ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Volunteer Researcher Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The University Of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ...

University of Iowa

Research Assistant

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Research Assistant (RA) assists the Aldridge Lab with research projects meant ... Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist I

Ames, IA · On-site

Position Title:Research Scientist I Job Group:Professional & Scientific Required Minimum ... Various voluntary benefits and discounts * Employee Assistance Program * Wellbeing program * Iowa ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist III

Ames, IA · On-site

Position Title:Research Scientist III Job Group:Professional & Scientific Required Minimum ... Various voluntary benefits and discounts * Employee Assistance Program * Wellbeing program * Iowa ...

Iowa State University

Research Scientist III

Ames, IA · On-site

Research Scientist III Job Group: Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications ... Various voluntary benefits and discounts * Employee Assistance Program * Wellbeing program * Iowa ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVolunteer Researcher JobsVolunteer Researcher Jobs in Iowa

Volunteer Researcher information

What is a volunteer researcher?

Volunteer Researchers are individuals who offer their time and skills to assist with research projects without monetary compensation. They may work in various fields, such as academia, non-profits, or scientific organizations, contributing to data collection, analysis, literature reviews, or other research-related tasks. Volunteer Researchers often gain valuable experience, expand their professional networks, and support important causes through their work. Their roles can vary widely based on the project's needs and the organization's goals.

What types of projects do volunteer researchers typically work on, and how are assignments chosen?

Volunteer Researchers often contribute to diverse projects such as data collection, literature reviews, community-based studies, or assisting with survey distribution and analysis. Assignments are usually matched based on your skills, interests, and the organization's current needs. You may have the opportunity to express preferences, and supervisors typically provide guidance and training to ensure a good fit. Collaboration with other team members and regular check-ins are common, helping you stay aligned with project goals and timelines.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Researcher, you generally need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in the relevant research field, often supported by a degree or ongoing education. Familiarity with data collection tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or Excel), and online research databases is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and self-motivation are essential soft skills that help you contribute effectively while working independently or in teams. These skills and qualities are important because they ensure accurate, ethical, and impactful research outcomes that support the goals of the organization.

What is the difference between Volunteer Researcher vs Research Assistant?

AspectVolunteer ResearcherResearch Assistant
CredentialsOften no formal degree required; some background in the field helpfulTypically requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a related field
Work EnvironmentNon-profit, academic, or community-based projects; often unpaidAcademic labs, research institutions; paid or internship positions
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, universities, research groupsUniversities, research institutes, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding unpaid or volunteer research rolesPaid research roles or internships for students and early-career professionals

Volunteer Researchers typically engage in research activities without pay, often in non-profit or academic settings, and may not require formal credentials. Research Assistants usually hold relevant degrees and work in paid positions within research institutions. Both roles contribute to research projects but differ mainly in compensation, credentials, and work environment.

Are there research volunteer opportunities?

Research volunteer opportunities are available through various organizations, universities, and research institutions that often seek volunteers to assist with data collection, literature reviews, or outreach. These roles typically require good communication skills, attention to detail, and sometimes specific knowledge or training in the research area. Volunteering can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities for those interested in research careers.

What does a volunteer researcher do?

A volunteer researcher conducts investigations and gathers information to support projects or organizations without monetary compensation. They may analyze data, review literature, or collect field data, often using research tools and methods to contribute to specific goals or studies.

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

The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Iowa are:

Volunteer Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Researcher job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Turfgrass Research Scientist

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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:
Turfgrass Research Scientist
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree
Job Description:
The Department of Horticulture in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking a Turfgrass Research Scientist to help advance nationally recognized turfgrass program focused on athletic field safety, golf course management, sports turf performance, turfgrass adaptation, and sustainable management practices.
This position offers a unique blend of outdoor field research, laboratory work, equipment operation, data analysis, and scientific collaboration. Working alongside faculty, students, and industry partners, you'll conduct research that improves the safety, performance, and management of athletic fields, golf courses, parks, and other managed turf systems.
Whether your goal is to become a leader in the turfgrass industry or pursue graduate education, this position provides an exceptional opportunity to develop technical expertise, gain hands-on research experience, and explore innovative ideas in a collaborative environment where learning through experimentation is encouraged.
Key Responsibilities
  • Coordinate and execute applied turfgrass field research by preparing research sites, implementing experimental protocols, scheduling field activities, and overseeing student employees.
  • Establish, maintain, and evaluate turfgrass research plots through mowing, irrigation management, fertilizer and pesticide applications, and cultivation practices.
  • Collect, document, and manage research data, including plant and soil samples, turfgrass quality and color ratings, weed assessments, soil moisture measurements, and surface hardness and stability testing.
  • Assist in developing and refining research methods and protocols, maintain research databases, perform data quality control, and conduct statistical analyses.
  • Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to support research projects, scientific publications, grant proposals, field demonstrations, and extension and outreach activities.
  • Present research findings at field days, scientific conferences, and industry meetings, prepare educational displays and demonstration plots, and provide tours of research facilities for visitors and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Turfgrass Management, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field.
  • Experience establishing, maintaining, and managing turfgrass research plots or production systems, including irrigation management.
  • Experience operating, calibrating, troubleshooting, and maintaining turfgrass or agricultural equipment.
  • Experience collecting, managing, and analyzing research data.
  • Experience applying fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, or other crop protection products in accordance with research protocols and applicable regulations.
  • Experience presenting research findings, contributing to scientific publications, or supporting extension and outreach activities.

Why Join Iowa State University?
This position has served as a launching point for many early-career turfgrass professionals. Former Research Scientists have gone on to earn master's and doctoral degrees or build successful careers in the turfgrass industry. You'll have opportunities to lead applied research projects, present your work, contribute to publications, and develop the technical expertise needed for the next stage of your career.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
The selected candidate will be hired as a Research Scientist I.
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

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.
Appointment Type:
Regular
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
PS807
Original Posting Date:
July 22, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R19637
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.

What Iowa State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply