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

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Lab Research Associate information

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How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lab Research Associate, and why are they important?

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 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 June 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.
Research Assistant 2

$48K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview
Laboratory research focuses on the regulation of blood pressure and potassium homeostasis by the kidney. The Research Assistant 2 will perform mouse husbandry procedures including, but not limited to maintenance of breeding colonies, wean litters, provide mouse identification numbers, collect tissue, blood, and urine, and maintain records in a computer database. In addition, the Research Assistant 2 will assist in planning, performance, and interpretation of animal studies, including kidney tubule dissections and metabolic cage experiments. Opportunities exist to learn and perform other experimental techniques including mouse surgeries, single cell transcriptomics, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, genotyping, PCR, and advanced tissue clearing approaches. The position also requires lab management duties including ensuring animal research regulatory compliance, administration of IACUC protocols, general lab maintenance, ordering, and reagent preparation.
Function/Duties of Position
  • Animal Husbandry: maintenance of breeding colonies, wean litters, provide mouse identification numbers, collect tissue, blood, and urine, and maintain records in a computer database.
  • Laboratory Bench Work: significant participation in the planning, performance, and interpretation of animal studies. Opportunities exist to learn and perform other experimental techniques including mouse surgeries, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting.
  • Laboratory Management: duties include ensuring animal research regulatory compliance, administration of IACUC protocols, general lab maintenance, ordering, and reagent preparation.

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

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree (4 yr) with major courses in molecular biology.
  • Prior experience working with rodents. Prior experience performing kidney tubule isolation, tubule suspension in vitro studies, metabolic cage experiments, and fluorescent microscopy
  • Prior experience performing PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis.
  • Experience working with databases.

Additional Details
  • General work schedule will be a flexible Monday - Friday shifts (5 days per week). This position requires working with and handling animal models, research bench chemicals and reagents, and animal tissue and fluids.
  • Ability to work at a computer for up to four hours at a time. Ability to carry and lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand for four continuous hours a day. Ability to move around the campus as needed for research studies and meetings.

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

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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