ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lab Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

1X Technologies AS

AI Researcher

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$250K - $350K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Lab The 1X World Model Lab is an embodied AI research organization focused on pretraining the foundation models to accelerate the emergence of embodied intelligence. As the lab grows ...

Buck Institute

Postdoctoral Researcher - Ellerby lab

Novato, CA · On-site

$73K - $81K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

LAB OVERVIEW Dr. Lisa Ellerby's laboratory at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying age-related neurodegenerative diseases and develops novel small ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 12, 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 is a lab researcher?

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?

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.

How do you become a lab researcher?

To become a lab researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences is required, often followed by hands-on experience through internships or research projects. Advanced roles may require a master's or doctoral degree, along with skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with scientific tools and protocols.

Do research labs pay well?

Research lab positions, including lab researchers, typically offer salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level roles may have modest pay, while experienced researchers with advanced degrees and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in private or industry-funded labs.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher, Zhou Lab

Arc Institute

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$136K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Arc Institute is an independent nonprofit research organization at the interface of artificial intelligence and biology, working to accelerate scientific progress and understand the root causes of complex diseases. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in advancing the state-of-the-art in generative AI applied to biology, focusing on developing ML models for biological data and contributing to high-impact scientific discoveries.
Responsibilities:
• Train and evaluate state-of-the-art machine learning models for genomics
• Design, perform, and analyze experiments for model applications
• Keep appropriate experimental records and documentation
• Analyze results with the Principal Investigator
• Collaborate with postdocs, students, and employees on model development and data analyses
• May mentor/train research associates, technicians, and students.
• Publish, present, and represent the Zhou lab in journals and conferences.
• Present at lab meetings, and participate in Arc-wide activities (seminars, science socials, symposiums, etc).
Qualifications:
Required:
• Doctorate (MD, PhD) in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Genetics/Genomics.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment and be both an independent thinker and a highly collaborative team player.
Preferred:
• Strong understanding of modern deep learning, computational biology, and genetics.
• Ability to analyze/visualize complex datasets, build high-quality ML tools, draw meaningful conclusions, and work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Eager to learn and adapt new techniques.
• Intellectually independent and able to design new research directions and projects with input from your PI.
• Familiar with recently reported projects in the fields of AI for genomics and biological design, including DNA sequence to function models, genome language models, and single-cell foundation models.
Company:
Arc Institute is a biomedical science and research technology company. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Palo Alto, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

Apply