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How much do research support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for research support specialist in the United States is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills do you need to be a research support specialist?

A research support specialist needs strong analytical skills, proficiency in data management and research tools such as databases and statistical software, and excellent communication abilities. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are also important for success in this role.

What is the difference between Research Support Specialist vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch Support SpecialistResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in a related field; some roles may require certifications in research methodsTypically a bachelor's degree; some positions may prefer or require coursework in research methods
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, healthcare settings; often involves administrative and technical supportLaboratories, field sites, academic settings; primarily involved in data collection and analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across academic, healthcare, and government research projectsCommonly found in academic and scientific research projects

The Research Support Specialist and Research Assistant roles share similarities in educational background and work environments, but the Specialist often handles more administrative and technical tasks, while the Assistant focuses on data collection and analysis. Both positions are vital in research projects, with the Specialist providing essential support to ensure smooth operations.

What is a research support specialist?

Research Support Specialists are professionals who assist researchers and research teams by providing technical, administrative, and project management support. Their responsibilities can include managing data, maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing research materials, supporting grant applications, and ensuring compliance with regulations. They play a crucial role in facilitating research activities so that scientists and scholars can focus on their core investigations. Research Support Specialists often work in academic institutions, laboratories, or research centers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research support specialist?

To thrive as a Research Support Specialist, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a background in research methodologies, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and project management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills help you effectively support researchers and manage multiple tasks. These skills are crucial for ensuring research projects run smoothly, data is accurate, and teams receive the support needed to achieve their objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by research support specialists when managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

Research Support Specialists often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges such as prioritizing tasks, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring consistent communication with research teams. Effective time management and organizational skills are essential to balance administrative duties, data management, and coordination with researchers. Utilizing project management tools and regularly updating stakeholders can help streamline workflows and reduce the risk of errors or delays.

What does a research support specialist do?

A research support specialist assists with the planning, organization, and management of research projects. They often handle data collection, analysis, and documentation, and may use tools like statistical software or databases to support researchers in achieving project goals.
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Research Support Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Support Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,399 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Research Support Specialist

The University Of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 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

458th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Grants and Research Services Center (GRSC) team seeks applicants who are eager to support grant and research administration services in the College of Education. The Research Support Specialist is in the GRSC and will work closely with the entire team to ensure high quality grant submissions. The position will focus on pre-award activities initially and will also include opportunities to be trained in post-award and research development activities.

Work Modality: A hybrid (remote/on campus) work arrangement may be available. GRCS staff is on campus in the office during each week. Occasional weekend and evening work may be required. The GRSC is in the Lindquist Center. This position is eligible for hybrid work within Iowa and will require a work arrangement form to be completed upon the start of your employment. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually, and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location. 

Appointment: Full time, P&S Specified Term Three (3) Year Appointment.
 

Specific Job Duties and Tasks:

  • Coordinate information between GRSC staff, PI's, Sponsoring Agencies, the Division of Sponsored Programs, and Grant Accounting.
  • Update database weekly to reflect grant submission/awards/appointments and enter faculty/staff effort.
  • Perform routine review of grant funding agency regulations to identify/obtain specific grant or guideline information and updates to assure information is integrated into grant submission documents appropriately.
  • Work with Research Manager evaluate requests for proposals (RFP); prepare and review proposals to assure completeness; route proposals. 
  • Perform other administrative support tasks in support of the research (e.g., respond to inquiries, data collection, analysis and management; prepare agendas, prepare meeting minutes, etc.).
  • Provide extensive contact with sponsored programs, grant accounting and federal and non-federal agencies and provide counsel and assistance to Pl's on internal and external policies
  • Interact with departmental administrators and principal investigators from other departments and colleges; interact with Grant Accounting, Division of Sponsored Programs, Accounts Payable, and Program Officers 
    regarding inquiries about contracts and grants.
  • Communicate with University of Iowa units regarding inquiries about contracts and grants within the College of Education.

To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. in business, finance, accounting or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
  • One to three years of grant related experience.
  • Familiarity with budgets and budget preparation in an administrative role.
  • Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Office, specifically Excel. 
  • Demonstrated experience with Adobe Acrobat.
  • Demonstrated experience working in a dynamic and fast paced environment under deadlines.
  • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills with demonstrated attention to detail.

Desired Qualifications

  • Pre-award grant application experience highly desirable. 
  • Basic understanding of post-award grant accounting. 
  • Knowledge of University of Iowa policies, procedures and regulations.
  • Experience developing and managing grant budgets, including interpreting and applying sponsor guidelines and cost principles.
  • Experience working with the University of Iowa grant and financial systems.
  • Experience with grants and office management.

Application Details

In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

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. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For questions, contact Alex Schutman at Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu

Benefits Highlights

  • Regular salaried position. Pay level 4A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
  • Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
  • For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.

About Iowa

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Additional Information
  • Classification Title: Research Support Specialist
  • Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Work Modality Options: On Campus, Hybrid within Iowa
Compensation
  • Pay Level: 4A
Contact Information
  • Organization: College of Education
  • Contact Name: Alex Schutman
  • Contact Email: alex-schutman@uiowa.edu

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