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Medical Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The University Of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA

$18.75 - $26/hr

The University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center-recognized as one of the best hospitals in the ... Research Assistant * Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific * Schedule: Full-time * Work ...

University of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... The University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center-recognized as one of the best hospitals in the ...

University of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... The University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center-recognized as one of the best hospitals in the ...

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How much do medical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical research assistant in Iowa is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

A Medical Research Assistant should have a background in life sciences or a related field, strong analytical skills, and experience with laboratory techniques. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), and knowledge of research protocols or compliance standards like IRB procedures are commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and organizational skills are vital soft skills for managing data and collaborating within research teams. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, ethical research practices, and contribute to the overall success and reliability of scientific studies.

What are some typical challenges faced by medical research assistants when managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

Medical Research Assistants often juggle several research projects at once, which can present challenges such as balancing competing deadlines, ensuring data accuracy, and adhering to varying protocols. Effective organization and time management are crucial to keep studies on track and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Collaboration with principal investigators, lab technicians, and other team members helps distribute tasks and streamline communication, but adapting to shifting priorities and maintaining attention to detail remain essential skills for success.

What is the difference between Medical Research Assistant vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectMedical Research AssistantClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in health sciences or related field; certifications like CCRA are optionalRequires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CCRP or CCRC are common
Work EnvironmentAssists in laboratory or clinical settings, supporting research activitiesManages clinical trials, interacts with patients, and oversees study protocols
Employer & IndustryHospitals, research institutes, universitiesPharmaceutical companies, hospitals, research organizations

Medical Research Assistants support research activities by assisting with data collection, lab work, and patient interactions. Clinical Research Coordinators oversee entire clinical trials, ensuring compliance and managing study logistics. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and scope within the research process.

How do I become a medical research assistant?

To become a medical research assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as biology, nursing, or public health. Relevant skills include data collection, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research protocols; some positions may require certification or training in specific tools or procedures. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles can also improve job prospects.

What does a medical research assistant do?

A medical research assistant supports clinical and laboratory research by collecting and analyzing data, managing study documentation, and assisting with experiments. They often work under the supervision of researchers or physicians and may use tools like electronic health records and data analysis software. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of medical terminology are important for this role.

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

A medical research assistant typically needs a bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as biology, nursing, or public health. Relevant skills include attention to detail, data management, and familiarity with research protocols and tools like electronic health records or statistical software. Some positions may require certification or training in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) or human subjects research ethics.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Medical Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Research Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,857 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Research Assistant

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA

$18.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

467th of 627 rated colleges and universities

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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