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Temporary Research Associate information

What is a temporary research associate?

A Temporary Research Associate is a professional hired for a limited period to assist with research projects in academic, scientific, or industrial settings. Their responsibilities typically include collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and supporting senior researchers. The position is usually project-based or covers a specific timeframe, and it is ideal for gaining hands-on experience in research. Temporary Research Associates often work under the supervision of principal investigators and may contribute to publications or presentations. This role can serve as a stepping stone to permanent research positions or further academic study.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a temporary research associate?

To thrive as a Temporary Research Associate, you generally need a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, strong analytical skills, and experience with data collection and analysis. Familiarity with technical tools such as statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and data management systems is typically required. Excellent attention to detail, time management, and effective communication help set top candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate research outcomes, efficient project contribution, and effective collaboration within research teams.

What are common challenges faced by temporary research associates in adapting to new research projects quickly?

Temporary Research Associates often join projects that are already underway, requiring them to rapidly familiarize themselves with existing data, protocols, and team dynamics. A common challenge is efficiently learning the specifics of the research methodology and tools in use, while also building rapport with the team in a short time frame. Successful associates typically demonstrate adaptability, strong communication skills, and the ability to ask clarifying questions to quickly get up to speed. Proactively seeking guidance from colleagues and utilizing available documentation can help ease the transition and contribute effectively to project goals.

What is the difference between Temporary Research Associate vs Research Assistant?

AspectTemporary Research AssociateResearch Assistant
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant field; research experienceTypically pursuing or holding a Bachelor's or Master's degree
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesUniversities, research labs, government agencies
Job DurationTemporary, project-basedUsually ongoing, part-time, or temporary

The main difference is that a Temporary Research Associate is often a more advanced, project-specific role requiring relevant research experience and a higher level of responsibility, while a Research Assistant typically supports research activities and may be a student or early-career professional. Both roles are common in research environments but differ in scope and experience level.

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

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

Temporary Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Research Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Post Doctoral Research Associate

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Guttenberg, IA • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Title:
Post Doctoral Research Associate
Department:
Dist Professor
Reports To:
Distinguished Professor
Position Summary:
The Center for Natural Resources (CNR) at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (http://cnr.njit.edu) invites applications for a postdoc position in the area of modeling water flow in rivers and estuaries as subjected to rain and coastal flooding. We are seeking distinct technical excellence to bridge the gap between theoretical hydrology and applied engineering solutions for complex urban flood scenarios.
As coastal and pluvial flood risks intensify, the need for precise, reliable, and robust hydraulic and hydrologic simulations is critical. This role focuses on the rigorous application of industry-standard models to generate actionable data for municipal resilience. You will be responsible for the development of operational models that protect critical infrastructure and communities.
Essential Functions:
  • Advanced Modeling: execute high-precision H&H simulations for urban flood analysis, focusing on pluvial and fluvial interactions.
  • Operational Excellence: Develop and run transient condition simulations using HEC-RAS and similar platforms, incorporating design storms and projected rainfall events.
  • Data Integrity: Process complex spatial-temporal datasets and validate model outputs against historical records to ensure absolute reliability of simulation results.
  • Mentorship & Dissemination: Mentor graduate students and translate technical findings into high-quality publications for top-tier journals.

Prerequisite Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in Hydrology, Hydraulics, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated mastery of established H&H models (HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM).
  • A "reliability-first" mindset: The ability to produce consistent, defensible model results.
  • Strong foundation in hydrology and hydraulics.

At the university's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be exempted where the candidate can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the university an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Union:
United Council of Academic @ NJIT (UCAN GSRE)
Range:
Post Docs
Compensation:
$62,232.00
NJIT considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses, or other items.
FLSA:
Exempt
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Rate:
Salary
Additional Information:
As an EEO employer NJIT is committed to building a diverse and inclusive teaching, research, and working environment and strongly encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, veterans, and women.
Employment at NJIT is subject to the provisions of New Jersey First Act which mandates new employees, who are not NJ residents, to establish primary residence in New Jersey within one year of their appointment to certain positions. The law does not apply to any individual employed at NJIT on a temporary or per semester basis as a visiting or adjunct professor, teacher, lecturer, researcher or administrator. For more information on the act please click here.
If special accommodations are needed in applying for a position, please visit the Department of Human Resources located in Fenster Hall, 5th Floor, University Heights, Newark, NJ 07102 or call (973) 596-3140. If you have questions, please email the Human Resources Department at hr@njit.edu.
Information regarding NJIT campus security, personal safety, and fire safety including topics such as, disciplinary procedures, crime prevention, NJIT Police law enforcement authority, crime reporting policies, and crime statistics for the most recent three year period is available on the NJIT Department of Public Safety here.
NJIT is an E-Verify employer and uses E-Verify to confirm work authorization of each new hire.

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