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Government Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position will support project teams in completion of commercial and government clinical ... Apply basic clinical research methodologies to meet protocol and regulatory requirements. Assist in ...

Research Assistant

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

$57K - $60K/yr

This position will support project teams in completion of commercial and government clinical ... clinical research methodologies to meet protocol and regulatory requirements. • Assist in the ...

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET ... Experience supporting Department of Defense, Federal Government, or higher education research ...

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET ... Experience supporting Department of Defense, Federal Government, or higher education research ...

Research Assistant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... government partnerships that address health, security, economic and societal concerns locally and ... Coordinates research activities of graduate students, fellows, assistants and other employees.

Showing results 21-40

Government Research Assistant information

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$6

$19

$31

How much do government research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for government research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a government research assistant do?

A Government Research Assistant supports research projects within government agencies by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data relevant to public policy, programs, or legislative initiatives. They assist in preparing reports, conducting literature reviews, and ensuring data accuracy for senior researchers or policymakers. Their work helps inform decision-making and contributes to the development and evaluation of government policies and programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree such as in political science, public policy, or a related field. Proficiency in data analysis software (like SPSS or Excel), familiarity with research databases, and sometimes government clearance are often required. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently or in teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, reliable research that informs critical government decisions and policy development.

What are the typical challenges faced by a government research assistant when working on multi-agency projects?

As a Government Research Assistant, collaborating on multi-agency projects often presents challenges such as coordinating data sharing, adhering to varying protocols, and managing competing priorities among stakeholders. Navigating differing organizational cultures and expectations requires strong communication and adaptability. Proactively clarifying roles, maintaining thorough documentation, and building relationships across teams can help ensure project goals are met efficiently and with high-quality results.

What is the difference between Government Research Assistant vs University Research Assistant?

AspectGovernment Research AssistantUniversity Research Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field; some roles may prefer or require a master's degreeUsually requires a bachelor's degree; advanced roles may need a master's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, research labs, policy departmentsUniversities, academic labs, college campuses
Employer & IndustryGovernment sector, public research institutionsAcademic institutions, universities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles in government vs academic settingsOften compared for research support roles in universities

While both roles involve supporting research projects, Government Research Assistants typically work within government agencies focusing on policy, public health, or environmental studies, whereas University Research Assistants support academic research, often assisting professors and students in university labs. The choice depends on the preferred work environment and career goals in public service or academia.

Do government research assistants get paid a lot?

Government research assistants typically earn a moderate salary that varies based on experience, education, and location. Salaries are often competitive with other entry-level research roles and may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How hard is it to get a job as a government research assistant?

Securing a government research assistant position typically requires relevant educational qualifications, such as a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field, and strong research skills. Competition can be high, and candidates often need to demonstrate experience with data analysis, report writing, or specific tools like statistical software. Having a good understanding of government procedures and security clearances may also be beneficial.

How much does a government research assistant get paid?

The average salary for a government research assistant ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and agency. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced skills or specialized knowledge can earn higher salaries. Benefits often include health insurance and retirement plans, and the role typically requires strong research and analytical skills.

What qualifications do I need to be a government research assistant?

To become a government research assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as public policy, social sciences, or statistics. Strong research skills, proficiency with data analysis tools, and attention to detail are also important; some positions may require familiarity with specific software or security clearances.

What cities are hiring for Government Research Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Government Research Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Government Research Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Government Research Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Government Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Research Instructor, Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, Research Profess...

East Carolina University

Greenville, NC

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


East Carolina University rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

411th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Job Title Research Instructor, Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, Research Professor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor Position Number 600237 Vacancy Open to All Candidates Department EHH BSOM Physiology Department Homepage https://physiology.ecu.edu/ Advertising Department PHYSIOLOGY Division ECU Health/BSOM Classification Title Research Instructor, Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, Research Professor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor Working Title Research Instructor, Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, Research Professor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor Number of Vacancies 4 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) 1.0 Full Time or Part Time Full Time Anticipated Recruitment Range. Salary offered may be outside of this range as impacted by budget, UNC salary administration, and/or candidate qualifications. Commensurate with Qualifications Position Location (City) Greenville Position Type Faculty (Teaching) Job Category Faculty (Teaching) Organizational Unit Overview
The Department of Physiology at the Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, is dedicated to advancing the understanding of physiology through excellence in education of medical and graduate students; to perform innovative and groundbreaking research in its related sub-disciplines; to promote and inspire discovery and learning that enhances patient care; and to contribute to the translation of scientific progress into clinical practice.
The Department of Physiology consists of full-time, 12-month state-funded faculty, research technicians, postdoctoral fellows, administrative staff, and students. The department delivers foundational instruction in integrative physiology to a wide range of learners, including medical, dental, nursing, and graduate students, and maintains a strong educational mission focused on preparing healthcare professionals and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of physiological systems. This foundation supports specialized clinical and research careers aimed at addressing functional aspects of human physiology and disease. The department's Ph.D. program in Biomedical Sciences provides rigorous, interdisciplinary training that prepares graduates for a variety of leadership roles in academia, research, government, industry, and medicine.
Job Duties
The Department of Physiology at the Brody School of Medicine (BSOM), East Carolina University (ECU), invites applications for open rank full-time, 12-month faculty positions, including at the rank of Research Instructor, Research Assistant Professor, Research Associate Professor, Research Professor (fixed-term, non-tenure track), and Assistant/Associate/Professor (tenure-track). Rank and track will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
  • Research instructor (fixed-term)- Teaching 5% (training technicians, undergraduate and graduate students, and junior research associates), service 5% (serve on student advisory committees as needed), research 90% (includes performing literature reviews; developing studies; experimental design; performing experiments; collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data; writing abstracts and manuscripts; presenting data at regional, national or international conferences; and writing grant proposals).
  • Research Assistant Professor (fixed-term) - Teaching 2-5% (training technicians and/or students), Service 5% (serve on student advisory committees as needed), and Research 90-93% (develop and establish an independent research program at ECU, disseminate research results through publications and presentations in national and international venues, secure extramural funding for their research program).
  • Research Associate Professor (fixed-term) - Teaching 5% (training technicians and/or mentor/advise trainees and/or students), Service 5% (serve on department level committees), and Research 90% (develop and establish an independent research program at ECU, disseminate research results through publications and presentations in national and international venues, secure extramural funding for their research program).
  • Research Professor (fixed-term) - Teaching 5-10% (training technicians and/or mentor/advise students and postdoctoral fellows), Service 5-10% (serve on department level and/or school level committees), and Research 80-90% (develop and establish an independent research program at ECU, disseminate research results through publications and presentations in national and international venues, secure extramural funding for their research program).
  • Assistant Professor (tenure-track) - Teaching 5% (teaching graduate course work and mentoring/advising students), service 5% (serve in departmental committees), research 90% (develop and establish an independent research program at ECU, disseminate research results through publications and presentations in national and international venues, secure extramural funding for their research program)
  • Associate Professor (tenure-track) - Teaching 20% (teach and/or be course director for graduate and medical courses, mentor/advise students), service 10% (serve in departmental and school committees), research 70% (establish their research program at ECU, disseminate research results through publications and presentations in national and international venues, secure extramural funding for their research program)
  • Professor (tenure-track) - Teaching 35% (teach and/or be course director for graduate and medical courses, mentor/advise students), service 20% (serve in departmental, school, and university committees), research 45% (establish their research program at ECU, disseminate research results through publications and presentations in national and international venues, secure extramural funding for their research program)

Research Environment:
State-of-the-art research facilities support research within the department and emphasize areas such as cardiovascular science, neuroscience, and cell physiology. Faculty members are engaged in both foundational and translational research and mentor/train medical, graduate, and professional students. Faculty within the Physiology Department collaborate extensively with colleagues across ECU and with external academic institutions, government entities, and industry partners. The department has a strong track record of interdisciplinary research and a consistent history of securing extramural funding.
Research instructors will join dynamic labs with distinguished and established research programs. Tenure-track positions will be supported by generous laboratory space, state salary support, and a competitive research start-up package. Applicants conducting high-impact research in any area of physiology are encouraged to apply.

Contingent upon the availability of funds
Minimum Education/Experience
A Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent in Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field. Relevant teaching experience along with the following:
  • A strong background in physiology and/or biomedical sciences.
  • Documented experience in teaching and/or mentoring students, conducting independent or collaborative research, and participating in departmental or professional service activities.
  • Record of contributing to research initiatives that complement or broaden a department's focus areas, as evidenced by publications, collaborations, or grant submissions.
  • For tenure-track (Assistant Professor) candidates: the ability to establish and maintain an independent, extramurally funded research program and a record of scholarly productivity as evidenced by high-quality, peer-reviewed publications.
  • For Associate Professor and Professor candidates: a record of extramural research funding, sustained scholarly productivity, and active participation in medical education.

All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation
None
Preferred Experience, Skills, Training/Education
  • Demonstrated research productivity and current or potential for extramural funding.

Special Instructions to Applicant
To apply, please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, a statement of teaching philosophy, and contact information for three references through ECU's online job application portal. At the time of employment, three original letters of reference, official transcripts, a criminal background check, and proper documentation of identity and employability are required. Please be aware that if selected for an interview, an automatic e-mail will be sent to the individuals entered by the applicant in the References Section of the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system. Letters of reference submitted via the PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system will be verified and considered towards meeting this requirement.
Additional Instructions to Applicant

In order to be considered for this position, applicants must complete a candidate profile online via the PeopleAdmin system and submit any requested documents. Additionally, applicants that possess the preferred education and experience must also possess the minimum education/experience, if applicable.

Unless otherwise identified in the applicable job posting and consistent with University policy, the University will principally employ individuals who reside in the State of North Carolina to the greatest extent practicable. As such, most positions at East Carolina University require employees to live and work in North Carolina (or live within a reasonable daily commuting distance from their duty station) after hire. Candidates should be prepared to relocate within a reasonable, agreed-upon time after an offer of employment has been made and accepted to meet this requirement.

Job Open Date 10/27/2025 Open Until Filled Yes Job Close Date - Positions will be posted until 11:59 p.m. EST on this date. If no closing date is indicated, the position may close at any time after the initial screening date. Initial Screening Begins 11/27/2025 Rank Level Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, Instructor Quick Link for Direct Access to Posting https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/postings/88586 Nondiscrimination Statement
East Carolina University is committed to workforce success and cultivating a culture of care for our employees. ECU prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment based on race/ethnicity, color, genetic information, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, political affiliation, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their protected veteran status or disability.
Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) should contact the ADA Coordinator at (252) 737-1018 (Voice/TTY) or ADA-Coordinator@ecu.edu.
Eligibility for Employment
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. ECU participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Department for People Operations, Success, and Opportunity at (252) 328-9847 or toll free at 1-866-489-1740 or send an email to employment@ecu.edu. Our office is available to provide assistance Monday-Friday from 8:00-5:00 EST.

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About East Carolina University

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ECU is the state’s leader and national trailblazer in distance education. Whether you want to finish what you started or start something new, East Carolina University offers more than 100 online degree and certificate programs in business, health care, education, technology, and other areas to give you the options you need to meet your objectives.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Greenville, NC, US

Year founded

1907