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Laboratory Research Assistant information

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$19

$27

How much do laboratory research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research assistant in Iowa is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laboratory research assistant do?

A Laboratory Research Assistant supports scientific research by conducting experiments, preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and recording data. They work closely with scientists and researchers to ensure accurate and reliable results. Their duties often include following strict safety protocols, managing inventories of chemicals and supplies, and assisting in the analysis and interpretation of data. This role is essential for keeping research projects organized and progressing efficiently.

What are some common challenges laboratory research assistants face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Research Assistants often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time-management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and maintaining equipment can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or require precise timing. It’s important to develop effective routines, communicate proactively with the research team, and use digital tools or lab notebooks to track progress. Staying adaptable and seeking guidance from senior staff can also help manage competing priorities efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Research Assistant, you need a solid background in biology or chemistry, strong laboratory techniques, and at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software such as Excel or SPSS, and sometimes certifications in lab safety or Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication skills help candidates excel in collaborative research environments. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and smooth project execution, all of which are critical to successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Laboratory Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, pharmaceutical companiesClinical labs, research facilities, hospitals
Job FocusAssisting with experiments, data collection, literature reviewPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, sample processing

Both roles support scientific research but differ mainly in responsibilities and focus. Laboratory Research Assistants typically assist with experimental design and data analysis, while Laboratory Technicians focus on conducting tests and maintaining lab equipment. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a laboratory research assistant?

To become a laboratory research assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and experience through internships or research projects can improve job prospects; some positions may also require certifications or training in safety protocols. Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

What qualifications do I need to be a laboratory research assistant?

Laboratory research assistants typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures, and strong organizational abilities; some roles may also require certifications in safety or specific techniques.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

Laboratory Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,555 per year, or $19 per hour.

Research Associate or Research Assistant - Iowa Neuropathology Resource Laboratory

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

463rd of 622 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about The University Of Iowaexternal

$47K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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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