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Data Science Research Assistant Jobs in California

... science, and epidemiology. Based in Rwanda and the USA, we've worked in 18 countries to date on ... Contribute to proposal writing and provide technical review as needed Support data analysis * Apply ...

... science, and epidemiology. Based in Rwanda and the USA, we've worked in 18 countries to date on ... Contribute to proposal writing and provide technical review as needed Support data analysis * Apply ...

Research Assistant

Seeley, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY: N/A PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES ... Performs a variety of data management procedures (e.g., data entry, producing basic reports, data ...

Data Science Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$121K - $154K/yr

... * Assist in prototyping AI agents and conversational interfaces that allow analysts to query data ... building research prototypes and capabilities. * Contribute to technical reports, internal ...

Showing results 41-60

Data Science Research Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$21

$31

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for data science research assistant in California is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a data science research assistant do?

A Data Science Research Assistant supports research projects by gathering, cleaning, and analyzing data using statistical and computational techniques. They assist senior researchers with designing experiments, developing models, and interpreting results. Typical tasks include data preprocessing, coding in languages like Python or R, literature reviews, and creating visualizations to summarize findings. Their work helps advance scientific knowledge and inform decision-making based on data-driven insights.

What is the difference between Data Science Research Assistant vs Data Analyst?

AspectData Science Research AssistantData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, or related fieldBachelor's or higher in Data Analysis, Statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or research-focused organizationsBusiness settings, corporate offices, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesCorporations, marketing firms, finance, healthcare
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Data Science Research Assistants typically focus on supporting research projects through data collection, analysis, and modeling in academic or research settings. Data Analysts primarily interpret data to help organizations make business decisions. While both roles require strong analytical skills and knowledge of data tools, the research assistant role emphasizes academic research and experimentation, whereas data analysts focus on business insights and reporting.

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

To thrive as a Data Science Research Assistant, you need a strong background in statistics, machine learning, and programming (often with a degree in computer science, statistics, or related fields). Familiarity with tools such as Python, R, Jupyter Notebooks, and data visualization libraries as well as experience with version control systems like Git is typical, and coursework or certifications in data science can be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills are essential to effectively analyze data, interpret results, and collaborate with research teams. These skills and qualities are critical for producing reliable insights, supporting research objectives, and ensuring the integrity of data-driven projects.

How does a data science research assistant typically collaborate with other team members during a research project?

Data Science Research Assistants frequently work alongside data scientists, research leads, and subject matter experts to support ongoing research. Their responsibilities often include cleaning and preprocessing data, performing exploratory analyses, and implementing models. Regular collaboration occurs through team meetings, code reviews, and sharing findings, ensuring alignment with project goals. Open communication and adaptability are essential, as priorities and datasets can shift based on project needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Data Science Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Data Science Research jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Data Science Research Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Data Science Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Science Research Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,974 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Life Science Research Professional 2

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Stanford University is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 2 to perform more complex functions and activities involved in defined research projects, and independently conduct a portion of the research project(s).

Duties include:

  • Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s). Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to principal investigator. 
  • Independently conduct complex (lab and/or field) experiments to gather data for a portion of a major research project. 
  • Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols. 
  • Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required. 
  • Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
  • Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols. 
  • Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings. Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences. 
  • Oversee supply and equipment budget under supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
  • Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings. 
  • Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
  • Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.

*- Other duties may also be assigned
 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Preferably a Doctorate or Master's degree, or a minimum of two years applicable experience, or combination of advanced education and experience in an applicable science.
  • Comprehensive understanding and working knowledge of basic biomedical sciences including chemistry biochemistry, molecular biology, anatomy and physiology.
  • Demonstrated technical ability in computer-aided design, 3D-printing, biomechanical testing, immunological assay, histochemistry, cell culture, microscopy, PCR, SDS-PAGE, Western botting and detection, evaluation of cell surface marker expression data and advanced data analysis using various software tools.
  • Developing project management skills.
  • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills, 
  • Advanced abilities to analyze data using MATLAB, Python, Excel, and statistical software.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):  

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree in a related scientific field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

  • Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles. 
  • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
  • Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential. 
  • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

  • Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds. 
  • Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts. 
  • Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls. 
  • Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
  • Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
  • Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
  • May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
  • Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. 
  • Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator. 
  • May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:

  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $85,376 to $99,581 per annum. 
Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Information
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Job Code: 4952
  • Employee Status: Regular
  • Grade: G
  • Requisition ID: 109263
  • Work Arrangement : On Site

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