Research Assistant, IIHR
The Research Assistant, IIHR will contribute to projects within the Iowa Integrated Network for Science, Information, and Geospatial Health Tracking (Iowa INSIGHT). As a research assistant, the selected applicant will assist in the preparation and implementation of large sampling campaigns conducted through Iowa INSIGHT, collection of samples in the field and via collaboration with partners, processing and analysis of samples in the laboratory, data processing, and results reporting to project participants. Additional project responsibilities will be determined by funding sources, and this person will also collaborate on other projects as required.
This is a 1-year specified term position.
We will be considering multiple hires for this role.
If your H-1B petition is subject to the September 19, 2025, Presidential Proclamation, please note that the department will not cover the $100,000 payment associated with H-1B sponsorship, either at the time of hire or for international travel purposes. We encourage you to explore alternative pathways for work authorization. Our team is available to help identify options that may be suitable for your situation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigators of the research project. Read and review articles as directed. As individual skills develop, analyze literature to develop hypotheses for discussion with other researchers or principal investigators.
- Read and understand protocols. Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for research protocols, including the preparation and dissemination of sample collection kits. Set up and operate research materials or equipment. Perform procedures assuring fidelity to protocols. Recruit, consent, and enroll research subjects. Perform various tasks in the research environment (lab and field) including sample collection, sample processing and sample analysis. Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines. Collect, record, and consolidate data as directed by the Principal Investigator, including extracting data from laboratory instrumentation. Track the progress of research activities, including notable activities related to the receipt, processing and completion of samples. Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain the validity and integrity of research data. As individual skills develop: troubleshoot, analyze, and propose modifications to protocols; perform complex techniques per protocol; test and evaluate current procedures; develop and implement procedures for monitoring data integrity; and may present results at team meetings.
- Collect and track data, perform data entry for reports, and maintain records of methods used. Prepare materials for reports including figures and tables, along with associated captions. As skills develop, analyze data. Prepare bibliographies and abstracts for publications. May present results/findings at team and departmental meetings.
- Assist with IRB, ACURF or similar protocol submissions, if applicable. Track various indicators of project progress and summarize in reports to the research team. Assist in documenting compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines. Maintain an up-to-date sample log.
- Assist in the preparation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory and facility equipment. Assist with the procurement of supplies and materials. May initiate purchasing requests, monitor accounts/expenditures, and reconcile statements. Track the inventory of all materials and supplies needed to support research activities.
- As skills develop, may train, provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling of students and newer employees.
To obtain the full job description including key areas of responsibility, technical competencies, and desirable qualifications, please contact Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
About the College of Engineering
The College of Engineering at the University of Iowa is driven by talented faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to producing knowledge that addresses grand challenges in advanced technologies, health sciences, sustainability, energy, and the environment. We pride ourselves on producing ethical, globally aware engineers whose work makes the world safer and more efficient. As a center of innovation and discovery, the College of Engineering is committed to improving the quality of life for our Iowa community, as well as for people across the United States and around the world.
Education Requirement:
- Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, environmental engineering, public health or a closely related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Required Qualifications:
- 6 months – 1 year of experience performing duties similar to those in the job description.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others in a research environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate scientific information to a variety of audiences.
- Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite of software.
- Ability to travel throughout Iowa and the surrounding region, including overnight stays and driving in inclement weather. A valid driver’s license is required, as is continued compliance with the University of Iowa Fleet Safety Program driving standards (University of Iowa Operations Manual Part V, Chapter 19).
- Ability to handle the physical aspects of conducting fieldwork, including but not limited to: working in hot, cold, or wet weather, walking/hiking long distances (potentially in rough terrain), and lifting/carrying awkward and/or heavy items.
- Prior experience working in a research laboratory setting.
Desired Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in chemistry, environmental engineering, public health or a closely related discipline
- Prior experience with ICP-MS, LC-MS/MS or other environmental analytical instrumentation used for trace analysis
- Experience working with large datasets, including coding languages for handling, processing, and analyzing large datasets such as R, Python and/or SQL
- Experience working on externally funded projects.
- Experience with ESRI ArcGIS software.
- Experience with education and outreach activities.
Application Details
In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
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. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For questions, contact Alex Schutman at Alex-Schutman@uiowa.edu
Benefits Highlights
- Regular salaried position. Pay level 3A. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.
- Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
- For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.
About Iowa
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success. Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance. Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation. Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
