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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

General Motors

Design Release Engineer

Pontiac, MI · Hybrid

$40 - $45.75/hr

... Graduate Research Assistant, or related role. OR Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field, and three (3) years of experience as a ...

General Motors

Design Release Engineer

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$40 - $45.75/hr

... Graduate Research Assistant, or related role. OR Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field, and three (3) years of experience as a ...

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How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Michigan is $16.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate research assistant?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a graduate research assistant?

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.

What challenges do graduate research assistants face 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.

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.

Can you be a graduate research assistant with a master's degree?

Yes, a master's degree is often sufficient to qualify for a graduate research assistant position, which typically requires strong research skills, familiarity with relevant tools, and academic coursework. Some positions may prefer or require additional qualifications such as a related bachelor's degree or specific technical expertise.

Is being a graduate research assistant worth it?

A graduate research assistant role provides valuable research experience, skills in data analysis and academic writing, and networking opportunities within a university environment. However, it often involves low pay and a demanding schedule, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.
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Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,038 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Assistant Research Technician

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Van Andel Institute
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Van Andel Instituteexternal

$35K - $36K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.
The lab of Worden lab Ph.D., within the Department of Structural Biology, is seeking to hire a full time Assistant Research Technician to join the research team. The designated position will depend on the education and experience of the candidate. Dr. Worden's lab employs molecular biology, biochemistry, and structural biology approaches to investigate fundamental mechanisms of gene regulation and bacterial pathogenesis.
In this role as an Assistant Research Technician, you will:
  • Design and execute molecular cloning experiments
  • Design and execute protein purification experiments
  • Prepare and image protein samples in cryo-EM experiments
  • Mentor and train research trainees on experimental techniques and protocols
  • Participate in writing publications and grant applications

Competitive applicants will possess a B.A. degree and preferably more than one year of experience, in a related field.
The ideal candidate should possess the following characteristics:
  • A self-driven and hard-working with a strong curiosity about basic science
  • A highly organized multi-tasker who pays attention to detail and values research integrity
  • A collegial team member with the ability to interact effectively and cordially with colleagues
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Familiar with bacterial and eukaryotic protein expression systems
  • Experience in protein purification and molecular cloning and cell culture

EXPECTATIONS
The following expectations should be met within the first 3 months.
  • 1-3 months - Develop a solid understanding of lab projects and background, develop familiarity with lab techniques and approaches. Learn institutional systems for daily lab operations including safety, ordering, inventories, and similar.
  • 3-6 months - Take leadership role in lab project coordination, experimental design and execution, assist with training new lab members, serve as a technical resource for other research staff.

COMPENSATION and BENEFITS
All fulltime employees of Van Andel Institute are eligible for benefits, effective Day One! This is a salaried position, which will be based on your experience and skills.
HOW TO APPLY
If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply today!
  • A cover letter describing your research interests, experience, and how you might contribute to research in the Hong Li Lab.
  • An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae.
  • Names of 2 individuals who have agreed to act as references along with their contact details.

Please contact Natalie Hartford at Natalie.Hartford@vai.org for further information or questions, or if you have any difficulty with the application process.
About Van Andel Institute
Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute's scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K-12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.
Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Equal Opportunity employer.
As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines.
About Grand Rapids, MI
Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It's fun affordable and family-friendly.
Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.

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