Research Data Specialist

Position Title:

Research Data Specialist

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with data manipulation and data analysis techniques.

Experience working with large or complex datasets.

Experience with programing and data analysis language(s) such as R or python

Knowledge of documenting and sharing data sets for public access.

Knowledge of agricultural life science research (e.g., agronomic, environmental, ecological or biotech).

Job Description:

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is seeking to hire a Research Data Specialist to help researchers assemble, organize, and document data derived from research for publication and long-term storage. In this position, you will work directly with data and researchers. You will provide advice and training on data management best practices such as the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data principles. You will work with large and small teams of researchers, including students and staff, to organize, document, transform, and publish research data.

This position offers opportunities for professional growth and contributions to high-impact research. This position is managed through the University Library’s Research Data Services unit and is a 1-year term position with the potential for renewal based on continued funding.

Example of Duties

• Assists in the preparation, cleansing, and verification of data.

• Performs data manipulation and analysis techniques.

• Develops and maintains complex data storage structures needed to support data warehouse functions.

• Trains and assists users, managers and technical staff regarding access, use and storage of data and maximizing database design effectiveness.

A successful candidate can:

• Work adaptively: able to work well independently, in teams and can adjust plans when needed to meet deadlines.

• Collaborate: operate effectively as part of a team to help others, find solutions, and make working with data easier.

• Communicate with purpose: ask and answer questions, explain processes, and provide prompt and responsive customer service.

• Work with different data types: be comfortable with data in different formats, like spreadsheets, maps (GIS), images, and more.

• Help others: work with people from across campus with varied levels of experience with data and technology.

• Work on multiple projects: handle several projects at once and change plans when needed to meet deadlines.

• Train and assist: provide instruction and guidance on a wide variety of data management topics such as tools, organization, documentation, and data preparation, cleansing, and verification.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives on variety and problem-solving. Each day brings new questions and fresh datasets, and you'll rarely find yourself doing the same task twice. Your curiosity and creativity will be key to solving data puzzles and helping researchers make sense of complex information. You'll play a central role in determining the most effective ways to organize, transform, document, and share data. If you enjoy working independently, are energized by continual learning, and want to collaborate with a wide range of researchers, this position offers a meaningful opportunity to make an impact.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship.

This is a term position with opportunity for renewal.

Candidate will be hired as a Data Analyst II.

Level Guidelines
• Intermediate-level position with solid professional and/or technical skills working under general supervision to achieve goals
• Applies broad, working knowledge of the principles of the field to moderately complex, difficult, and varied problems and issues
• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action and resolve problems
• Responds to a broad range of inquiries and requests
• May provide training and/or direction to lower-level staff
• May lead projects of moderate scope and complexity
• Provides guidance to students

Appointment Type:

Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

April 27, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS808

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: 1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae 2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter 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. Why Choose ISU? 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.

Original Posting Date:

April 8, 2025

Posting Close Date:

April 15, 2025

Job Requisition Number:

R16750