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

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 ...

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 ...

Research Assistant I

Cambridge, MA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... The research assistant may work on an independent project, but within specific guidelines. Strong ...

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... The research assistant may work on an independent project, but within specific guidelines. Strong ...

Research Assistant I

Cambridge, MA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... Additionally, the employee will assist with other tasks that support the operation of the overall ...

Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division ... Additionally, the employee will assist with other tasks that support the operation of the overall ...

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 ...

Research Assistant I Lab

Cambridge, MA

$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 ...

Collaborate with scientists and engineers on research and development activities. * Assist with ... Laboratory experience through coursework, undergraduate research, graduate research, or internships ...

Collaborate with scientists and engineers on research and development activities. * Assist with ... Laboratory experience through coursework, undergraduate research, graduate research, or internships ...

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Graduate Research Assistant information

See Boston, MA salary details

$6

$21

$34

How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Boston, MA is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $25.14 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA?

For Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Graduate Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Graduate Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,791 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

RESEARCH ASSISTANT, School of Dental Medicine, Global and Population Health

Boston University

Boston, MA • On-site

$17.49 - $22.08/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Boston University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

213th of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description


The position will work on an NIH-funded clinical trial that aims to test two complementary interventions, rapid HIV testing in community health center dental clinics and interactive text messaging to reduce HIV risk. The position will involve recruitment, screening, and enrollment of study participants, conducting the clinic-based intervention with participants, data tracking and management, preparation of reports, acting as liaison with technology partners, and general office tasks. The position may also help coordinate research team and stakeholder meetings. The position is also responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the Office of Global and Population Health. This position will assist in preparing grant applications and reports for research related purposes, and compiling information for the Annual Report. The position requires an adaptable and flexible team player. In addition, the Research Assistant is responsible for data entry, paperwork, and the maintenance of databases for multiple international research projects.
Required Skills
A bachelor's degree and 1-3 years of relevant experience are required. Proficiency in written and spoken Spanish is strongly preferred to effectively communicate with clients.
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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About Boston University

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Boston University is an international, comprehensive, private research university, committed to educating students to be reflective, resourceful individuals ready to live, adapt, and lead in an interconnected world. Boston University is committed to generating new knowledge to benefit society. We remain dedicated to our founding principles: that higher education should be accessible to all and that research, scholarship, artistic creation, and professional practice should be conducted in the service of the wider community—local and international. These principles endure in the University’s insistence on the value of diversity, in its tradition and standards of excellence, and in its dynamic engagement with the City of Boston and the world. Boston University comprises a remarkable range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs built on a strong foundation of the liberal arts and sciences. With the support and oversight of the Board of Trustees, the University, through our faculty, continually innovates in education and research to ensure that we meet the needs of students and an ever-changing world.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1839

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