ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Computer Science Research Assistant Jobs in Portland, TN

Vanderbilt University

Research Asst I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... ImageJ, CAD, or equivalent engineering tools is preferred. * Strong verbal and written ... scientists, veterinarians, clinicians, students, and external partners are required. * Strong ...

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant will support research, writing, and editing for the Institute. The ideal ... A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. (e.g., Political Science, International ...

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The position is a combination of science and administrative responsibilities. The candidate will ... Knowledge of Microsoft Office programs and computer skills. About Us At Vanderbilt University , our ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... is seeking a Research Assistant II (RAII) to join our team. In this role, you'll be a key ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... is seeking a Research Assistant II (RAII) to join our team. In this role, you'll be a key ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Asst 2 - On Site

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

In this pivotal role as a Research Assistant II, you will support ongoing research in a dynamic ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 1 (Johnson)

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... research projects; collect, assess, and communicate data/results. Assist in general laboratory ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 1 (Johnson)

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... research projects; collect, assess, and communicate data/results. Assist in general laboratory ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 3 - ON SITE

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Georgiev laboratory seeks qualified applicants for a Research Assistant III (RAIII) role. The ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 3 - ON SITE

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Georgiev laboratory seeks qualified applicants for a Research Assistant III (RAIII) role. The ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsComputer Science Research JobsComputer Science Research Assistant JobsComputer Science Research Assistant Jobs in Portland, TN

Computer Science Research Assistant information

See Portland, TN salary details

$7

$19

$28

How much do computer science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer science research assistant in Portland, TN is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer science research assistant?

A Computer Science Research Assistant supports professors or researchers in conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing software or algorithms. They may assist with literature reviews, coding, debugging, or testing to advance research projects. The role often involves working with programming languages, machine learning, cybersecurity, or other specialized topics. It provides valuable experience for students or professionals looking to deepen their knowledge in the field.

What are the typical duties and daily responsibilities of a computer science research assistant?

As a Computer Science Research Assistant, your daily responsibilities often include assisting with data collection and analysis, developing or testing software prototypes, conducting literature reviews, and helping prepare reports or presentations for research findings. You may also collaborate closely with faculty, graduate students, or industry partners, contributing to coding tasks, experimental setups, and troubleshooting technical issues as they arise. The role frequently involves both independent problem-solving and teamwork, providing a supportive environment to deepen technical skills and gain hands-on research experience. This position is an excellent opportunity to develop your research portfolio, learn advanced computing concepts, and prepare for potential graduate study or specialized tech careers.

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

To thrive as a Computer Science Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), and a solid understanding of algorithms and data structures, usually evidenced by coursework or a relevant degree. Familiarity with research tools, version control systems (like Git), and possibly certifications in data analysis or machine learning are advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication help individuals excel when collaborating on research projects. These competencies enable you to support rigorous research, contribute to innovative solutions, and work efficiently as part of an academic or industry research team.

What cities near Portland, TN are hiring for Computer Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, TN with the most Computer Science Research Assistant job openings:

Computer Science Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Science Research Assistant job openings in Portland, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,361 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Research Asst I

Nashville, TN • On-site

Vanderbilt University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Vanderbilt Universityexternal

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Position Summary:
The Research Assistant is part of the Mechanical Engineering Department in the Dong Lab at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual contributor responsible for evaluating airway medical devices in small- and large-animal models.
The Research Assistant will plan, coordinate, and execute preclinical studies that assess device performance, usability, safety, and biological response in the airway. Responsibilities include developing test methods and study plans; preparing devices, fixtures, and instrumentation; supporting procedures under approved animal-use protocols and veterinary oversight; acquiring and analyzing physiological, imaging, and device-performance data; maintaining complete study records; and communicating results to the research team. The Assistant will collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, surgeons, research staff, students, and external partners to translate prototypes toward clinically relevant validation.
About the Work Unit:
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University advances research and education in biomedical devices, mechatronics and control, advanced manufacturing, rehabilitation engineering, surgical and soft robotics, nanoscience, and aerospace engineering. The Dong Lab develops innovative medical devices and robotic technologies for challenging clinical applications. This position will support the lab's airway-device program by connecting engineering design with rigorous preclinical evaluation in close partnership with veterinary and clinical collaborators.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
The Research Assistant will perform complex technical and operational duties to ensure safe, reproducible, and well-documented preclinical testing. Responsibilities include:
  • Preclinical Study Planning: translate research objectives into testable endpoints, study plans, acceptance criteria, schedules, equipment lists, and data-collection procedures for small- and large-animal studies.
  • Animal Study Coordination:
    • Coordinate small-animal studies and large-animal studies with veterinary staff, clinical collaborators, core facilities, and the principal investigator.

Support study activities only under current IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, required training, and direction from qualified veterinary or clinical personnel.
  • Prepare procedure rooms, devices, sterile supplies, airway models, imaging systems, sensors, ventilation-related equipment, and emergency backup equipment before each study.
    • Assist with airway-device placement and evaluation, bronchoscopy or other imaging workflows, physiologic monitoring, specimen handling, and post-procedure activities within the individual's training and authorized role.
  • Medical Device Engineering and Testing: design or modify prototypes, fixtures, delivery systems, and instrumentation; develop bench and ex vivo tests that inform animal studies; troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, fluidic, imaging, and software interfaces; and document device configuration and verification results.
  • Data, Quality, and Documentation: acquire synchronized device, imaging, video, and physiological data; maintain traceable study records; analyze results using appropriate statistical and engineering methods; prepare figures, reports, presentations, and protocol materials; and contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, manuscripts, grant reports, and regulatory-facing documentation.

Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the lab faculty member, Dr. Xiaoguang Dong.
Education and Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required; a master's degree is preferred.

Experience and Skills:
  • At least 1 year of work experience is preferred, but not required so long as the list of requirements below can be met.
  • Knowledge of animal-research compliance, IACUC protocols, biosafety, sterile technique, and humane study practices is required or must be acquired through Vanderbilt training before independent work.
  • Ability to develop clear test methods, follow controlled procedures, maintain accurate records, and troubleshoot complex experiments is required.
  • Proficiency with data analysis and technical documentation is required; experience with MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, ImageJ, CAD, or equivalent engineering tools is preferred.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, veterinarians, clinicians, students, and external partners are required.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, critical-thinking, safety-awareness, and problem-solving skills are necessary.
  • Ability to work flexibly around scheduled animal procedures, including occasional early mornings, evenings, or extended study days, is required.
  • Demonstrated experience with medical-device development, experimental engineering, or preclinical research is required; experience with both small- and large-animal studies is strongly preferred.
  • Experience preparing and operating test instrumentation, sensors, imaging systems, data-acquisition hardware, and custom mechanical or mechatronic prototypes is preferred.
  • Experience with airway procedures, bronchoscopy, intubation, ventilation, anesthesia monitoring, or respiratory physiology in a research or clinical environment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience in an academic research, regulated product-development, or quality-managed laboratory setting is preferred.

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Vanderbilt University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply