1

Researcher Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Johnston, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Responsibilities: * Assist with creating, executing, and scoring results supporting research team needs, including but not limited to: * processing samples under sterile lab conditions * measuring ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Researcher Assistant information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Researcher Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Researcher Assistant, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a relevant academic background, often in the field of research. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), online research databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively help someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, efficient project support, and meaningful contributions to research outcomes.

What is the difference between Researcher Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectResearcher AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree or ongoing education in a related fieldUsually a master's degree or higher in a relevant discipline
Work EnvironmentSupportive research settings, labs, or academic institutionsIndependent research projects, often with more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, research organizations, private sector R&D
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research rolesCompared for more advanced research positions

The main difference between a Researcher Assistant and a Research Associate lies in their experience, education, and responsibilities. Researcher Assistants typically hold a bachelor's degree and support research activities, while Research Associates usually have higher qualifications and take on more independent research tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but they differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What are some typical challenges Researcher Assistants face when balancing multiple projects, and how are these usually managed within research teams?

Researcher Assistants often juggle several projects with overlapping deadlines and priorities. This can be challenging, especially when coordinating data collection, literature reviews, and reporting tasks simultaneously. Most research teams address this by holding regular check-ins, using project management tools, and setting clear expectations about deliverables. Developing strong organizational skills and proactive communication with supervisors and team members are key strategies to manage workload effectively.

What does a research assistant do?

A research assistant supports research projects by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data, often using tools like spreadsheets or statistical software. They may also review literature, prepare reports, and assist with experiments or fieldwork under the supervision of a lead researcher.

Do research assistants get paid a lot?

Research assistants' salaries vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience, but they generally earn modest wages compared to other roles in research or academia. Entry-level research assistants often earn hourly wages that align with minimum or slightly above-minimum pay, while those with specialized skills or advanced degrees may earn higher salaries. Compensation can also include stipends, especially in academic settings, and may increase with additional responsibilities or experience.

How hard is it to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position typically requires relevant academic background, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, and strong organizational and analytical skills. Competition can vary depending on the field and institution, but having experience with research methods, data analysis, or specific tools can improve chances. Entry-level roles may be accessible to recent graduates, while more advanced positions often require specialized knowledge or prior research experience.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research assistants typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or engineering. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, proficiency with data analysis tools, and good communication abilities are also important qualifications.

What are Researcher Assistants?

Researcher Assistants are professionals who support scientists, scholars, or other researchers in conducting studies and experiments. Their tasks often include collecting and analyzing data, preparing materials, conducting literature reviews, and maintaining laboratory equipment or records. Researcher Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that research projects run smoothly and efficiently. They may work in academic, scientific, technical, or medical settings, and often gain valuable experience that can lead to further career advancement in research or academia.
What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Researcher Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Researcher Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Researcher Assistant job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Research Assistant - Trapp Lab - Psychiatry

Research Assistant - Trapp Lab - Psychiatry

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of Iowa rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

425th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Psychiatry at the University of Iowa is seeking a Research Assistant to join the laboratory of Dr. Nicholas Trapp.   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.

The Trapp 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.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities
    Exhibit satisfactory knowledge of research techniques and procedures relating to the performance of clinical research, especially that 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 of documents to necessary agencies.
    Collaborate with Principal Investigator 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.

Supervision
Supervision is received from Dr. Trapp, in the Department of Psychiatry.  
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.

Classification Title: Research Assistant
Department/Division: Psychiatry, Trapp Lab
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.

Dual Posting
The department intends to hire for one position from either: Research Assistant - Trapp Lab - Psychiatry #26003627 or Research Associate - Trapp Lab - Psychiatry #26003626, based on the qualifications of the successful candidate. Please apply for the specific position for which you wish to be considered or both.
 

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 .


What University Of Iowa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom