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Biochemistry Lab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

SRA 3

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$115K - $146K/yr

... vitro biochemistry and cellular experiments. * Cell Culture and Cloning: Conduct extensive cell ... assist to educate and implement other lab members according to protocol. 100% (To update total ...

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Biochemistry Lab Assistant information

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$12

$24

$36

How much do biochemistry lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for biochemistry lab assistant in Berkeley, CA is $24.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by biochemistry lab assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Biochemistry Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, maintaining accurate records, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, pay close attention to detail, and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members. Regular training on lab procedures and equipment, as well as proactive time management, can help ensure smooth workflow and successful experiment outcomes.

What is the difference between Biochemistry Lab Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiochemistry Lab AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, some certificationsAssociate degree or relevant certification, sometimes higher
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, educational institutions, biotech companiesMedical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, biotech firms, research institutionsHospitals, clinical labs, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in biochemistry labsMore technical, clinical focus

In summary, a Biochemistry Lab Assistant typically works in research or educational settings with a focus on supporting experiments and lab tasks, while a Laboratory Technician often works in clinical or industrial labs with a focus on testing and analysis. Both roles require relevant certifications and have overlapping work environments, but they serve different industry needs.

What are the typical duties of a biochemistry lab assistant?

A Biochemistry Lab Assistant supports scientists by preparing laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, and analyzing samples. They are responsible for maintaining a clean and organized lab environment, recording data accurately, and following safety protocols. Assistants may also help with inventory management and the disposal of hazardous materials. Their work is crucial for ensuring that experiments run smoothly and results are reliable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biochemistry lab assistant?

To thrive as a Biochemistry Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of biochemistry principles, laboratory safety protocols, and typically at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, techniques like PCR and spectrophotometry, and knowledge of data analysis software such as Excel or specialized lab management systems is important. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and smooth teamwork. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining reliable research results and supporting efficient laboratory operations.

What degree do you need for a biochemistry lab assistant?

A biochemistry lab assistant typically needs at least an associate's degree in biochemistry, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree, especially for more advanced or specialized roles, along with laboratory skills and familiarity with scientific equipment.

What job categories do people searching Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Biochemistry Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Biochemistry Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Biochemistry Lab Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,565 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Staff Research Associate

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description


This Staff Research Assistant 1 (SRA1) will be heavily involved in performing physiological studies, tissue dissection and processing, cellular and tissue analyses, and data analysis to quantify results in association with a project devoted to understanding the heterogeneous responses to GLP-1 receptor agonists across multiple traits and in the context of genetic diversity. In doing this work, the individual will be performing in vivo tests of glucose and energy homeostasis in mouse models of diet-induced obesity, delivering GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs to animals undergoing these tests, and performing western blotting, molecular biology analyses, ELISA, cell culture, transcriptional assessments, and histological techniques. Beyond this, the individual will assist in carrying out experiments probing fatty liver, adipose tissue formation, and molecular underpinnings of type 2 diabetes in the context of ER stress in support of the Koliwad Lab's research program.
Responsibilities
of time
Essential Function (Yes/No)
Key Responsibilities
(To be completed by Supervisor)
50%
Yes
Mouse work: maintenance and husbandry, serving as point person for management of mouse study cohorts, including administering specific drugs and nutrients both orally and by injection, mouse genotyping, and metabolic testing including those needed to measure glucose, insulin, and pyruvate tolerance as well as those needed to measure food intake and energy balance
30%
YesMolecular biology techniques: assisting with surgeries and tissue analyses, and the performance of PCR, western blot, histological analyses, cell sorting, microscopy, and image analysis. Experience/understanding of tissue culture, molecular cloning, and basic bioinformatic analysis tools is of added value
20%
Yes
Record-keeping and general laboratory maintenance, including setting up the lab, ordering and stocking supplies, and coordinating equipment maintenance.
  • Attendance at trainings and seminars to advance the understanding of the individual's projects and career development• ordering supplies/reagents/ equipment
  • Organizing lab gatherings including lab meetings and journal clubs.
  • Managing laboratory protocols and approvals (mouse care protocol, bio-safety protocol, and chemical inventory).

100
(To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • BA/BS degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related sciences, and knowledge of, or experience with, the basic techniques or methods required by the position; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience with basic biochemical assays, tissue culture, molecular biology techniques, high-throughput sequencing, programming such as python/R, histology and basic animal handling experience (may be that which is acquired while in school).
  • Methodological knowledge on how to optimize the molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and cellular assays to be performed
  • Mouse handling and colony management

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Basic skills in statistical analysis and the use of relevant statistical software.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of molecular cloning.
  • Knowledge of mouse genetics and husbandry.
  • Basic mammalian tissue culture techniques.
  • Basic understanding of trouble-shooting experiments and problem solving.
  • Basic understanding of tissue sectioning, histology, staining and imaging.
  • Preparation of scientific figures using Power Point, Adobe Illustrator, and/or similar programs.

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