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Graduate Research Assistant information

See Waterloo, ON salary details

$13.5K

$27.7K

$59.7K

How much do graduate research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate research assistant in Waterloo, ON is $27,694.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19,113.00 and $32,166.00 per year, 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 coursework in the field. Some positions may prefer or require additional qualifications such as a related bachelor's degree or specific certifications.

Is being a graduate research assistant worth it?

A graduate research assistant position provides valuable research experience, skills in data analysis and academic writing, and networking opportunities within a university environment. However, it often involves a low stipend and requires balancing work with coursework, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.

What does a graduate research assistant do?

A graduate research assistant supports 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 specialized tools and methods relevant to their field of study. This role typically requires strong research skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with relevant software or equipment.
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The top searched job categories for Graduate Research Assistant jobs in Waterloo, ON are:

What cities near Waterloo, ON are hiring for Graduate Research Assistant jobs?

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Graduate Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Assistant job openings in Waterloo, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,694 per year, or $13.3 per hour.

Research Assistant II - Population Medicine

University of Guelph

Guelph, ON

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Department: Population Medicine 
This position is classified under the Grant and Trust Administrative & Technical Group

Temporary full-time from 10/01/2026 to 07/30/2027

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.

Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose

The Department of Population Medicine is seeking a motivated and organized Field Research Technician to support innovative dairy health management research projects. This position offers a unique opportunity to work directly with dairy producers, researchers, graduate students, and industry partners while contributing to meaningful research that advances animal health and productivity.

Duties and Responsibilities

Field Research and Sample Collection (90%)

  • Conduct on-farm visits to commercial dairy farms to collect research data and biological samples.
  • Safely handle and restrain adult dairy cattle during sampling and data collection activities. 
  • Collect blood samples and maintain accurate records of observations and research data.
  • Process blood samples, including centrifuging, serum separation, labeling, and preparation for laboratory analysis.
  • Coordinate farm visits and research vehicle schedules.
  • Work collaboratively with faculty, graduate students, technicians, and research assistants on multiple projects.
  • Ensure research protocols are followed accurately and consistently.
  • Assist with laboratory procedures, including running ELISA assay kits and plate analyses when required.

Research Support and Administration (10%)

  • Enter and maintain research data in computer databases. 
  • Communicate with participating dairy producers to arrange project visits and sampling schedules. 
  • Maintain inventory of research and laboratory supplies.
  • Assist with ordering supplies and coordinating project logistics.
  • Support project administration and routine clerical activities as needed.

Requirements

  • Diploma in Agriculture, Animal Health Technology, Veterinary Technology, or a related field.
  • Knowledge of dairy cattle production, management, and housing systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to safely handle and work with adult dairy cattle.
  • Experience collecting blood samples from dairy cattle. 
  • Valid Ontario Class G driver's licence with the ability to travel regularly to dairy farms. 
  • Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. 
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • BSc in Agriculture, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, or a related discipline.
  • Experience with DairyComp 305.
  • Previous laboratory experience, particularly ELISA assays and sample processing.
  • Experience coordinating projects involving multiple stakeholders and schedules.

Working Conditions

This role involves extensive time on commercial dairy farms and requires:

  • Frequent travel to farms, typically 3 to 5 visits per week. 
  • Work in varying weather conditions and barn environments. 
  • Early morning starts and occasional work outside regular business hours.
  • Working around large animals and farm equipment.

Employee Type: Temporary  
Classification: Grant/ Trust fund position, Band  GTAT - Band B

GTAT (Grant & Trust Administrative and Technical) Salary Grid

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 08/10/2026 
Close Date: 09/04/2026

Apply