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Research Lab Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Indiana University

Research Associate

Bloomington, IN · On-site

In the Change Lab (PI: Benjamin Motz) at Indiana University Bloomington, we study learning in context. Our research examines mechanisms of human learning, the conceptual structure of human knowledge ...

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How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab in Indiana is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $26.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What lab job pays the most?

In research labs, senior roles such as Principal Investigator or Laboratory Director typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities, and they often involve securing funding and managing research projects.

What is a research lab?

A research lab is a specialized facility where scientists, researchers, or students conduct experiments and investigations to advance knowledge in a particular field. Research labs can be found in universities, hospitals, private companies, or government institutions and are equipped with tools and equipment tailored to their focus area. These labs support a variety of activities, such as basic or applied research, testing, and product development, often following strict safety and ethical guidelines.

Is it hard to get into a research lab?

Getting into a research lab can be competitive and often requires relevant academic background, research experience, and strong skills in the field. Applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency with specific tools or methodologies and sometimes secure recommendations or internships to improve their chances.

What is the difference between Research Lab vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch LabResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (Master's or PhD)Bachelor's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, research facilitiesAssist in experiments, data collection in labs or field
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, research projects, government agencies

Research Lab refers to a facility or organization conducting scientific research, often led by senior researchers. A Research Assistant is a role within a research lab, supporting experiments and data analysis. While both are involved in research activities, Research Lab is the environment or organization, whereas Research Assistant is a specific job position within that environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Research Lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Research Lab position, you need strong analytical skills, scientific knowledge in your field, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success. These abilities ensure accurate experimentation, meaningful results, and a safe, collaborative research environment.

How do I become a lab researcher?

To become a lab researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or physics is required, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. Additionally, gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory techniques, and familiarity with scientific tools and data analysis are important steps in pursuing a career as a lab researcher.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a research lab environment?

Working in a research lab often involves navigating tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and troubleshooting experimental setbacks. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently work alongside other researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes students, which requires strong communication skills. Additionally, maintaining meticulous records and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of research findings. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding and can help foster valuable problem-solving and teamwork skills for your future career.

How much do lab researchers get paid?

Lab researchers' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers or those with advanced degrees can earn over $80,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab jobs in Indiana? For Research Lab jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Research Lab jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Research Lab job openings:
Research Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,596 per year, or $21 per hour.

Research Technician (Laboratory Research Assistant)

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

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.
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