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Student Research Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Student Research Associate information

What is a student research associate?

Student Research Associates are students, typically at the undergraduate or graduate level, who assist faculty or professional researchers with academic or scientific research projects. Their responsibilities may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and helping with experiments or fieldwork. This role provides hands-on experience in research methodologies and often helps students develop skills essential for future academic or professional careers.

What are some typical challenges student research associates face when balancing academic responsibilities with research commitments?

Student Research Associates often juggle coursework deadlines, exams, and research tasks simultaneously, which can be challenging to manage. Effective time management and clear communication with both academic advisors and research supervisors are essential to prevent conflicts and ensure productivity. Many students find it helpful to set regular check-ins with their research team and plan their schedules in advance to accommodate both requirements. Additionally, learning to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance can significantly reduce stress and enhance performance in both areas.

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

To thrive as a Student Research Associate, you need a solid understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, usually gained through relevant coursework or a degree program. Familiarity with tools like statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, or citation management systems is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and time management are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and handling multiple tasks. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate data collection, efficient project progression, and meaningful contributions to research outcomes.

What is the difference between Student Research Associate vs Research Intern?

AspectStudent Research AssociateResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, relevant courseworkTypically students or early career professionals
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university settingsResearch institutions, labs, or corporate R&D
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Student Research Associate and a Research Intern lies in their typical work environment and credentials. Student Research Associates are usually enrolled students working within academic settings, focusing on coursework and research projects. Research Interns may be students or early professionals working in research labs or industry R&D. Both roles involve research tasks, but the context and employer types differ.

Is a student research associate a good career?

A student research associate role provides valuable experience in research methods, data analysis, and scientific communication, which can benefit future academic or industry careers. However, it is typically a temporary position focused on gaining skills rather than long-term employment, so its value depends on individual career goals and how the experience is leveraged.

What do you do as a student research associate?

A student research associate assists with research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and supporting the research team. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher and may use tools like laboratory equipment or data analysis software. This role helps students gain practical experience in their field of study and develop research skills.

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Student Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Student Research Associate job openings:

Student Research Associate jobs near you

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Metabolomics

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Metabolomics
Appointment Type:
Post Doc/Trainee
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Metabolomics Research Facility is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to support collaborative and independent research focused on metabolomics and small molecule analysis using advanced mass spectrometry technologies. This position will play a key role in developing and executing metabolomics workflows for a diverse portfolio of research projects involving biological, environmental, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and biomanufacturing applications.
The successful candidate will operate, maintain, and provide training on a variety of analytical instrumentation, including a Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Astral Mass Spectrometer, LC-MS, and GC-MS platforms. The individual will collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external researchers to design experiments, prepare samples, acquire and analyze data, and interpret complex metabolomics datasets.
Research activities will include both targeted and non-targeted metabolite profiling of a wide range of sample types, including animal models, human cell lines and cohorts, plants, microbial systems, environmental samples, and other novel biological materials. The postdoctoral researcher will assist in the development and implementation of new analytical methods and provide scientific consultation to researchers utilizing facility resources.
Additional responsibilities include coordinating metabolomics research projects, supporting the training of laboratory users, contributing to the preparation of scientific reports and publications, presenting research findings at professional conferences, and participating in ongoing professional development opportunities. The position offers an opportunity to work in a highly collaborative research environment while advancing expertise in mass spectrometry, metabolomics, and interdisciplinary scientific research.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
  • Experience working with mass spectrometry instrumentation, associated software platforms, and data analysis workflows.
  • Research experience in non-targeted metabolomics, global metabolomics, lipidomics, or closely related fields, including experimental design, sample preparation, data acquisition, data analysis, and post-acquisition bioinformatic and/or statistical analysis.
  • Experience analyzing high-resolution LC-MS/MS data generated using Thermo Scientific Orbitrap instrumentation or similar high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience using Thermo Scientific software applications, including Xcalibur, Compound Discoverer, TraceFinder, and LipidSearch.
  • Experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex analytical instrumentation in a research laboratory.
  • Experience processing, analyzing, and interpreting raw mass spectrometry data.
  • Experience with multi-omics data integration, statistical analysis, and biological interpretation of complex datasets.
  • Demonstrated ability to support collaborative research projects and communicate technical findings to diverse scientific audiences.

Department/Program & College Description:
The W.M. Keck Metabolomics Research Laboratory in Iowa State University's Office of Biotechnology provides state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based metabolomics services and expertise to researchers at Iowa State University and collaborators worldwide.
Department Unit/Website:
W.M. Keck Metabolomics Research Lab | Iowa State University
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Proposed Start Date:
September 1, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
Post Docs
Original Posting Date:
August 28, 2026
Posting Close Date:
September 28, 2026
Job Requisition Number:
R19759
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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