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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Further details include managing the lab web page and calendar, training and supervising undergraduate research assistants, and supporting graduate and honors students in data collection and analysis.

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Further details include managing the lab web page and calendar, training and supervising undergraduate research assistants, and supporting graduate and honors students in data collection and analysis.

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

SUMMARY: The Research Assistant supports laboratory-based brain tumor research within the ... graduate study. Experience should include hands-on work with cell culture techniques, basic ...

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

SUMMARY The Research Assistant supports laboratory-based brain tumor research within the Department ... graduate study. Experience should include hands-on work with cell culture techniques, basic ...

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Graduate Research Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$6

$18

$30

How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Rhode Island is $18.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $22.60 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.
More about Graduate Research Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Research jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Rhode Island?

For Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Graduate Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Graduate Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 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 $39,368 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Research Assistant

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Brown University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

168th of 623 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description:

This position will manage and contribute to Dave Sobel's research on children's causal reasoning developing social cognition, parent-child interaction and learning. The Research Assistant will participate in all facets of the research program.

The incumbent will develop and implement study materials, help in design of online and lab experiments, recruit and research participants, schedule and test participants, monitor human subject compliance, program and manage on-line experiments through Qualtrics, and other software environments, operate and manage the lab's computer systems and apparatus for reach tracking. Further details include managing the lab web page and calendar, training and supervising undergraduate research assistants, and supporting graduate and honors students in data collection and analysis.

This is a 100% fixed-term position, renewable annually dependent on grant funding/research and satisfactory work performance.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Education or a related field is required

  • 1-2 years of related research experience working with children (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered)

  • Familiarity with Qualtrics and statistical programming such as SPSS, R is necessary. Familiarity with Matlab or other programming languages (e.g., Python, C++) is a plus.

  • Previous experience with developing experimental stimuli, design, planning and execution of empirical studies

  • Expertise in data analysis, presentation, and reporting.

  • Knowledge of research in cognitive development broadly construed.

Applicants must submit a cover letter and CV/resume.

Why Brown?

Brown University is a leading research university that is distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff are driven by the idea that their work will impact the world.

Brown University offers flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break, and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts, and more. Read more about the benefits of working at Brown here.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

Benefits of Working at Brown:

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

Recruiting Start Date:

2026-08-03

Job Posting Title:

Research Assistant

Department:

Department of Cognitive and Psychological Sciences

Grade:

Grade 8

Worker Type:

Employee

Worker Sub-Type:

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Position Work Location:

Onsite


Submission Guidelines:

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.


Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.


Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.


This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement:

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.


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