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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Student Strategic Research Assistant

Tempe, AZ

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Student Strategic Research Assistant The Student Strategic Research Assistant is a student worker ... A current undergraduate or graduate student at Arizona State University. Student must be willing to ...

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Graduate Research Assistant information

See Arizona salary details

$5

$18

$29

How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Arizona is $18.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $21.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectGraduate Research AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsGraduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) often requiredUndergraduate or graduate students, less formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institution, often part of a universityResearch labs, industry, or academic settings, usually temporary
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesCorporations, research firms, academic labs

In summary, a Graduate Research Assistant typically holds a graduate degree and works within academic or research institutions, focusing on long-term research projects. In contrast, a Research Intern is often a student or early-career individual gaining practical experience, usually on a temporary basis in various research settings.

How much do GTAs get paid?

Graduate Research Assistants (GTAs) typically receive stipends that range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on the institution, field of study, and location. In addition to stipends, they often receive tuition waivers or stipends for teaching or research duties performed during the academic year or summer.

What are some common challenges faced by Graduate Research Assistants when balancing research projects with coursework?

Graduate Research Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, including research tasks, coursework, and sometimes teaching duties. Time management is a frequent challenge, as research projects may have unpredictable workloads or urgent deadlines that overlap with academic requirements. Clear communication with your advisor and setting realistic expectations can help manage these demands. Many assistants find that developing strong organizational skills and seeking support from peers or mentors aids in maintaining a healthy balance between research and academic obligations.

Can you be a research assistant after graduation?

A graduate research assistant position is typically tied to ongoing academic projects and may require enrollment in a graduate program. After graduation, individuals can often transition to research roles in industry or pursue postdoctoral positions, but the specific title of 'research assistant' is less common outside academic settings. Skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research tools remain valuable in related roles.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Research Assistant, you need a solid academic background in your field, strong analytical skills, and experience with research methodologies. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), literature databases, and possibly laboratory equipment is often required. Excellent organization, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set candidates apart in collaborative research environments. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, meeting project deadlines, and contributing effectively to academic teams.

How hard is it to get a graduate assistantship?

Securing a graduate research assistantship typically depends on academic performance, relevant skills, and research experience. Competitive applicants often have strong GPAs, relevant coursework, and demonstrate research or technical abilities. The application process may include interviews and requires a proactive approach to faculty research opportunities.

What are Graduate Research Assistants?

Graduate Research Assistants (GRAs) are graduate students who work under the supervision of faculty members to assist with academic research projects. Their responsibilities can include data collection, literature reviews, conducting experiments, analyzing results, and helping to prepare research publications or presentations. These positions often provide students with hands-on experience in their field of study and may offer a stipend or tuition waiver as compensation. GRAs play a crucial role in advancing university research while developing skills for future academic or professional careers.

What do graduate research assistants do?

Graduate research assistants support faculty or research teams by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, reviewing literature, and preparing reports or presentations. They often work in laboratories or academic settings, using tools like statistical software and research methodologies, and may assist with grant writing or project management.
More about Graduate Research Assistant jobs
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What job categories do people searching Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Graduate Research Assistant jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Graduate Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,461 per year, or $18 per hour.

Graduate Research Appointment - Ramos Lab

Mayo Clinic

Phoenix, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 692 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 885 rated healthcare providers


Job description


The Graduate Research Appointment (GRA) is a post-baccalaureate appointment for participants with an interest in biomedical research. The primary purpose is to provide a post-baccalaureate laboratory research experience that applies skills in science, technology, engineering or math to biomedical research including basic science or translational research.  GRA participants will have the opportunity to participate in selected graduate classes and seminars while working in this role.

Additional Information:

Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) - Ramos Laboratory

Department of Medicine and Immunology | Mayo Clinic Arizona

About the Lab - 

The Ramos Laboratory studies how the intestinal lining senses and responds to inflammation. We work at the intersection of mucosal immunology, intestinal stem cell biology, and epigenetic regulation (using patient-derived organoids, single-cell transcriptomics, and microfluidic platforms) to understand the biology underlying Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. We are based at Mayo Clinic Arizona and closely integrated with a broader network of collaborators across the country.

The Position -

We are looking for a college graduate planning to pursue graduate education (including MD, MD-PhD, or PhD programs) to join the lab as a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA). This is a full-time (40 hours/week), one-year post-baccalaureate research position through the Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences with the possibility of a one-year extension. You will work on active projects alongside graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, with direct faculty mentorship. The goal is for you to leave with real research experience, a strong publication or presentation record, and a clearer scientific identity heading into your next step.

Responsibilities -

  • Design and carry out experiments in intestinal epithelial biology and mucosal immunology
  • Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and departmental seminars
  • Present your work internally and at research forums
  • Engage with career development and networking resources through Mayo Clinic Graduate School

What We Are Looking For -

  • Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, bioengineering, or a related field
  • Plans to pursue graduate education in a biomedical field
  • Prior laboratory experience is expected; hands-on work with cell culture (particularly epithelial cells, organoids or T cells) is a plus
  • Experience with microfluidic devices, immune cell assays, or flow cytometry is a plus
  • Familiarity with R or Python is a plus
  • Someone who takes ownership of their work and is genuinely curious about the science

This vacancy is not eligible for sponsorship. We will not sponsor or transfer visas for this position. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.

This is a one-year limited tenure position that may have the possibility of a one-year extension. 

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law".  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.


Bachelor's degree with a strong background in science, technology, engineering, or math.  Authorization to work and remain in the United States, without necessity for Mayo Clinic sponsorship now, or in the future (for example, be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident, refugee or asylee. 

Students that do not meet these criteria do not qualify.

  • Applicants who are currently in Graduate or Medical School are not eligible.
  • Eligibility of applicants with advanced degrees above BA or BS depend on the specific degree

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919