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Botany Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Review work of lower-level laboratory personnel and assist in the training of new personnel. Assist ... Work requires an Associate's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, or other science ...

RESEARCH TECHNICIAN I

Durham, NC · On-site

$18 - $26.49/hr

Review work of lower-level laboratory personnel and assist in the training of new personnel. Assist ... Work requires an Associate's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, or other science ...

Research interests that complement existing strengths in the Botany Graduate program. * Research experience and/or interest in developing projects focusing on taxa or ecosystems of Hawai?i and other ...

Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new ... in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other science related scientific field program.

RESEARCH TECHNICIAN III

Durham, NC · On-site

$23.06 - $34.96/hr

Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new ... in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other science related scientific field program.

Work requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related ... Monitor laboratory inventory and assist with ordering, organization, and management of laboratory ...

Research Technician II

Durham, NC · On-site

$19.06 - $28.85/hr

Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other ... Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new ...

Research Technician II

Durham, NC · On-site

$19.06 - $28.85/hr

Work generally requires a bachelor's degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other ... Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new ...

Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new ... degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology or other directly related scientific field.

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Botany Research Assistant information

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How much do botany research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for botany research assistant in the United States is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Botany Research Assistant do?

A Botany Research Assistant supports scientists and researchers in studying plants, their physiology, genetics, ecology, and interactions with the environment. Typical duties include collecting plant samples, preparing laboratory experiments, recording data, maintaining research equipment, and assisting with data analysis. They may also help with fieldwork, documentation, and literature reviews. This role is essential for advancing botanical research and often serves as a stepping stone for careers in plant science or related fields.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Botany Research Assistant during fieldwork, and how are they managed?

Botany Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and the need for precise data collection while working in the field. Managing these challenges involves thorough preparation, including checking weather forecasts, bringing appropriate gear, and following safety protocols. Attention to detail is crucial, as accurate sample collection and data recording directly impact research outcomes. Teamwork and effective communication with lead researchers and peers also help in overcoming obstacles and ensuring successful field studies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Botany Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Botany Research Assistant, you need a solid background in plant biology, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in botany or a related life science. Familiarity with research tools such as microscopes, PCR machines, and data analysis software like R or SPSS is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies are critical for ensuring accurate data collection, supporting research goals, and contributing to the success of scientific projects.

What is the difference between Botany Research Assistant vs Plant Biologist?

AspectBotany Research AssistantPlant Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in botany, biology, or related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in plant biology or related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field research sites, botanical gardensResearch institutions, universities, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, research labsAcademic, government, private sector research
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in plant researchMore advanced, research-focused roles

While both roles involve plant research, a Botany Research Assistant typically holds a bachelor's degree and supports research projects in labs or field settings. A Plant Biologist usually has advanced degrees and conducts independent research, often leading projects. The roles differ mainly in education level, scope of responsibilities, and research independence.

What cities are hiring for Botany Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Botany Research Assistant job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Botany Research Assistant jobs? The top employers for Botany Research Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Botany Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Botany Research Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Botany Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,597 per year, or $21 per hour.
Research Assistant III

Research Assistant III

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT • On-site

$19.46 - $23.23/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Montana State University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

365th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Announcement Number
STAFF - VA - 26442
For questions regarding this position, please contact:
Mike Giroux
mgiroux@montana.edu
406-994-7877
Classification Title
Research Asst III
Working Title
Research Assistant III
Brief Position Overview
Perform quality testing to assist the MSU Breeding Programs develop improved varieties for Montana producers.
Position Number
4M0320
Department
Plant Sciences
Division
College of Agriculture/MAES
Appointment Type
Classified
Contract Term
Fiscal Year
Semester
If other, specify From date
If other, specify End date
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Union Affiliation
FOCUS-MFPE
FTE
1.0
Benefits Eligible
Eligible
Salary
Salary range of $19.468 - $23.23 hourly, commensurate with experience, education, and qualifications.
Contract Type
Classified Salary
If other, please specify
Recruitment Type
Open
Position Details
General Statement
The two Research Assistant III positions are located in the Montana State University Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology, Cereal Quality Laboratory (CQL). The CQL researches the end-use properties of cereal and pulse grains. Emphasis is on seed quality for wheat, barley, and pulses. Flour milling, bread, and noodle quality are also measured on wheat samples. The CQL cooperates with plant breeders, field technicians, researchers, and others to ensure that high quality varieties are released to growers. Additionally, the CQL is valuable in assisting with the development of new markets for Montana State wheat, barley, and pulse varieties.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of Cereal Quality Lab manager, Prashant Kumar, the Research Assistant IIIs will perform the following duties:
  • Catalog and clean all incoming samples;
  • Measure and report whole seed composition;
  • Measure milling yield and flour properties;
  • Measure bread and noodle quality;
  • Conduct various tests for department researchers and graduate students;
  • Provide daily supervision, instruction and delegation of laboratory duties to student employees;
  • Conduct tours of the Cereal Quality Laboratory to interested parties including children, farmers, college classes, professors, and/or legislators;
  • Maintain a clean work area;
  • Clean glassware and perform general maintenance of laboratory equipment;
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. Two years post-secondary education or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
  2. Demonstrated competence utilizing computer equipment and computer programs such as word processing, spreadsheets, database management, etc.

Preferred Qualifications - Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
  1. Degree in biology, plant science, botany or related field.
  2. Agricultural research experience.
  3. Working knowledge of quality standards for grain.
  4. Supervisory experience.

The Successful Candidate Will
  • Establish and maintain effective working relations with a diverse group of co-workers in a team-oriented environment.
  • Possess the ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively with co-workers.
  • Prioritize workplace safety at all times.
  • Consistently exercise initiative and good judgement.
  • Be self-motivated and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Possess effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Demonstrate organizational and time management skills.
  • Perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy and close attention to detail.
  • Communicate information, procedures, and directions clearly and accurately.
  • Demonstrate competence maintaining accurate and detailed laboratory records.
  • Maintain confidentiality of records and information.
  • Professionally represent the Cereal Quality Lab/MSU and its programs to others in a professional and courteous manner.

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University's rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
  • Duties are accomplished while standing for several hours at a time.
  • Ability to effectively work with plant materials in a dusty and noisy environment while wearing appropriate safety equipment.
  • Ability to maneuver incoming samples weighing up to 50 pounds.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
This position has supervisory duties?
Yes
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on June 26, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran's preference, please complete the veteran's preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

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