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Research Project Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Research Project Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$47K

$80.8K

$124K

How much do research project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for research project manager in Iowa is $80,806.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,200.00 and $85,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research project manager do?

A Research Project Manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of research projects within organizations such as universities, nonprofits, or private companies. Their responsibilities include coordinating teams, managing budgets and timelines, ensuring compliance with regulations, and communicating progress to stakeholders. They act as a bridge between researchers, administrative staff, and sometimes external partners, ensuring that project goals are met efficiently and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research project manager?

To thrive as a Research Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, and research methodologies, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in managing research teams or studies. Familiarity with project management software (like Asana or MS Project), data analysis tools (such as SPSS or R), and compliance certifications (like GCP) is typically required. Excellent organization, leadership, and communication skills help coordinate diverse teams and stakeholders effectively. These skills ensure that complex research projects are completed on time, within budget, and in accordance with regulatory and scientific standards.

What are some common challenges faced by research project managers when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Research Project Managers often coordinate teams comprising experts from various fields, which can present challenges related to communication, differing priorities, and aligning timelines. Successfully managing these dynamics requires strong interpersonal skills, clear communication, and the ability to mediate between stakeholders to ensure everyone is working toward shared project goals. Regular check-ins, transparent progress tracking, and fostering a collaborative team culture can help mitigate these challenges and keep projects on schedule.

What is the difference between Research Project Manager vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Project ManagerResearch Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; often requires project management certificationsBachelor's degree in related field; may require research experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, manages teams, and coordinates with stakeholdersAssists with daily research activities, data collection, and participant coordination
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, healthcare, and biotech companiesAcademic research labs, clinical trials, healthcare organizations

The Research Project Manager typically handles project planning, team management, and stakeholder communication, while the Research Coordinator focuses on supporting research activities, data collection, and participant management. Both roles are essential in research settings but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Research Project Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Research Project Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Research Project Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Research Project Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Project Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,806 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Research Assistant-Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Lab

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform research activities based on protocols developed by other research staff or the principal investigator.

  • Conduct sample handling, biochemical assays, and operate laboratory equipment to support research projects.

  • Collect, analyze, and summarize data; prepare reports and contribute to publications.


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

464th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

* This position is not eligible for university sponsorship for employment authorization. *

BASIC FUNCTION

Perform research in the area of complement mediated renal diseases, perform clinical testing as a member of the CDS renal team and perform research and development.  The Research Assistant will work with frozen serum and plasma samples received into the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories - Clinical Diagnostics Services (MORL CDS) for Functional and Biomarker testing.  The RA will perform sample accessioning, aliquoting, perform assays, report results, maintain inventory and quality management for the CDS.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Research:

  • Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project.

  • Read and review articles as directed.

  • As individual skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypothesis for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator.

Experiments, Investigations, Evaluations:

  • Read and understand protocols.

  • Conduct sample recording, pre-analytical sample handling and sample inventory and storages

  • Conduct biochemical assay such as ELISAs, immunoelectrophoresis, complement activity assay and other functional assays

  • Calibrate and operate laboratory equipment including thermocyclers, centrifuges, and spectrophotometers.

  • Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for experimental protocols.

  • As individual skills develop perform complex techniques as outlined in research protocols and test and evaluate current procedures.

  • Set up and operate equipment for experiments. 

  • Perform experimental procedures assuring fidelity to protocols; record and consolidate data as directed by Technical Supervisor (TS) and/or Principal Investigator (PI).

  • Track progress/success of research project. Review QA (quality assessment) with TS periodically.

  • As skills develop may present results at lab and/or group meetings.

  • As skills develop, develop and monitor quality controls.

Collect, Analyze and Summarize Data; Prepare Reports; Contribute to Manuscripts, Publications:

  • Collect, track, and perform data entry for reports.

  • Prepare materials for reports.

  • Managing large data sets and maintaining highly organized and detailed research records.

  • As skills develop, analyze data.

  • Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications.

Administrative and Project Management:

  • Perform a variety of routine tasks related to the recruitment, enrollment and monitoring of research subjects or to the research environment (lab, clinic, field, classroom).

  • Obtain subject consent and assist with IRB submissions or equivalent protocol, if applicable.

  • Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines.

Facilities and Equipment Management:

  • Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment.

  • Assist with procurement of supplies and materials.

  • May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures; reconcile statements.

Supervision/Staffing:

  • May train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of employees to assure outcomes are achieved.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, biochemistry, immunology) or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Hands-on wet-lab experience with immunology/biochemistry techniques, including PCR and/or ELISA and/or DNA/protein electrophoresis.

  • Strong attention to detail with accurate documentation and data recording.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience handling human specimens (serum/plasma) and following biosafety practices.

  • Familiarity with complement assays or related immunoassays.

  • Experience working with SOPs and basic quality practices.

Position and Application Details

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original 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 ashley-rayer@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Research Assistant
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 3A
Contact Information
  • Organization: Healthcare
  • Contact Name: Ashley Nelson
  • Contact Email: Ashley-Rayer@Uiowa.edu

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