Research Internships are designed for individuals who seek training, experience and mentoring in a research setting; plan to pursue a graduate or professional degree in science, medicine or a related field; and have US citizenship or permanent residency. The internship allows them to work in the lab of a distinguished PI at a major national research institution, providing invaluable experience and preparation for commencement of advanced studies. The appointment is for a limited term.
More information for Research Interns can be found on the Vice President for Research web site https://research.uiowa.edu/ovpr/post-baccalaureate-research-internship. Questions should be directed to this site.
Interns may enroll in UIGRADCare, the Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) and Student Dental only. The University contribution toward the cost of coverage for 2011-2013 will be as follows: 90% of the cost for a single health insurance plan, 70% for coverage of family members; 85% of the cost for a single dental plan, 70% for coverage of family members.
The University Benefits Office will send a packet of materials at the time the appointment begins. This will include rates, information, and an enrollment form to complete and return. Information on the plans can also be reviewed at the insurance section of this web site.
Any Research Intern who has taxable income may participate in these accounts. For more information on them, along with the advantages of participating and the enrollment process, go to "Spending Accounts" on the Benefits web site A-Z search.
Research Interns are covered by Workers' Compensation.
Research Interns who are U.S. citizens are required to participate in the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) retirement plan. The employee will be required to contribute 5.78% of their salary; while the University will contribute 8.67%. This deduction will automatically be deducted from the monthly paycheck on a pre-tax basis. IPERS will send more information along with a beneficiary designation form. The form should be returned to either IPERS or to the University Benefits Office. For further information on IPERS, go to www.ipers.org.
Upon termination of their appointment, if an individual does not continue as a regular State of Iowa employee, they may request a refund of their contribution in one of two ways. If the appointment is less than six months, they should contact the University Benefits Office for a "Wage Adjustment Request." If the appointment is greater than six months, they should complete an IPERS refund form, which can be found at the above website or by calling 800-622-3849. This refund form provides the option of either rolling over the funds into another retirement plan or receiving a lump sum payment. If the individual chooses to receive a payment, they will be liable for state and federal taxes along with a 10% tax penalty for withdrawal prior to age 59-1/2.
Research Interns also have the option to participate in the Voluntary Retirement Savings Program (VRSP) if they have taxable income. Information on this program is available on the retirement section of this web site under 'Saving Extra for Retirement'.
Research Interns are entitled to annual paid leave of 15 working days, but do not accrue vacation and are not entitled to vacation pay. The appointing department is responsible for arranging and accounting of leave for these individuals.
Research Interns will receive a University identification card. This card provides access to library and information resources, cultural and athletic events, and the ability to charge items to a University billing account.