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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$53/hr

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and ... We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and ... We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant III

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... This Research Assistant works within the Ramanathan lab, alongside graduate students and ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant III

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$54/hr

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... This Research Assistant works within the Ramanathan lab, alongside graduate students and ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I Lab

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$52/hr

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... Job Summary: Full-time Research Assistant (RA) wanted for an exciting, largescale project in the ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I Lab

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... Job Summary: Full-time Research Assistant (RA) wanted for an exciting, largescale project in the ...

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Graduate Research Assistant information

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How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Boston, MA is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $25.05 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

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Graduate Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,673 per year, or $21 per hour.

Graduate Research Assistant

Massgeneralbrigham

Boston, MA

$20.16 - $29.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Mass General Brigham rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 348 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 894 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Site: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc.


Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.


Job Summary

Summary
Is a currently enrolled student in a graduate degree program in medicine, biological sciences, or related, and is working in a research lab.
This research is conducted independently under the supervision of the principal investigator and focuses on transplantation immunology. Research projects will prepare the incumbent to work fully independently at the department level and conduct original research in the future.
The research conducted and work performed are at least partially in fulfillment of the requirements of their degree program.
Does this position require Patient Care? No
Essential Functions
-Designs experiments and modifies techniques as necessary to meet research and/or experimental needs.
-Collects and records study data and maintains laboratory notebooks.
-Designs, executes research projects, and participates in large animal experiments and laboratory research.
-Synthesizes and interprets experimental data and performs data analysis using advanced statistical techniques.
-In collaboration with the PIs, drafts manuscripts and serves as a co-author on journal publications and presentations at professional conferences and scientific meetings.
-Interprets results, develops new investigative techniques, and, in collaboration with the PI, determines the most appropriate research direction.
-Participates and presents in Lab meetings and research seminars.
-Provides functional guidance to technical and animal care personnel involved in projects.
-Works safely within the laboratory environment and in performing work duties.
-Wears personal protective equipment as required.


Qualifications

Education
Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required
Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?
No
Licenses and Credentials
Experience
Current enrollment in a graduate degree program 0-1 year required
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Must be capable of performing and interpreting assay data related to the specific research lab.
- Must be self-motivated and able to work independently.
- Ability to work carefully, accurately, and consistently with instruction or protocol.
- Must be able to work safely and properly use protective equipment.
- Proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Internet searches.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.


Additional Job Details (if applicable)


Remote Type

Onsite


Work Location

60 Fenwood Road


Scheduled Weekly Hours

40


Employee Type

Regular


Work Shift

Day (United States of America)


Pay Range

$20.16 - $29.01/Hourly


Grade

5


At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience if applicable, education, certifications and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package. In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable and recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite you to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of your potential compensation and benefits package.


EEO Statement:

2200 The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran's Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.


Mass General Brigham Competency Framework

At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership "looks like" by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.

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