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Graduate Lab Assistant Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

This position will assist graduate students and the lab manager with sample tracking, processing of blood, eggshell, skin, fin clips, and swab samples, and DNA extractions for genotyping and ...

This position will assist graduate students and the lab manager with sample tracking, processing of blood, eggshell, skin, fin clips, and swab samples, and DNA extractions for genotyping and ...

High School graduate or GED MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: One (1) year of experience as a phlebotomist, laboratory processor or laboratory assistant. Current enrollment in a Medical Technologist or ...

High School graduate or GED MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: One (1) year of experience as a phlebotomist, laboratory processor or laboratory assistant. Current enrollment in a Medical Technologist or ...

High School graduate or GED MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: One (1) year of experience as a phlebotomist, laboratory processor or laboratory assistant. Current enrollment in a Medical Technologist or ...

Student Assistant

Athens, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... 000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges ... the Fountain Lab at the UGA Griffin Campus to assist in performing mycotoxin and postharvest ...

Medical Assistant (CMA/EMT/LPN)

Monroe, GA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

... lab work, X-rays, and minor procedures. • Enjoy a structured schedule with three 12-hour shifts ... What We're Looking For • Graduate of an accredited Medical Assistant program (certification ...

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Graduate Lab Assistant information

See Athens, GA salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do graduate lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate lab assistant in Athens, GA is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate lab assistant?

Graduate lab assistants are graduate students who support professors and researchers in academic or research laboratories. Their responsibilities typically include preparing laboratory materials, assisting with experiments, maintaining equipment, and sometimes helping undergraduate students with lab work. They may also collect and analyze data, keep detailed records, and ensure that safety protocols are followed. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in scientific research and laboratory management, which is beneficial for their academic and career development.

What does a graduate lab assistant do?

As a Graduate Lab Assistant, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and organizational tasks each day. These often include preparing materials and equipment for experiments, assisting with data collection and analysis, maintaining laboratory cleanliness and safety standards, and supporting researchers or instructors with ongoing projects. You may also be responsible for inventory management and occasionally training new students on laboratory protocols. The role offers valuable exposure to advanced lab techniques and fosters close collaboration with faculty and research teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate lab assistant?

To thrive as a Graduate Lab Assistant, you need a solid background in laboratory techniques, scientific research methods, and relevant coursework in your field of study. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and data analysis software such as Excel or specialized scientific tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, maintain lab safety, and support successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Graduate Lab Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Lab AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, relevant field of study
Work EnvironmentUniversity labs, academic settingsResearch institutions, labs, or university departments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, academic or industry research
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Graduate Lab Assistant and a Research Intern lies in their educational status and scope of work. Graduate Lab Assistants are typically enrolled graduate students working within university labs, focusing on supporting ongoing research. Research Interns may be undergraduate or graduate students gaining practical experience in research settings, often for a limited period. Both roles involve assisting with experiments and data collection but differ mainly in their educational level and specific responsibilities.

Can you get a graduate lab assistant job with no experience?

Graduate lab assistant positions often do not require extensive prior experience, as they typically provide on-the-job training. However, having relevant coursework, basic laboratory skills, or familiarity with scientific tools can improve chances of hiring. Employers may also look for strong organizational skills and the ability to follow safety protocols.

What qualifications do I need to be a graduate lab assistant?

To become a graduate lab assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a relevant graduate program and have a strong background in the subject area, such as biology, chemistry, or engineering. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with lab equipment; some positions may also require prior research experience or certifications in safety procedures. Educational requirements usually include maintaining a minimum GPA and meeting any specific program prerequisites.

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Graduate Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Graduate Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Lab Assistant job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,664 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Molecular Plant Nematology Lab Student Assistant - Mitchum Lab

Athens, GA • On-site

University of Georgia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

$14/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of Georgia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 633 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details

Position Details

Posting Number

G/R26294P

Working Title

Molecular Plant Nematology Lab Student Assistant - Mitchum Lab

Department

CAES-Applied Genetic Tech Ctr

About the University of Georgia

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department

College/Unit/Department website

Employment Type

Employee

Additional Schedule Information

Advertised Salary

$14.00 per hour

Anticipated Start Date

08/15/2025

Posting Date

07/30/2025

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

If interested, please make contact by email with subject line, MOLECULAR NEMATOLOGY LAB ASSISTANT: Send an email to Melissa Mitchum, Professor, Department of Plant Pathology and Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics, melissa.mitchum@uga.edu. Please include a statement of interest, resume including contact information for three references, and a current unofficial transcript.

Location of Vacancy

Athens Area

EOO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Duties/Responsibilities

Duties/Responsibilities

Participate in lab experimentation, collection and summary of data, in support of molecular plant-nematode interaction research activities.

Percentage of time

40

Duties/Responsibilities

Assisting with sample collection, media preparation, and other lab protocols.

Percentage of time

20

Duties/Responsibilities

Assist with lab maintenance and chores, including dishwashing and autoclaving, stocking supplies, cleaning the lab, disposing of biohazardous materials.

Percentage of time

30

Duties/Responsibilities

Assist with plant and/or pathogen care by watering of plants in greenhouses and growth chambers, including short periods on a rotational basis during assigned weekends.

Percentage of time

10

Position Details

Position Information

Classification Title

Student Assistant

FLSA

Non-Exempt

UGA Job Code

FTE

.50

Minimum Qualifications

Position Summary

The Molecular Plant Nematology Lab Assistant position will support laboratory and greenhouse research related to plant diseases and the biology of their causal agents under the direction of a faculty member and/or lab manager/post-docs/graduate students. Duties include, but are not limited to, participation in lab experimentation, collection and summary of data, in support of molecular plant-nematode interaction research activities; assisting with plant and/or pathogen care by watering of plants in greenhouses and growth chambers, including short periods on a rotational basis during assigned weekends; assisting with sample collection, media preparation, and other lab protocols; assisting with lab maintenance and chores, including dishwashing and autoclaving, stocking supplies, cleaning the lab, disposing of biohazardous materials.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position

Prior coursework and experience working in a laboratory setting is desirable, but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Interest molecular/cellular aspects of plant science, plant pathology, plant biology, and/or biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field who is self-motivated, organized, detail-oriented, enthusiastic and eager to learn, manages time well, and is reliable. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required. Prior coursework and experience working in a laboratory setting is desirable, but not required.

Physical Demands

Minimal lifting/bending in the normal operations of a typical office/lab environment.

Is this a Position of Trust?

Yes

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?

No

Does this position require a P-Card?

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?

No

Is driving a requirement of this position?

No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)

Yes

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Contact Information

Recruitment Contact

Contact Details

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name

Melissa Mitchum

Recruitment Contact Email

Melissa. Mitchum@uga.edu

Recruitment Contact Phone

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

  • Resume/CV

Optional Documents

  • Cover Letter
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • List of References with Contact Information

What University Of Georgia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Georgia logo

About University of Georgia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education. The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 40,000 students including over 30,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 18 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Athens, GA, US

Year founded

1785