1

Lab Research Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Lab Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

$25/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a Lab Associate to support laboratory operations by performing sample ... Process specimens, retrieve and release test results, and assist with laboratory research ...

Innovation Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$20.19 - $30.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... research in sports apparel, footwear and equipment. All faculty and staff in our program have a ... adults OR Associate Degree and one year of work experience (paid or volunteer) which must be ...

Innovation Lab Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$20.19 - $30.11/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... research in sports apparel, footwear and equipment. All faculty and staff in our program have a ... adults OR Associate Degree and one year of work experience (paid or volunteer) which must be ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Lab Research Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$23

$36

How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab research associate in Portland, OR is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.49 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 are popular job titles related to Lab Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR?

For Lab Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Lab Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Lab Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lab Research Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,341 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

$23.18 - $33.02/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview
The Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care (BCCPC) is developing new detection methods and treatments for cancer. One way to do that is to is to create pre-clinical animal models that can be manipulated and tested. The purpose of this position is to assist in developing mouse models of pancreatic cancer and assess drug responses in those models. This includes mouse colony management and husbandry, tissue dissection, and genotyping.
As a BCCPC team member, you will work in the lab to identify in vivo drug-response metrics that best predict drug responses in patients, helping to inform clinical care. You will be trained in growing primary cultures of tumor cells using advanced cell biology lab techniques, automated therapeutic screens, and histology techniques, as well as performing quantitative analysis of images, harvesting and processing mouse tissues, assisting in survival mouse surgeries, data entry/collection and laboratory housekeeping. You will be responsible for conducting some phases of projects independently and may help to design experiments.
Do you have strong organizational and communication skills and the ability to work under minimal supervision? Have you had experience with cell biology laboratory techniques? Then consider joining Oregon's pancreas research headquarters on the South Waterfront to start building your future in the biomedical sciences. (Please note: this position is NOT eligible for remote work.)
Function/Duties of Position
  • Maintain mouse colonies: breeding, animal husbandry and mouse colony management. Perform animal procedures including injections, health checks, tumor or other measurements, administering drug by mouth, injections, surgery, tissue harvest, and tissue preparation following necropsy.
  • Perform in vivo experiments including cell culture, genotyping, immunohistochemical sample preparation and processing, cell isolation and DNA/RNA purification, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and other biochemistry assays. Perform preliminary interpretation of results to determine whether they are consistent with experimental goals.
  • Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data, keeping detailed and accurate laboratory records; tabulate data, perform calculations, prepare charts, graphs and reports. May assist with preparation of figures, tables and reports for publications and grants.
  • Assist in the daily operation of the lab including hazardous waste disposal, sterilization of equipment, cleaning glassware, general servicing of equipment and ordering lab supplies, and preparation of media and buffers.
  • Assist in design of research experiments and troubleshooting; attend lab meetings and present data; attend group meetings and seminars as relevant
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in relevant field OR
  • Associate's Degree AND
  • 3 years of relevant experience OR
  • 4 years of relevant experience OR
  • Equivalent combination of training and experience

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Bioscience, in-lab training
  • Animal handling
  • Computer skills; strong organizational abilities; excellent communication skills; strong data management skills; exceptional attention to detail; ability to multitask; ability to follow direction; must be able to work in a BSL-2

Additional Details
  • Work is 40 hours per week, generally during normal working hours, however, some evening and weekend work will be necessary on occasion. Additional safety training will be required for working with mice/cell lines/patient samples/ infectious bacteria or viruses and working within a BSL-2 environment. Animal handling is required.
  • Personnel will need to work at lab benches or desks for up to 8 hours in a day and 2 hours at a time. Ability to perform repetitive lab manipulations (gripping, grasping, reaching, twisting, computer data entry), move lab equipment under 25 lbs with accommodation. These functions can be very repetitive. Personal protective equipment must be worn as required (gloves, mask/respirator, eyewear, lab coat, etc.). Ability to ride the aerial tram and walk long distances across campus. Ability to handle physical tissue/blood specimens including use of dry ice, liquid nitrogen storage, carrying packages for shipment.

Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887