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Undergrad Research Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Student - Beekeeping

Hammond, IN ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Hammond Job Summary The Student Assistant - Beekeeping supports university apiary operations ... Interest in undergraduate research, graduate research, or extension/outreach work * Basic skills in ...

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Undergrad Research Assistant information

What is an undergrad research assistant?

Undergrad Research Assistants are undergraduate students who support faculty members or research teams with academic research projects. Their tasks may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, assisting in experiments, and preparing reports or presentations. These positions offer students valuable hands-on experience in their field of study, help them develop research skills, and can enhance their resumes or graduate school applications. The role varies depending on the discipline and specific project requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an undergrad research assistant?

To thrive as an Undergrad Research Assistant, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and foundational knowledge in your field, often supported by relevant coursework or laboratory experience. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory equipment, or literature databases is typically required depending on the research area. Effective communication, time management, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills for collaborating with faculty and peers. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, productive teamwork, and valuable contributions to research projects.

What are some common challenges faced by undergrad research assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Undergrad Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing time between coursework and research responsibilities, adapting to unfamiliar research methodologies, and communicating effectively with faculty mentors and team members. To address these, it's helpful to establish clear expectations early on, maintain an organized schedule, and proactively seek feedback or clarification when needed. Regular meetings with the research supervisor and open communication within the research team can also help undergraduates navigate the learning curve and grow in confidence.

What is the difference between Undergrad Research Assistant vs Lab Technician?

AspectUndergrad Research AssistantLab Technician
Required CredentialsUndergraduate degree or current student, relevant courseworkAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research projects, university settingsClinical, industrial, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, academic projectsHospitals, biotech companies, research facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles for undergraduatesClarifying lab technician responsibilities and qualifications

While both roles involve laboratory work, Undergrad Research Assistants typically support academic research projects and are often students gaining experience, whereas Lab Technicians usually work in clinical or industrial labs with more technical responsibilities. The roles differ mainly in educational requirements and work settings, but both contribute significantly to scientific research and laboratory operations.

What are popular job titles related to Undergrad Research Assistant jobs in Indiana?

For Undergrad Research Assistant jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Undergrad Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Undergrad Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Undergrad Research Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate, Biology

Indiana University Academic Positions

Bloomington, IN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Title Research Associate, Biology Appointment Status Non-Tenure Track Department IU Bloomington Biology Location Bloomington Position Summary
The Department of Biology is a large, unified department with strong undergraduate degrees, nationally-ranked graduate programs, and world-class research spanning the breadth of biological questions and experimental systems - from ecosystems to microbiology and developmental biology, from evolution to cell biology, from molecular biology to systems biology, bioinformatics, and genomics. It is always an exciting time for Biology - enormous advances in global genome analysis coupled with unprecedented developments in interdisciplinary research have made the 21st century the Century of Biology. For more information about the department, you can find it here: About: Department of Biology: Indiana University Bloomington.

The Fuqua Lab in the Department of Biology at Indiana University, Bloomington is seeking a Research Associate. Our lab in the Microbiology section is focused on complex bacterial behaviors, including biofilm formation and host interactions, using the plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens as a model. The overarching goal for this position is to make timely progress on our NIH grant entitled "Mechanisms of pterin-dependent regulation in proteobacterial systems" (Grant number R01 GM160733) which explores a new regulatory mechanism that controls biofilm formation we have discovered based on excreted metabolites called pterins (for details see Greenwich et al. 2024; PNAS, doi:10.1073/pnas.2319903121). The Fuqua lab research team is currently comprised of graduate students, a senior research scientist, and undergraduates. All members of our team contribute to the projects of other team members -this may include assistance with a research protocol, feedback on presentations, edits on manuscripts, and so on. The lab philosophy is that a collaborative and supportive research environment benefits everyone involved. We are seeking an individual to join this team, contribute to the lab in general, and further the goals of the NIH grant.
Basic Qualifications
Core job duties include: (1) Learning, conducting and teaching other lab members our key research protocols. In the lab, this will include: DNA purification, Molecular Cloning, Gel Electrophoresis, DNA Sequencing, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Bacterial Transformation, Microbiological Cultivation, SDS-PAGE, Western Blotting. These and other experimental approaches will be applied as needed to the experimental plan for the pterin project. (2) Management of pterin grant meetings and material exchanges between collaborating laboratories. (3) Laboratory management and ordering. (4) Participation in general laboratory task rotations (5) Written summaries of research (for annual grant reporting and for manuscript preparation), and research presentations (lab meetings, grant meetings, and conferences).
Required skills

Effective time management
Accurate and organized record keeping
Ability to work in a team
Receptivity to training and new techniques
Proficiency in written and oral communication
Problem solving and pro-active approach to preventing problems
Dependability and punctuality
Flexibility for research tasks and prioritization of experiments.
Preferred skills

Molecular biology experience
DNA sequence analysis
Aseptic technique and microbiology
Familiarity with data analysis and statistics
Working conditions: Laboratory research with periods of intense focus and technical clarity. Organization, planning and record keeping for experiments are crucial and this work requires careful and deliberate effort. Effective communication between lab members is critical.
Department Contact for Questions
To apply: Please submit (1) a cover letter describing your interests and background, why you are interested in the position, and the date you are able to start, (2) a CV or resume, (3) names and contact information for two references. This can be submitted to the following link: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33480. For questions about the position, contact Clay Fuqua (cfuqua@iu.edu).
Timing and compensation: Applicant review will begin on June 1, 2026. The initial appointment is for one year, with reappointment contingent on performance and continued funding. Salary will be commensurate with experience and full benefits are included. Best consideration date is 6/16/26 and expected start date is 7/1/26.
Additional Qualifications Salary and Rank Special Instructions For Best Consideration Date 06/16/2026 Expected Start Date 07/01/2026 Posting Number IU-101580-2026