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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Work directly with Principal Investigators, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and laboratory ... assist with laboratory-wide EH&S compliance (5%) Assist with managing undergraduate research ...

... graduate students in research activities Outreach and Community Engagement (5%) * Promote ... * Assist with departmental operations as needed Required Qualifications To be considered for this ...

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Document site progress and escalate risks or issues to the clinical team * Assist in tracking site ... A graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or equivalent, or a qualified RN * Eligible to ...

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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 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Seattle, WA is $21.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $26.25 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 popular job titles related to Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA? For Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Graduate Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Graduate Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,748 per year, or $22 per hour.

Research Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology

University of Washington

Seattle, WA • On-site

$6.6K - $7.5K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


University Of Washington School Of Medicine rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

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Job description

Description
The Department of Microbiology at the University of Washington invites applications for a research faculty position at the rank of Research Assistant Professor to perform research focused on bacterial cell biology and physiology. Areas of interest include mechanisms of bacterial immunity to viruses and mobile genetic elements, stress response pathways, signaling, antibiotic mechanisms of action, and determinants of phage susceptibility and resistance in clinically relevant bacteria.
The successful candidate will join a vibrant and collaborative research community and will have opportunities to interact with University of Washington investigators studying microbial pathogenesis, host-microbe interactions, and the development of innovative antimicrobial strategies. We particularly encourage applicants whose work integrates genetic, biochemical, and/or systems-level approaches to understand how bacteria respond to environmental stress and antibiotic challenge.
The position is a full-time, twelve-month (i.e., year-round), 5-year renewable term appointment in the School of Medicine. The anticipated start date is winter 2026. This position is supported by grant and other non-state funding sources. The base full-time equivalent salary range for this position will be $6,666-$7,500 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.
The successful candidate is expected to lead innovative and impactful research and to contribute to advancing our understanding of fundamental bacterial processes that inform new approaches to combat antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease.
We seek applicants who demonstrate commitment to excellence in research and service in a diverse and inclusive academic community
Qualifications
  • Applicants must have earned a PhD in Microbiology or a related field (or foreign equivalent) by the date of appointment. An MD or foreign equivalent is also acceptable.
  • Applicants must have a strong record of graduate research.
  • Applicants must have at least one year of postdoctoral experience and evidence of scholarly productivity through publications.

Application Instructions
To ensure full consideration of your application, please submit all materials no later than July 20. Priority will be given to those applications received by July 14. Applications will only be accepted via Interfolio. The position will remain open until filled.
Applications should include the following materials:
  1. - a cover letter of no more than 2 pages detailing your interest in the position, relevant qualifications, and experiences

  1. - a curriculum vitae

  1. - research statement

Applicants should articulate how their past experiences and/or future plans in research, teaching, mentoring, patient care, and/or service promotes a sense of belonging and fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Please also include contact information for at least 3 referees who are prepared to provide letters of recommendation directly through Interfolio.

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