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Biological Research Assistant information

What is a biological research assistant?

Biological Research Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers in laboratory and field settings by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining lab equipment. They often help prepare biological samples, record results, and ensure proper documentation of experiments. Their work is crucial for advancing research in areas such as genetics, microbiology, ecology, and medicine. Typically, they work under the supervision of senior researchers or principal investigators, contributing to scientific discoveries and innovations.

What does a biological research assistant do?

As a Biological Research Assistant, your daily activities often include preparing laboratory materials, conducting experiments under the supervision of lead scientists, and recording or analyzing data. You’ll work closely with other team members such as researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes graduate students, facilitating smooth project workflows. Collaboration is key, particularly when troubleshooting experiments or ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Regular participation in team meetings to discuss findings and share progress is also common, which helps build communication and project management skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biological research assistant?

To thrive as a Biological Research Assistant, you need a solid background in biology or related sciences, laboratory experience, and at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), and techniques like PCR or microscopy is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, reliable experimental results, and smooth collaboration within research teams.

What is the difference between Biological Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiological Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, biotech companiesClinical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsHospitals, diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, career pathsTechnical duties, lab work specifics

The Biological Research Assistant typically holds a bachelor's degree and engages in research activities within academic or biotech settings. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians often have an associate's degree or certification and focus on technical lab tasks in clinical or industrial environments. Both roles support scientific work but differ mainly in educational requirements and work focus.

What are popular job titles related to Biological Research Assistant jobs in Oregon?

For Biological Research Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biological Research Assistant jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Biological Research Assistant jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Biological Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Biological Research Assistant job openings:

Biological Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biological Research Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Research Assistant

Portland, OR • On-site

Oregon Health & Science University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 625 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Oregon Health & Science Universityexternal

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Department Overview

This role is a key position as a research assistant in the laboratory of Dr. Brian O'Roak studying the genetic basis and developmental neuroscience of autism and related disorders. Key responsibilities will include supporting studies utilizing rodent and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) models, human cell culture, as well as human genomics projects.

Applicants must have basic laboratory skills and knowledge of standard molecular biology and cell culturing techniques, such as DNA extraction, molecular cloning, PCR, Sanger sequencing, working in tissue culture. A strong background with rodent models and/or stem cell tissue culture, including genotyping and animal husbandry, is also required. Experience in neuroscience, human genetics/genomics, or molecular biology (genome editing) is strongly preferred, as well as a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences. This position demands excellent organizational skills, time flexibility, and the ability to work both independently and in a team environment.

Function/Duties of Position
  • Provides assistance with mouse colony management and husbandry, tissue dissection, immunohistochemistry and genotyping. Assists with running behavioral assays and maintaining cell cultures.
  • Plans, conducts, and completes laboratory experiments under the supervision of the head of the laboratory.
  • Performs primary molecular genetic techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, enzymatic analyses, fluorescence assisted cell sorting (FACS), fluorescent and light microscopy, plasmid preparation, DNA isolation from mouse and human tissues, next-generation library preparation, and studies of gene expression.
  • Assignments require the performance of complex test procedures and analyses involving multiple procedures and a variety of technical approaches. Operates a variety of instruments and scientific equipment, including operation, quality control and maintenance.  Assists with experiments and assays, preparing solutions, collecting and entering data, maintaining databases, assuring compliance with established safety procedures and maintaining required documentation.
  • Collects, records, organizes and verifies the accuracy of data. Conducts literature searches and summarizes information in an appropriate format for a particular study; Documents and interprets results of experiments and reports to principal investigator. Presents experimental results at lab meetings and participates in journal and research group meetings.
  • Assists in the daily operation of the lab including hazardous waste disposal, sterilization of equipment, cleaning glassware, general servicing of equipment and ordering lab supplies, and preparation of media and buffers.
Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's in relevant field; OR

  • Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR

  • 4 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Experience with mouse handling and colony managment or stem cell tissue culture.

  • Basic laboratory skills and knowledge of standard molecular biology techniques.

  • Ability to manage a mouse colony, including setting up matings, collecting tissue,  and genotyping.
  • Ability to culture human cells using sterile tissue culture techniques and familiarity with stem cells.

  • High level of attention to detail and proven ability to manage time effectively, especially with competing priorities.

  • Knowledge of academic research settings and ability to work with qualitative and/or quantitative methods of data collection.

  • Ability to communicate well and work with faculty and staff within the department and University.

  • Ability to take initiative and work independently and in a team environment.

  • Ability to complete tasks in an accurate and timely manner.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in the biological sciences.

  • 2-4 years of experience serving on a research team.

  • Human genetics/genomics.

  • Advanced molecular biology.

  • Next-generation library preparation.
Why apply to OHSU?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.eduEmployment Type: OTHER
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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

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