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Graduate Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Howard University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$20/hr

... graduate study or careers in research, healthcare, or related fields. SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY ... PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: * Assist in the design and execution of research experiments, surveys ...

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All JobsGraduate Research Assistant JobsGraduate Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Graduate Research Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$6

$19

$32

How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $23.85 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.

What is the role of a graduate research assistant?

A graduate research assistant supports faculty or research teams by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing reports or publications. They often work in academic or research settings, using specialized tools and methods relevant to their field of study. The role may also involve attending meetings, presenting findings, and developing research skills.

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.

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 requires strong academic performance, relevant research experience, and good recommendations. Competition can be high, especially for funded positions, and applicants often need to demonstrate skills related to the research area and sometimes pass interviews or assessments.

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.

Can grad students be research assistants?

Yes, graduate students are commonly employed as research assistants in academic and research institutions. These positions often involve supporting faculty with data collection, analysis, and literature reviews, and may require specific skills or coursework related to the research area.

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 Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,557 per year, or $20 per hour.
Summer Graduate Research Assistant (Student)

Summer Graduate Research Assistant (Student)

American

Washington, DC • On-site

$19.50/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Work Where You Learn: Build Experience, Grow Skills, and Contribute to Your University Community.This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

Most student positions at American University are eligible to use Federal Work Study (FWS) awards, with a few exceptions. FWS funds cannot be applied to janitorial, construction, partisan or sectarian positions. For information or questions regarding FWS funds, please contact American University's Office of Financial Aid.

Important guidance for current American University employees: American University current employees, including those employed in student positions, must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoyour employee Workday accountand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings. Applying outside of your employee Workday account may cause delays in a hire process.

Department:

College of Arts & Sciences

Time Type:

Part time

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Job Description:

Summary:

The Graduate Research Assistant (RA) supports faculty-led research projects during the summer. Responsibilities may include software development, data collection and analysis, literature review, algorithm implementation, testing and debugging, documentation, and preparing research materials or reports. Candidates should have strong programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with computer science concepts relevant to the research area.

Essential Functions:

  • Software development.

  • Data collection and analysis.

  • Literature review.

  • Algorithm implementation.

  • Testing and debugging documentation.

  • Preparing research materials or reports.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Part-time.

  • 10 hours per week.

Salary Range:

  • $19.50 per hour.

Other Details

  • This position is available only to enrolled American University students.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

  • Visit https://www.american.edu/hr/ for additional information about American University employment and benefits.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees (including those employed in student positions) must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

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