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Graduate Student Research Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MI

Wayne State University

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 ...

Madonna University

Graduate Assistant

Livonia, MI · On-site

... 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 ...

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$42K/yr

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 ...

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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 Rochester, MI is $15.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.02 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 the most commonly searched types of Graduate Student Research jobs in Rochester, MI?

The most popular types of Graduate Student Research jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI?

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

What job categories do people searching Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Graduate Student Research Assistant job openings:

Graduate Student Research Assistant jobs near you

Research Assistant - Biological Sciences

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

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

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant - Biological Sciences
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant - Biological Sciences at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Conduct molecular biology experiments including DNA cloning, plasmid preparation, PCR, bacterial transformation, and strain maintenance.
Perform mammalian cell culture, transfection, microscopy sample preparation, and other cell biology and biochemical techniques in support of ongoing research projects.
Generate, analyze, document, and organize experimental data to support manuscripts, grant applications, and laboratory presentations.
Assist with multiple research projects by performing experiments independently and collaborating with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and the principal investigator.
Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including inventory management, ordering supplies, maintaining laboratory records, and ensuring adequate stock of reagents and consumables.
Maintain laboratory equipment, coordinate routine maintenance and repairs, and ensure compliance with laboratory safety regulations and standard operating procedures.
Train and supervise undergraduate researchers in laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and proper documentation of experimental work.
Coordinate laboratory schedules, organize shared equipment usage, and assist with onboarding new laboratory personnel.
Prepare reagents, maintain cell lines and laboratory stocks, and perform general laboratory organization and housekeeping.
Participate in laboratory meetings and contribute to experimental planning, troubleshooting, and protocol optimization
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a closely related field.
At least one year of hands-on laboratory research experience in an academic or biotechnology setting (undergraduate research experience may be considered).
Experience with common molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, bacterial culture, plasmid preparation, and gel electrophoresis.
Experience with mammalian cell culture and basic cell biology techniques.
Experience with biochemical methods such as protein extraction, Western blotting, and immunodetection.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic record-keeping.
Preferred qualifications:
Experience with laboratory management, including inventory control, ordering, equipment maintenance, and laboratory organization. Experience training or mentoring undergraduate students or other laboratory personnel. Experience with fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, or quantitative image analysis. Experience with yeast genetics, CRISPR/Cas9, protein purification, lipid biology, or other techniques relevant to membrane biology research. Familiarity with statistical analysis and scientific data visualization software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, ImageJ/Fiji, R, or Python). Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experimental protocols and contribute to the design and execution of independent research projects.
School/College/Division:
H12 - College of Liberal Arts & Science
Primary department:
H1204 - Biological Sciences
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Salary minimum: $55,000
  • Salary hire maximum: $57,000
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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