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Animal Behavior Research Assistant Jobs in Washington

Umd

Research Asistant

College Park, MD

$45K - $55K/yr

The Research Assistant supports ongoing research projects by performing literature reviews ... Hands-on experience with animal models to study pathogenesis and host immune responses.

Howard University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

... Behavioral Sciences. SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY: N/A PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: * Recruits subjects to participate in research studies; assesses potential participants for eligibility; enrolls study ...

HIT Strategies

2026 Research Pipeline

Washington, DC · Remote

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 ... Drive accurate, high-quality, culturally competent analysis of behaviors, attitudes, values, and ...

HIT Strategies

2026 Research Pipeline

Washington, DC · On-site

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 ... Drive accurate, high-quality, culturally competent analysis of behaviors, attitudes, values, and ...

HIT Strategies

2026 Research Pipeline

Washington, DC · On-site

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 ... Drive accurate, high-quality, culturally competent analysis of behaviors, attitudes, values, and ...

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All JobsAnimal Behavior Research JobsAnimal Behavior Research Assistant JobsAnimal Behavior Research Assistant Jobs in Washington

Animal Behavior Research Assistant information

What does an animal behavior research assistant do?

An Animal Behavior Research Assistant helps scientists study how animals act and interact with their environment, other animals, and humans. Their tasks often include observing animals, collecting and recording behavioral data, setting up experiments, and sometimes handling or caring for animals. They may work in laboratories, zoos, wildlife reserves, or in the field. This role is essential for advancing our understanding of animal behavior, which can inform conservation efforts, animal welfare, and scientific research.

What are some common challenges faced by animal behavior research assistants in fieldwork settings?

Animal Behavior Research Assistants often encounter unpredictable factors during fieldwork, such as sudden changes in animal activity, weather conditions, and difficult terrain. These challenges require adaptability and patience, as data collection schedules may need to be adjusted on short notice. Additionally, assistants must maintain meticulous records and follow strict protocols to ensure data accuracy, even under less-than-ideal circumstances. Collaboration with other researchers and effective communication are key to overcoming these obstacles and achieving research goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal behavior research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Behavior Research Assistant, you typically need a background in biology, psychology, or animal science, with experience in research methods and data collection. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, behavioral coding tools, and laboratory or field equipment is essential. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you accurately record findings and collaborate with research teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable research outcomes and contributing meaningfully to scientific understanding of animal behavior.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior Research Assistant vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Behavior Research AssistantAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in biology, psychology, or related fieldOften requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or animal behavior studiesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizations, animal behavior studiesAnimal shelters, veterinary practices, zoos, pet care facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Animal Behavior Research Assistant primarily focuses on studying animal behavior through experiments and data analysis, often requiring a background in science or psychology. In contrast, the Animal Care Technician provides hands-on care and daily management of animals in shelters or clinics. While both roles involve working with animals, their work environments, responsibilities, and required credentials differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Washington?

For Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Animal Behavior Research Assistant job openings:

Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research Assistant job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Research Asistant

College Park, MD

Umd
See more jobs at Umdexternal

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description SummaryOrganization's Summary Statement:
The Research Assistant supports ongoing research projects by performing literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and assisting with the development of reports, publications, and presentations. This role helps maintain the accuracy and integrity of project data while contributing to the daily operations of the research team.
EXAMPLES OF WORK:
Assist with data collection, including surveys, interviews, laboratory work, or field research.
Assist in data analysis using statistical software or qualitative methods, as appropriate.
Maintain accurate records of research activities, procedures, and results to ensure transparency and accountability.
Ensure compliance with institutional research protocols and ethical standards.
Coordinate scheduling of research participants and manage study logistics as needed.
Other duties as assigned.
Physical Demands: crouching; lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling laboratory items such as reagent boxes, carboys, waste containers, and portable equipment; typically up to 25 lb.
Licenses/ Certifications: NAMinimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Two (2) years of experience in research coordination.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

Knowledge of qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies.

Knowledge of surveys, interviews, lab procedures, experiments, or fieldwork.

Skill in written and verbal communication for reporting and collaboration.

Skill in precision data entry, analysis, and documentation.

Skill in computational and problem-solving techniques.

Skill in maintaining research records, files, and data integrity.

Ability to interpret data, identify patterns, and draw conclusions.

Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and prioritize workload.

Ability to work effectively with faculty, researchers, and fellow assistants.

Additional Job Details
Responsibilities:
  • Independently design, plan, and execute complex laboratory experiments in support of research objectives, including animal infection studies, animal monitoring and weighing, fungal cell culture, tissue collection and processing, flow cytometry sample preparation and staining, immunohistochemistry, colony-forming unit (CFU) assays, data analysis, and interpretation of experimental results.
  • Oversee and manage transgenic and research mouse colonies by developing breeding strategies, coordinating weaning, genotyping, and colony maintenance, ensuring animal welfare compliance, maintaining accurate breeding records, and optimizing colony productivity to meet research needs.
  • Coordinate laboratory administrative and operational functions, including grant-related documentation, purchasing, invoice reconciliation, budget tracking, regulatory compliance, biosafety and laboratory safety programs, and implementation of institutional and funding agency requirements.
  • Direct laboratory inventory and equipment management by evaluating supply needs, procuring materials, monitoring expenditures, maintaining inventory systems, coordinating equipment maintenance and repairs, and ensuring uninterrupted laboratory operations.
  • Analyze experimental data, maintain comprehensive research records, prepare reports, and contribute to research presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications as appropriate.
  • Develop, implement, and improve laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs), train and provide technical guidance to laboratory personnel, students, and trainees, and promote adherence to established research protocols and quality standards.
  • Exercise independent judgment in establishing priorities, resolving operational issues, and coordinating multiple concurrent research activities to support laboratory objectives.
  • Perform other professional responsibilities and research-related duties as assigned in support of the laboratory's scientific mission.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or related fields of study related to the research of the laboratory.
  • Hands-on experience with animal models to study pathogenesis and host immune responses.
  • Experience in advanced immunological methods such as multi-parameter flow cytometry.
  • Excellent communication skills and strong verbal, written and editing skills.

Required Application Materials:

Resume

Cover Letter

Three References with Contact Information

Best Consideration Date:

August 9, 2026

Posting Close Date:

NA

Open Until Filled:

Yes

Job RisksNot Applicable to This PositionFinancial Disclosure RequiredNo

For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.

DepartmentAGNR-Veterinary Medicine ProgramWorker Sub-Type Staff RegularSalary Range$45562.00-55000.00
Benefits Summary

For more information on Regular Exempt benefits, select this link.

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regardingdisclosablebackground checkinformation. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination NoticeResources

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