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Laboratory Research Associate Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Research Associate information

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$10

$26

$50

How much do laboratory research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research associate in Indiana is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $32.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Research Associate, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, laboratory techniques, and typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard lab equipment is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart. These abilities ensure accurate data collection, reliable experiment execution, and smooth collaboration within research teams.

What is a Laboratory Research Associate?

A Laboratory Research Associate is a professional who assists in conducting scientific experiments and research in a laboratory setting. Their responsibilities typically include preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining detailed records of experiments. They work under the supervision of senior scientists or researchers and play a crucial role in supporting research projects across fields like biology, chemistry, medicine, or environmental science. This position requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and safety protocols.

What are some common challenges Laboratory Research Associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Research Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which can present challenges in time management and maintaining accuracy. Coordinating schedules for equipment usage, tracking sample progress, and adhering to strict protocols require strong organizational skills. Effective communication with team members and careful documentation help mitigate errors and ensure experiments run smoothly. Learning to prioritize tasks and quickly adapt to changes in project priorities is essential for success in this role.

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

AspectLaboratory Research AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant science fieldAssociate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, often involved in experiments and data analysisLaboratory settings focused on sample preparation and testing
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaceuticalsHospitals, clinical labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles, data analysis, and project supportCompared for technical support, sample handling, and testing tasks

The Laboratory Research Associate typically holds a higher degree and is involved in experimental design, data analysis, and research projects. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians focus on sample processing, testing, and supporting laboratory operations. Both roles are essential in scientific settings but differ mainly in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Research jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Laboratory Research jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Indiana? For Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Laboratory Research Associate jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Laboratory Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Associate job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 20% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,120 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Other

Posted 25 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