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Graduate Student Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted ...

... research, student support, and administrative initiatives. Graduate Assistant assignments are ... available in a variety of academic and administrative units based on departmental needs and the ...

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Graduate Student Research Assistant information

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How much do graduate student research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate student research assistant in Michigan is $14.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a graduate student research assistant?

To thrive as a Graduate Student Research Assistant, you need strong analytical abilities, subject-specific knowledge, and enrollment in a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with research software, data analysis tools (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and academic databases is typically required. Excellent time management, communication, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and balance research with academic responsibilities. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality research, contributing to academic projects, and advancing your academic career.

How much do graduate student research assistants make in the US?

Graduate student research assistants in the US typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual stipends ranging from $20,000 to $35,000 depending on the institution, field, and experience. Many positions also include tuition waivers and benefits, and work schedules often involve part-time hours during academic terms.

What is a graduate student research assistant?

Graduate Student Research Assistants are graduate-level students who assist faculty or principal investigators in conducting research projects, often as part of their academic training. Their duties may include data collection, analysis, literature reviews, laboratory work, and preparing reports or presentations. These positions provide valuable hands-on research experience and may be funded through grants or university programs. Typically, Graduate Student Research Assistants work part-time while pursuing their graduate degrees, contributing to both their professional development and the progress of the research project.

How does a graduate student research assistant typically collaborate with faculty and other researchers in a university setting?

Graduate Student Research Assistants often work closely with faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, and other graduate students. They may participate in regular lab meetings, contribute to group discussions, and assist in designing and conducting experiments or data analysis. Collaboration is key, as assistants are frequently expected to share findings, provide feedback on others' work, and sometimes co-author papers or presentations. This teamwork not only enhances the research itself but also provides valuable mentorship and networking opportunities for career development.

What is the difference between Graduate Student Research Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectGraduate Student Research AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, relevant coursework or degreeUndergraduate or graduate student, often less specialized
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university settings, ongoing research projectsResearch labs, industry settings, short-term projects
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research institutionsCorporations, research firms, industry R&D
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research roles, career developmentIndustry experience, internship opportunities

The main difference is that Graduate Student Research Assistants are enrolled students working on academic research projects within universities, often as part of their degree requirements. Research Interns are typically students or early-career individuals gaining industry experience through short-term internships. While both roles involve research tasks, the setting, credentials, and career focus differ.

Is being a graduate student research assistant good for grad school?

Being a graduate student research assistant provides valuable experience in research methods, data analysis, and academic collaboration, which can strengthen a graduate student's skills and resume. It also offers networking opportunities and often provides financial support through stipends or tuition waivers, benefiting overall graduate school success.

Can graduate students be research assistants?

Yes, graduate students commonly serve as research assistants in academic settings, supporting faculty with research projects, data analysis, and lab work. These positions often require relevant coursework, strong research skills, and sometimes specific certifications or tools, and they typically offer part-time schedules alongside coursework.

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs in Michigan?

For Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Graduate Student Research Assistant job openings:

Pharmacology Research Assistant (Student Position)

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI • On-site

$13.73/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

576th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Pharmacology Research Assistant (Student Position)
Job no: 497990
Work type: Student Employment - General
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Student Employment - General
Position Title: Pharmacology Research Assistant (Student Position)
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Department:
College of Pharmacy
Advertised Salary: $13.73
Summary of Position: This position will be supported by Md Afjalus Siraj, PhD Ferris Research Grant, 2026. The student Research Assistant will work on how combination therapy, like SMNDC1 inhibitor along with KRAS inhibitor, overcome targeted therapy resistance in pancreatic cancer.
Position Requirements: Current student of Ferris State University with a major in Forensic Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Design and revise laboratory protocols
In hand cell based assay development
Lab note maintenance and regular discussion with PI
Attend weekly lab meeting
Discuss with PI about other weekly responsibilities
Literature review and data extraction
Data analysis
Number of Positions Available: 1
Documents Needed to Apply: Resume, Cover Letter
Job Close Date: December 12, 2026
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.
Advertised: 03 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 12 Dec 2026 Eastern Standard Time
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