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Lab Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Merge Labs is a frontier research lab with the mission of bridging biological and artificial ... About the role As a Research Associate, you'll join a multidisciplinary group advancing core ...

Summary The DeNicola lab ( at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa FL is recruiting a Research Associate II to join our group. Research in the DeNicola lab is centered around how metabolic ...

Senior Research Associate

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$29.75 - $37.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Research Associate will be an integral member of the laboratory alongside the lab manager, technicians, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students to ensure efficient laboratory ...

As a Senior Research Associate, you will participate in the development of genomic assay ... Collaborate with Quality Control Lab, Manufacturing lab, Quality, and Regulatory to transfer ...

Senior Research Associate

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Position Overview We are seeking a Senior Research Associate to be the hands-on engine of our wet lab. You will work alongside two senior teammates--one leading R&D and assay development, the other ...

Senior Research Associate

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

As a Senior Research Associate, you will participate in the development of genomic assay ... Collaborate with Quality Control Lab, Manufacturing lab, Quality, and Regulatory to transfer ...

Showing results 41-60

Lab Research Associate information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab research associate in California is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lab research associate do?

A Lab Research Associate supports scientific research by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often assist senior researchers in designing studies, collecting samples, and performing routine tests. Their role is crucial in ensuring that experiments are conducted accurately and efficiently, following safety protocols and documentation standards. Lab Research Associates work in various settings, including universities, hospitals, and private research facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab research associate?

To thrive as a Lab Research Associate, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or a related field, usually with a bachelor's or master's degree and experience in laboratory techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and protocols like PCR or chromatography is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These capabilities ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and contribute to successful research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by lab research associates when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Lab Research Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which can be challenging due to the need for precise timing, meticulous record-keeping, and coordination with other team members. Unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or reagent shortages, may require quick troubleshooting and adaptability. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential to ensure that data is accurately collected and experiments are completed within deadlines. Collaborating closely with principal investigators and fellow researchers also helps in prioritizing tasks and sharing resources efficiently.

What is a lab research associate in a lab?

A lab research associate is a professional responsible for conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results in a laboratory setting. They often work under the supervision of senior scientists and use tools like microscopes, lab equipment, and data analysis software to support research projects.

What qualifications do you need to be a lab research associate?

A lab research associate typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Laboratory skills, familiarity with research protocols, and attention to detail are important, and some positions may require experience with specific tools or techniques. Certifications or training in safety procedures can also be beneficial.

What job categories do people searching Lab Research Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Research Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lab Research Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lab Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,917 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

$70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

A Research Associate position is available immediately in the Saito laboratory to study innate immunology against human pathogenic viruses and bacteria in the context of liver diseases. Our laboratory utilizes the tools of cell biology, virology, genetics, molecular biology, and systems biology. The ideal applicant will be a hardworking, creative, and highly self-motivated researcher interested in pathogen-host interaction, liver diseases, inflammation, and immunity. The candidate is expected to have significant experience in molecular biology, in vitro and in vivo experiments (mouse), biochemistry, protein assay (Western Blotting, Immunoprecipitation, gel analysis), nucleic acids (DNA and RNA such as cloning, PCR, RT-QPCR, RNA synthesis, transfection, extraction, gene overexpression/silencing), and microscopic analysis (immune fluorescent staining, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), light microscopy and image analysis and processing).

The Research Associate's primary responsibilities will be to develop, lead, and conduct highly technical research projects under the PI's guidance. It includes identifying the research question, design, and perform experiments, as well as the analysis of research data and provides interpretations. The applicant is expected to serve as a lead author for publication and conference presentation. The candidate must be fluent in the use of laboratory equipment, computer/research/office software to conduct analyses of experiment data. The candidate also contributes to the quality control of the laboratory, such as preparation of general experimental materials, maintenance of laboratory protocols, safety guidelines, and animal protocols. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, references, and a list of any publications or accomplishments.

The summary of Saito laboratory research can be found at: https://sites.usc.edu/saito-lab/

Preferred Education: Applicants should hold a PhD or be close to completing a PhD training in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics, Biology, or in a relevant field.

Preferred Experience: 4-6 years in wet lab (including PhD training)

Preferred Field of Expertise: in vitro and in vivo experiments in the field of immunology (pathogen-host interactions), general cell biology, and biochemistry.

The annual range for this position is$70,745.28 - $70,745.28. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate
Minimum Experience: 1 year
Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education and experience in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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