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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

... Assistant Anticipated Hiring Range $55,000 - $58,000 Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm ... Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands ...

Research Technician

Raleigh, NC

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Coordinate hourly and graduate research assistant's project activities. You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this ...

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Graduate Research Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$6

$18

$30

How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Raleigh, NC is $18.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $22.40 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Research jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Graduate Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Graduate Research Assistant job openings:
Research Assistant

$55K - $58K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

407th of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194723EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Research Assistant
Anticipated Hiring Range
$55,000 - $58,000
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. . As the project involves working with live insects it may be necessary to work outside regular hours as needed.
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
Entomology and Plant Pathology
About the Department
As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University is composed of over 40 faculty that direct a varied portfolio of programs in teaching, research, and extension. Collectively, these strengths not only serve our clientele and our science but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training that can be tailored to the specific career interests of the student, irrespective of whether they prefer training in the basic sciences or are preparing for a career in extension. Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands-on learning opportunities using the latest technologies. Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand Mycological Herbarium, Micropropagation and Repository Unit, Structural Pest Management Training Facility, an Insect Museum with 1.9 million vouchered insects, and the Center for Integrated Fungal Research. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences houses 12 Academic departments with 294faculty, 2,891 undergraduate students and 899 graduate students. The College is home to 18 research stations strategically located across the state that enhances our interactions with our farmers, stakeholders, and industry partners.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Propositionand learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Research Assistant will support a multidisciplinary research program focused on the development of CRISPR-based genetic control technologies for the New World screwworm and related blowfly species. This includes work on gene drive systems and precision-guided sterile insect techniques (pgSIT). The position integrates laboratory operations, insect colony management, biosafety compliance, and hands-on experimental support for genetic and molecular studies.
Duties Include:
  • Maintain fly stocks and provide staff with biological material at different stages of development when requested.
  • Support postdoctoral fellows by performing blow fly crosses, examining the progeny and setting additional crosses with selected offspring.
  • Purchase supplies.
  • Autoclaving insect waste.
  • Supervise undergraduate students who support insect rearing.

Other Responsibilities
  • Responsible for ensuring that all safety/biosafety requirements are met.
  • Update safety plan and SOP for BUA as needed.

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Relevant Master's degree OR
  • Relevant Bachelor's degree and 3 or more years of relevant experience, or relevant independent experience and education

Other Required Qualifications
  • Ability to:
    • Operate microscopes
    • Use pipette man
    • Work with live insects in cages
    • Operate autoclave

Preferred Qualifications
  • MS in entomology or related discipline

Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • Valid NC Driver's License

Valid NC Driver's License required
Yes
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
06/17/2026
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00112139
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.00
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID
111801 - Entomology and Plant Pathology
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887