ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLab Researcher JobsLab Researcher Jobs in California

Lab Researcher information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$111.6K

$162.3K

How much do lab researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for lab researcher in California is $111,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are lab researchers?

Lab researchers are professionals who conduct scientific experiments, investigations, and analyses in laboratory settings. They may work in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, medicine, or engineering to develop new knowledge, test hypotheses, or create innovative products. Lab researchers are responsible for designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring that laboratory procedures follow safety protocols. Their work is essential for advancing scientific understanding and technological progress.

What are some common challenges faced by lab researchers when working on collaborative projects?

Lab researchers often work as part of interdisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as coordinating schedules, aligning research goals, and communicating effectively with colleagues from different backgrounds. Managing shared resources and ensuring consistent documentation are also important aspects. Developing strong organizational and interpersonal skills can help researchers navigate these challenges and contribute effectively to collaborative projects.

What is the difference between Lab Researcher vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLab ResearcherLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; research experienceAssociate's degree or certification; technical training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, pharmaceutical companiesClinical labs, industrial labs, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusDesigning experiments, analyzing data, developing new methodsPerforming routine tests, maintaining equipment, sample preparation

Lab Researchers typically hold higher education degrees and focus on experimental design and data analysis, often working on innovative projects. Laboratory Technicians usually have technical certifications and handle routine testing and equipment maintenance. Both roles are essential in laboratory settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Lab Researcher, you need a strong background in scientific methods, analytical skills, and a relevant degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and safety protocols is typically required, along with certifications like GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) when applicable. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for conducting accurate experiments, ensuring safety, and effectively sharing research findings.
What are popular job titles related to Lab Researcher jobs in California? For Lab Researcher jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lab Researcher jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lab Researcher jobs in California are:
Lab Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Researcher job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 80% Full Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher - Zhou lab

Buck Institute for Research on Aging

Novato, CA • On-site

$73K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Mitochondria Lysome Function and Aging Research
Position Summary
The Buck Institute for Research on Aging is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to investigate mitochondria-lysosome crosstalk in the context of aging and cellular senescence. This position will focus on understanding how communication between mitochondria and lysosomes regulates organelle function, cellular homeostasis, and age-associated decline.
The successful candidate will use a combination of cell biology, advanced imaging, quantitative analysis, genetics, and mechanistic perturbation approaches to uncover how mitochondria-lysosome interactions contribute to organelle and cellular dysfunction associated with hallmarks of aging. The project will also explore new strategies to restore organelle communication and intervene in aging-associated phenotypes in the context of both normal aging and age-related diseases.
The candidate will join a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary team that integrates biology, biophysics, imaging, quantitative analysis, computational biology, and artificial intelligence. This environment provides strong opportunities to combine experimental discovery with quantitative and computational approaches, particularly through high-content imaging, automated microscopy, and large-scale image analysis.
About the Zhou Lab
The Zhou Lab is an intentionally multidisciplinary research group that uses model systems ranging from budding yeast and cultured human cells to animal models to study fundamental mechanisms of aging. Our team brings together researchers from cell biology, biophysics, computer science, artificial intelligence, and other quantitative disciplines. We view this cross-disciplinary environment as a major strength, creating opportunities for shared learning, creative problem-solving, and discoveries that would be difficult to achieve within a single field alone.
Our lab uses a diverse range of cutting-edge approaches, including super-resolution imaging, high-throughput screening, cryo-EM, simulations, genetics, and machine learning. Current research areas include systems biology of aging, organelle communication, and proteome plasticity.
Recently, the lab has built automated research pipelines that combine liquid-handling robotics, high-throughput cell manipulation, automated super-resolution microscopy, and machine-learning-based image analysis. These platforms enable large-scale imaging and quantitative analysis of molecular and cellular aging phenotypes.
We are looking for candidates who are passionate about uncovering basic principles of molecular and cellular biology and who are excited to work at the interface of organelle biology, aging research, advanced imaging, and quantitative analysis.
Recent Publications
  1. Yoo S, et al. The Spatiotemporal Proteome Landscape of Aging: Structural determinants of age-sensitive proteome remodeling. bioRxiv [Preprint]. 2026 March 1. DOI: 10.64898/2026.02.26.708310
  2. Liu, Q., et al. Mitochondria-vacuole coupling contributes to vacuolar acidification and aging. In press, Molecular Cell
  3. Zheng, F., et al., Metabolic Environment-Driven Remodeling of Mitochondrial Ribosomes Regulates Translation and Biogenesis. Molecular Cell 2025 Nov 6:S1097-2765(25)00853-6.
  4. Liu, Q., et al. Nascent mitochondrial proteins initiate the localized condensation of cytosolic protein aggregates on the mitochondrial surface. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2023 Aug; 120(31) e2300475120
Required Qualifications
  • PhD in cell biology or related field
  • Track record of first-author publications in related field
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research setting
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
Compensation & Benefits
  • $73,760 - $81,440 depending on skills and experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision coverage, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401(k) employer contribution, and a student debt repayment option.
About the Buck
The Buck Institute for Research on Aging is the first independent biomedical research institute in the United States devoted solely to research on aging. Located in Novato, California, the Buck brings together scientists across multiple disciplines to study the mechanisms of aging and age-related disease, to help people live better, longer.
The Buck Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will contribute to the diversity and excellence of our community.
To Apply
Please submit:
  • A curriculum vitae or resume,
  • A cover letter addressing your past research experience, plans, and expectations for working in the lab
  • Any relevant publications, projects, or code.

Apply