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Psych Research Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

School Psychologist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$48K - $116K/yr

... other AEA professionals) to assist students in meeting their goals Typical Duties and ... Complete academic, intellectual, adaptive behavior, and psychological evaluations with deaf and ...

Police Officer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$33.14 - $42.94/hr

Inform the public about policies, services or procedures. Assist motorists or pedestrians; and with ... psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective ...

Public Safety Dispatcher

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$28.95 - $32.36/hr

Dispatch personnel and equipment. Assist in reports and records processing; and computer-aided ... psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective ...

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Psych Research Assistant information

What is a psych research assistant?

Psych Research Assistants are individuals who support psychologists and researchers in conducting psychological studies. Their responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing data, recruiting and scheduling study participants, preparing research materials, and helping ensure studies comply with ethical guidelines. They may also assist with literature reviews, data entry, and basic statistical analysis. This role is essential for the smooth operation of psychology research projects and provides valuable experience for those considering advanced study or a career in psychology.

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

To thrive as a Psych Research Assistant, you typically need a background in psychology or a related field, along with strong analytical and research skills. Familiarity with statistical software (like SPSS or R), survey tools, and research ethics certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills. These abilities are crucial for ensuring data accuracy, supporting research integrity, and facilitating smooth collaboration within research teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by psych research assistants when collecting and managing data?

Psychology Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy, maintaining participant confidentiality, and adhering to strict research protocols. Managing large datasets can be complex, especially when dealing with sensitive information or multiple sources of data. Additionally, RAs must be prepared to troubleshoot technical issues with research software and handle unexpected participant behaviors during studies. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication within the research team.

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

AspectPsych Research AssistantClinical Research Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in psychology or related fieldOften a bachelor's degree, sometimes requiring certification or experience in clinical settings
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, universitiesHospitals, clinics, clinical trial sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, mental health organizationsPharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, clinical trial organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles in psychologyCompared for managing clinical trials and patient interactions

The main difference between a Psych Research Assistant and a Clinical Research Coordinator lies in their work focus and environment. Psych Research Assistants typically work in academic or research settings focusing on psychological studies, while Clinical Research Coordinators manage clinical trials in healthcare settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and industry applications.

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

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

Infographic showing various Psych Research Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Research Assistant - Trapp/Boes Lab - Psychiatry

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 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

461st of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Psychiatry at the University of Iowa is seeking a Research Assistant.  This position is within the laboratories of Dr. Nicholas Trapp and Dr. Aaron Boes whose lab's current projects aim to better understand the neuroanatomical and circuit-based pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, with an emphasis on the development and optimization of stimulation-based neurotherapeutics.  Research methods include structural and functional neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and clinical trial design.

The Research Assistant will be responsible for coordinating day-to-day clinical research activities by assisting, preparing and submitting the appropriate Human Subjects Review forms and application materials to the Institutional Review Board, assisting with subject recruitment, scheduling, retention, and enrollment; preparing and overseeing data entry; maintaining routine compliance with regulatory agencies; training and assisting new lab members with their projects.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities
    Exhibit satisfactory knowledge of research techniques and procedures relating to the performance of clinical research, especially those related to neuropsychiatric disorders and neuromodulation techniques including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and frameless neuronavigation. 
    Display excellent interpersonal sensitivity and communication skills by developing and maintaining a positive working relationship within an interdisciplinary research team.
    Demonstrate excellent organizational skills and documentation in a research setting.
    Assist in the preparation of regulatory submissions and updating documents to necessary agencies.
    Collaborate with Principal Investigators and the study team in the development, execution, administration and maintenance of protocols and clinical studies.  As skills develop, provide input into descriptions of complex research procedures.
    Responsible for scheduling participants for procedures or follow up as required by the study protocol or design, arrange for follow-ups with study participants and maintain records of their visits and interviews. 
    Update and maintain lab manuals for onboarding and training lab members.
    Obtain informed consent and other required regulatory documents and monitor participant experience for reportable events. 
    Participate in the collection, and entry of data into clinical trial research data systems.
    Perform data management and analysis with standard software.
    As skills develop, coordinate with staff or students engaged in data collection to provide instruction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work.
    Assist with the preparation and submission of documents related to research protocol annual reviews, modifications, Adverse Events, Safety Reports and other reportable events to IRB, as needed.
    May be called upon to interview and train new staff on clinical trial and testing procedures and supervise implementation of research protocols. May supervise and/or facilitate the progress of students working on research projects.

Staff Type: Professional and Scientific
Pay Level: 3A
Type of Position: Full-time, Specified Term, 12 months with possibility of extension
 

Required Qualifications
    Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
    Minimum 1 year of clinical research experience.
    Baseline knowledge of statistical software, such as SPSS, RStudio or MATLAB.
    Demonstrated ability to successfully multitask by effectively allocating time and managing involvement in several research projects.
    Demonstrated ability to manage complex information with attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
    Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Desirable Qualifications
    Advanced degree in psychology, neuroscience, or other health sciences.
    Experience with individuals with various neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, or epilepsy.
    Prior experience performing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) on human subject participants.
    Experience collecting various physiological measures such as electroencephalography (EEG), autonomic measures (galvanic skin response), and electrocardiograms (ECG).
    Prior knowledge and experience with designing and implementing REDCap projects and Qualtrics surveys.
    Knowledge of University of Iowa policies, procedures, and regulations.

Application Process
To be considered, applicants must upload a Cover Letter and Resume (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position. 
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.
Professional references will be required at a later time in the recruitment process. 
For more information, contact lori-posey@uiowa.edu .

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: Lori Posey
  • Contact Email: lori-posey@uiowa.edu

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