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Lab Rats Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Princeton University

Research Specialist

Princeton, NJ

$41K - $60K/yr

... and rats on operant tasks, perform optogenetic experiments, and histological analysis of brain tissue. - collaborate with graduate students or postdoctoral research fellows in the lab on various ...

Princeton University

Research Specialist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$41K - $60K/yr

... and rats on operant tasks, perform optogenetic experiments, and histological analysis of brain tissue. - collaborate with graduate students or postdoctoral research fellows in the lab on various ...

Princeton University

Research Specialist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$41K - $60K/yr

... and rats on operant tasks, perform optogenetic experiments, and histological analysis of brain tissue. - collaborate with graduate students or postdoctoral research fellows in the lab on various ...

University of Colorado

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Aurora, CO · On-site

$77K/yr

Key Responsibilities: • Perform surgery on rats and mice. • Perform recordings of spontaneous ... Supervision Received The Post-doctoral Fellow reports to the Lab Director, Dr. Slobodan Todorovic.

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How much do lab rats jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab rats in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lab Rats vs Laboratory Technicians?

AspectLab RatsLaboratory Technicians
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials requiredAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, experimental settingsClinical, medical, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech startupsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for experimental rolesCompared for technical, diagnostic work

Lab Rats are typically used in experimental or research settings with minimal formal credentials, while Laboratory Technicians usually hold formal education and work in clinical or diagnostic labs. Both roles operate within laboratory environments but serve different functions and require different qualifications.

What are Lab Rats?

In the context of employment, 'Lab Rats' typically refers to individuals who work or volunteer in laboratories, often assisting with experiments, research, or testing. They may be students, technicians, or junior researchers gaining hands-on experience with scientific procedures and equipment. Sometimes, 'lab rat' is also used informally to describe someone who spends a great deal of time in a laboratory environment. Their responsibilities can range from preparing samples to recording data and maintaining lab equipment. This role is essential for supporting scientific discoveries and ensuring experiments are conducted accurately and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory technicians in a research environment?

Laboratory technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines, managing multiple experiments simultaneously, and adapting quickly to new protocols or technologies. Working in a research environment also requires strict adherence to safety and quality control standards, which can be demanding. Effective communication with researchers and team members is essential to ensure smooth workflow and reliable results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Technician, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, scientific principles, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and adherence to regulatory standards such as GLP is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety, and support productive collaboration within scientific teams.
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Research Specialist

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

$41K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Princeton University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Overview

The Princeton Neuroscience Institute has a Research Specialist position available with Professor Ilana Witten.

The successful applicant will be energetic and detail-oriented with at least 2 years of experience in a wet lab research setting.

Applications should include a cover letter indicating why you would like the job and what you will bring to the lab, a CV, and a list of at least two potential referees. Review of applications will continue until the positions are filled.

This is a one-year term position with the possibility of renewal based on funding and performance.

Responsibilities

- train mice and rats on operant tasks, perform optogenetic experiments, and histological analysis of brain tissue.

- collaborate with graduate students or postdoctoral research fellows in the lab on various projects related to the neural circuits underlying reward-related behaviors.

- possibility of contributing to cellular-resolution imaging experiments.

- other contributions to the lab.

Qualifications

Essential Qualifications:

- Bachelors degree or higher in neuroscience, biology, engineering or a related field is required. - 2+ years experience in a wet lab research setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Familiarity with Matlab, Python or R for data analysis.- Research experience involving neuroscience methods.- Master's degree or Bachelor's plus 2 years postbaccalaureate experience in neuroscience, biology, engineering or a related field.

This position is subject to the University's background check policy.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Standard Weekly Hours36.25Eligible for OvertimeYesBenefits EligibleYesProbationary Period90 daysEssential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)NoPhysical Capacity Exam RequiredNoValid Driver's License RequiredNo#LI-ZY1Salary Range$41,000 to $60,000Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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