1

Laboratory Researcher Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Sets up equipment and instrumentation required for tests, research, or process control following Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures. Cleans and makes minor repairs on laboratory ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Laboratory Researcher information

See Indiana salary details

$28.5K

$107.6K

$156.5K

How much do laboratory researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory researcher in Indiana is $107,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,800.00 and $146,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory researcher?

To thrive as a Laboratory Researcher, you need a solid background in scientific methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and software for data collection and analysis—such as ELN systems or statistical programs—is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set outstanding researchers apart. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety standards, and drive meaningful scientific discoveries.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory researchers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Laboratory researchers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting experimental protocols, managing time-sensitive tasks, and ensuring accuracy in data collection. Balancing multiple projects and adapting to unexpected results can be demanding, but effective organization and open communication with colleagues help address these issues. Collaborating with team members and seeking feedback from supervisors can also provide valuable support when refining experimental methods or interpreting data.

What is the difference between Laboratory Researcher vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory ResearcherLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in science or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, pharmaceutical companiesClinical labs, industrial labs, hospitals
Job FocusDesigning experiments, analyzing data, developing new methodsPerforming routine tests, maintaining equipment, preparing samples
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech firms, universitiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants

The main difference between a Laboratory Researcher and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Laboratory Researchers focus on designing experiments and analyzing data, often requiring higher education. Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in scientific and medical labs, but they differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What degree do you need to work in a research laboratory?

Laboratory researchers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or Ph.D., along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What does a laboratory researcher do?

A laboratory researcher conducts experiments, collects and analyzes data, and documents findings to support scientific studies. They often work with laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and may specialize in fields like biology, chemistry, or medicine to advance knowledge or develop new products.

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Researcher jobs in Indiana?

For Laboratory Researcher jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Researcher jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Researcher jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Researcher job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,624 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Research Technician (Laboratory Research Assistant)

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

The Linda and Jack Gill Institute for Neuroscience (The Gill Institute) was established to advance the understanding of complex brain processes and to train next generation scientists in state-of-the-art approaches in the field of neuroscience. The Gill Institute brings together multidisciplinary teams of world-class faculty interested in understanding brain functions under physiological and pathological conditions. In addition, the Gill Institute provides training to graduate students from a range of disciplines in the use and development of measurement techniques and instrumentation, as well as an opportunity for undergraduate students to be involved in cutting-edge research projects. It provides a platform for interaction with industry to identify important problems and commercialize advances; additionally, the Gill Institute widely disseminates advances in neuroscience methods.
Job Summary
The Neurobiology and Sleep Science Laboratory seeks a detail-oriented technician and a lab manager to support ongoing federally funded projects on the neural basis of circadian timekeeping and sleep regulation.
Department-Specific Responsibilities
  • Monitor and maintain the health and welfare of the lab's Drosophila melanogaster genetic fly stocks, including receiving new fly stocks and adding them to the lab fly stocks
  • Prepare media and solutions as needed to support research
  • Order research and laboratory supplies and maintain databases of lab fly stocks, chemicals, antibodies, and supplies ordered
  • Clean and maintain laboratory equipment
  • Supervise undergraduate students in basic lab maintenance tasks and manage lab adherence to all university policies and procedures for laboratory safety
General Responsibilities
  • Conduct tests across a diverse array of assays using laboratory machinery and computer programs
  • Test and set up lab equipment
  • Collect data and prepare reports based upon established protocols
  • Attend and participate in departmental meetings
  • Order, receive, and inventory laboratory supplies
  • Clean glassware and maintain laboratory work areas
  • Troubleshoot breakdowns, perform preventive maintenance, and call for repairs as needed
  • Maintain logs and equipment record books
Qualifications
Combinations of related education and experience may be considered. Education beyond the minimum required may be substituted for work experience. Work experience beyond the minimum required may be substituted for education.
EDUCATION / WORK EXPERIENCE
Required
  • Bachelor's degree and 2 years of experience in a laboratory setting; OR
  • Associate's degree and 4 years of experience in a laboratory setting
Preferred
  • Research experience with Drosophila melanogaster
  • Experience in a life-sciences research lab preferred
  • Training in Biology or Chemistry
SKILLS
Required
  • Proficient written and verbal communication skills
  • Maintains a high degree of professionalism
  • Demonstrates time management and priority setting skills
  • Demonstrates a high commitment to quality
  • Possesses flexibility to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment
  • Highly thorough and dependable
  • Possesses a high degree of initiative
  • Ability to build strong customer relationships
Preferred
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Meticulous attention to detail
  • Strong analytical and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a laboratory setting with minimal supervision as part of a research team
  • Demonstrates conscientiousness
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Demonstrated reliability
Working Conditions / Demands
The role regularly requires the ability to effectively communicate. The role frequently requires the ability to move about the work environment and to position oneself to operate laboratory equipment effectively. The role requires the ability to move objects weighing up to 25 pounds and will occasionally work near moving mechanical parts. The person in this role must be able to perform the essential functions with or without an accommodation.
Work Location
Bloomington, Indiana
Benefits Overview
For full-time staff employees, Indiana University offers a wide array of benefits including:
  • Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
  • Health savings account with generous IU contributions
  • Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
  • Basic group life insurance paid by IU
  • Voluntary supplemental life, long-term disability, critical illness, and supplemental accidental death & dismemberment insurance
  • Base retirement plan with generous IU contributions, subject to vesting
  • Voluntary supplemental retirement plan options
  • Tuition subsidy for employees and family members taking IU courses
  • 10 paid holidays plus a paid winter break each year
  • Generous paid time off plans
  • Paid leave for new parents and IU-sponsored volunteer events
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
Learn more about our benefits by reviewing the IU Benefit Programs Brochure .
Job Classification
Career Level: Mastery
FLSA: Nonexempt
Job Function: Research
Job Family: Laboratory Research
Click here to learn more about Indiana University's Job Framework.
Posting Disclaimer
This posting is scheduled to close at 11:59 pm EST on the advertised Close Date. This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University, but will remain open for a minimum of 5 business days. To guarantee full consideration, please submit your application within 5 business days of the Posted Date.
If you wish to include a cover letter, you may include it with your resume when uploading attachments.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Indiana University is an equal opportunity employer and provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non-Discrimination here which includes contact information .
Campus Safety and Security
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, containing policy statements, crime and fire statistics for all Indiana University campuses, is available online . You may also request a physical copy by emailing IU Public Safety at iups@iu.edu or by visiting IUPD.
Contact Us
Request Support
Telephone: 812-856-1234
Apply for Job
  • Staff Positions
  • Sign In
  • New User
  • Enable Screen Reader Mode