ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Scientist Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScientist JobsAssistant Scientist JobsAssistant Scientist Jobs in Oregon

Assistant Scientist information

See Oregon salary details

$21

$32

$43

How much do assistant scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant scientist in Oregon is $32.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.91 and $40.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and compliance with safety protocols is often necessary. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help an Assistant Scientist collaborate and contribute to research goals. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, efficient workflow, and meaningful contributions to scientific discovery.

What is an assistant scientist?

An assistant scientist is a research professional who supports scientific investigations by conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results under the supervision of senior scientists. This role often requires a relevant degree, such as a bachelor's or master's in a scientific field, and familiarity with laboratory tools and procedures.

How much do assistant research scientists make in the US?

Assistant research scientists in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often with opportunities for advancement in research environments or laboratories.

What is the difference between Assistant Scientist vs Research Associate?

AspectAssistant ScientistResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDBachelor's or Master's degree; often more focused on supporting research activities
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, field sitesLaboratories, research projects, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaceuticals, academiaUniversities, research labs, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles, career progressionSupporting research tasks, project involvement

Assistant Scientists and Research Associates often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in responsibilities: Assistant Scientists typically engage in more independent research and may have opportunities for project leadership, while Research Associates focus on supporting research activities and data collection. Both roles are vital in research settings and serve as stepping stones for advanced scientific careers.

Which scientist is highly paid?

In the scientific field, specialized roles such as senior research scientists, principal investigators, and those with advanced degrees and extensive experience tend to have higher salaries. Fields like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and data science often offer the highest compensation for scientists with advanced skills and certifications.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

To be a research assistant, candidates typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Strong analytical skills, familiarity with laboratory equipment or data analysis software, and good communication abilities are also important. Some positions may require specific certifications or prior research experience.

What are Assistant Scientists?

Assistant Scientists are entry- to mid-level research professionals who support scientific investigations in laboratory, field, or academic settings. They assist with experiments, data collection, analysis, and the preparation of reports or publications. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining lab equipment, ensuring safety protocols, and collaborating with senior scientists or research teams. Assistant Scientists are commonly found in industries such as pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and academia. A bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant scientific field is typically required for this role.

What are some common challenges Assistant Scientists face when transitioning from academia to an industry laboratory setting?

Assistant Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter differences in pace, project scope, and collaborative structures. Industry labs tend to prioritize efficiency and teamwork, with strict timelines and clearly defined deliverables. Unlike academic research, where projects may be more exploratory, industry roles typically require adherence to standardized protocols and regulatory guidelines. Building strong communication skills and adapting to cross-functional collaboration are essential for success. Embracing these changes can accelerate professional growth and lead to new opportunities within the organization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Scientist jobs in Oregon? For Assistant Scientist jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Scientist jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Scientist jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Assistant Scientist jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Assistant Scientist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Scientist jobs in OR? For Assistant Scientist jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Assistant Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Scientist job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,255 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Assistant Staff Scientist

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care. 


The Pfeifer lab is a collaborative Research group within the School of Dentistry, Department of Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences. The lab was established in 2011 and has been continuously supported by the NIH-National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, and others. We have a strong track record in the fields of Biomaterials and Polymer Chemistry, with over 150 publications and several full patents. Our focus is to develop materials solutions for use in healthcare applications (including oral) with a heavy emphasis at the interface with microbiology and host tissue interactions. We have been able to be successful in this quest thanks to a multi-disciplinary team of highly collaborative individuals, including materials scientists, clinicians, engineers, chemists and microbiologists. The work we do spans traditional materials science and cell biology. We'd love for you to join us!

Dr. Carmem Pfeifer seeks an Assistant Staff Scientist with extensive knowledge of microbiology and materials science related methods to drive research projects to academic and translational goals. This person will contribute to scientific direction of numerous projects and share the management responsibilities for lab members working on those projects. Technical expertise in the area molecular biology and molecular design, as well as collaborative research approach are key to success in this role. 


  • PhD in relevant field (Bioengineering, Biology, Biomaterials, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science)
  • Doctoral degree in Biomedical Sciences or related fields and a minimum of 3 years of post-doctoral work experience in a research lab with a focus on material-tissue/biofilm interactions
  • Intimate knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology assays
  • Knowledge of how to operate various instrumentation and basic engineering principles for applications and troubleshooting with instrumentation (including at least a few of the following: Mechanical testing: universal testing machine (flexural strength, fracture toughness, dynamic mechanical analysis, rheology); Spectroscopic techniques (IR and UV-Vis, mass spec, GPC, HPLC); Imaging (SEM and confocal microscopy)
  • Ability to optimize and adapt existing molecular biology protocols for analysis of modified material surfaces
  • Familiarity with spatial analysis approaches such as spatial transcriptomics, especially for engineered tissues or on-chip systems
  • Familiarity with technical writing, including research manuscripts, methods manuscripts, patents, and other IP documentation
  • Ability to lead discussions around research projects and proactively communicate with research team members for the success of the project
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
  • Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills: both written and verbal
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems
  • Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Access, Word, and PowerPoint) on Window OS, and other advanced graphing and image design software (Prism, Origin, Photoshop, Adobe illustrator)
  • Ability to use empathy and diplomacy to support trainees and other lab members 

  • Experience with molecular biology techniques, in silico docking, molecular simulations, microbiology, materials science
  • High-quality peer-reviewed publications
  • Grant writing experience
  • Small molecule synthesis
  • Peptide synthesis
  • MATLAB
  • Additive manufacturing
  • Workshop experience

We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

View All Oregon Health & Science University Jobs

Apply