finance, healthcare
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Data Science Research Assistants typically focus on supporting research projects through data collection, analysis, and modeling in academic or research settings. Data Analysts primarily interpret data to help organizations make business decisions. While both roles require strong analytical skills and knowledge of data tools, the research assistant role emphasizes academic research and experimentation, whereas data analysts focus on business insights and reporting.

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

To thrive as a Data Science Research Assistant, you need a strong background in statistics, machine learning, and programming (often with a degree in computer science, statistics, or related fields). Familiarity with tools such as Python, R, Jupyter Notebooks, and data visualization libraries as well as experience with version control systems like Git is typical, and coursework or certifications in data science can be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills are essential to effectively analyze data, interpret results, and collaborate with research teams. These skills and qualities are critical for producing reliable insights, supporting research objectives, and ensuring the integrity of data-driven projects.

How does a data science research assistant typically collaborate with other team members during a research project?

Data Science Research Assistants frequently work alongside data scientists, research leads, and subject matter experts to support ongoing research. Their responsibilities often include cleaning and preprocessing data, performing exploratory analyses, and implementing models. Regular collaboration occurs through team meetings, code reviews, and sharing findings, ensuring alignment with project goals. Open communication and adaptability are essential, as priorities and datasets can shift based on project needs.
What are popular job titles related to Data Science Research Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Data Science Research Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Data Science Research Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,803 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Research Associate or Research Assistant - Iowa Neuropathology Resource Laboratory

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

458th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Pathology is seeking a Research Assistant or Research Associate to conduct experimental pathology procedures and techniques that are centered on functions in the Iowa Neuropathology Resource Laboratory, a research Core in the Department of Pathology. This position will assist with tasks in the INRL as needed under the direction of the INRL Director and senior staff in the lab. Responsibilities include procurement and processing of donated human brain tissue, for both fresh and fixed cases, fulfilling tissue requests, assisting with tissue processing, communication with mortuary staff as needed, database entry, organization of tissue repository, and general laboratory support in collaboration with other INRL staff members. This position is 100% time.

The department intends to hire for one position from either Research Assistant, or Research Associate, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please indicate in your application materials the position you wish to be considered for on indicate both. 

Duties to include:

         Assists in the execution of research projects and requests for services from the lab.

         Documents projects, procedures and protocols.

         Performs procedures in the fields of pathology.

         Participates in routine laboratory safety and the maintenance of lab equipment.

         Represents the IRNL Core to clientele.

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

Research Assistant Qualifications:

         Requires a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience, anatomy and physiology, health sciences, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

         6+ months of research experience in a wet bench laboratory setting.

         Experience in handling human or animal tissue.

         Experience adding data and inventory to a database.

         Excellent written and interpersonal verbal communication skills are required.

         Experience in consistently following Standard Operating Procedures.

Research Associate Qualifications:

         Requires a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience, anatomy and physiology, health sciences, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

         1-2 years of research experience in a wet bench laboratory setting.

         Experience in handling human or animal tissue.

         Experience adding data and inventory to a database.

         Excellent written and interpersonal verbal communication skills are required.

         Experience in consistently following Standard Operating Procedures.

Desired Qualifications:

         Experience with neuroanatomy, especially human neuroanatomy.

         Previous experience with histology techniques including immunohistochemistry.

         Experience using UIBioshare.

         HIPAA training and experience working with clinical data.

         Consistent attention to detail and accuracy.

         Experience with Office applications, including spreadsheet data using Excel.

         Demonstrated ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

         Proven ability to work in a high project volume work environment.

         Ability to effectively prioritize projects to meet deadlines consistently.

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

Pathology will be filling this position at one of two levels. The Research Assistant salary starts at $43,240, and the Research Associate classification salary starts at $47,380. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. You must indicate in your cover letter the level of classification (you wish to be considered for or indicate both. See required qualifications for additional information.

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 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.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.

For additional questions, please contact Brenda Carey via email at brenda-carey@uiowa.edu.

Applicant Resource Center - 

Need help submitting an application or accepting an offer? Support is available! 

OurApplicant Resource Centeris now open in the Fountain Lobby at the Main Hospital. 

Hours: 

Monday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Tuesday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Friday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Or by appointment 

ContactTAHealthCareSupport@healthcare.uiowa.eduto schedule an appointment or just stop by.  

Visit the website for more information: Application Resource Center | University of Iowa Health Care 

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Research Associate
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 4A
  • Starting Salary Minimum: 47,380
  • Starting Salary Maximum: to Commensurate
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Brenda Carey
  • Contact Email: brenda-carey@uiowa.edu

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