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Laboratory Research Assistant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$30K - $75K/yr

... laboratory procedures Adhere to an IRB approved protocol Assist in the informed consent process of research subjects Support the safety of research subjects Coordinate protocol related research ...

New

Research Assistant

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$30K - $75K/yr

... laboratory procedures • Adhere to an IRB approved protocol • Assist in the informed consent process of research subjects • Support the safety of research subjects • Coordinate protocol ...

Research Assistant (part-time) 15-20 Hours per week to start then hours will ramp up Location ... laboratory specimens, including acquiring dry ice for shipping. * Participate in study visits ...

Research Assistant (part-time) 15-20 Hours per week to start then hours will ramp up Location ... laboratory specimens, including acquiring dry ice for shipping. * Participate in study visits ...

Research Assistant (part-time) 15-20 Hours per week to start then hours will ramp up Location ... laboratory specimens, including acquiring dry ice for shipping. * Participate in study visits ...

Research Assistant (part-time) 15-20 Hours per week to start then hours will ramp up Location ... laboratory specimens, including acquiring dry ice for shipping. * Participate in study visits ...

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Laboratory Research Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do laboratory research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research assistant in Colorado is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a laboratory research assistant do?

A Laboratory Research Assistant supports scientific research by conducting experiments, preparing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and recording data. They work closely with scientists and researchers to ensure accurate and reliable results. Their duties often include following strict safety protocols, managing inventories of chemicals and supplies, and assisting in the analysis and interpretation of data. This role is essential for keeping research projects organized and progressing efficiently.

What are some common challenges laboratory research assistants face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Research Assistants often juggle several experiments at once, which requires strong organizational and time-management skills. Balancing tasks such as sample preparation, data recording, and maintaining equipment can be challenging, especially when experiments have overlapping schedules or require precise timing. It’s important to develop effective routines, communicate proactively with the research team, and use digital tools or lab notebooks to track progress. Staying adaptable and seeking guidance from senior staff can also help manage competing priorities efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Research Assistant, you need a solid background in biology or chemistry, strong laboratory techniques, and at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software such as Excel or SPSS, and sometimes certifications in lab safety or Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication skills help candidates excel in collaborative research environments. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe lab practices, and smooth project execution, all of which are critical to successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Laboratory Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, pharmaceutical companiesClinical labs, research facilities, hospitals
Job FocusAssisting with experiments, data collection, literature reviewPerforming tests, maintaining equipment, sample processing

Both roles support scientific research but differ mainly in responsibilities and focus. Laboratory Research Assistants typically assist with experimental design and data analysis, while Laboratory Technicians focus on conducting tests and maintaining lab equipment. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a laboratory research assistant?

To become a laboratory research assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Gaining laboratory skills, familiarity with lab equipment, and experience through internships or research projects can improve job prospects; some positions may also require certifications or training in safety protocols. Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

What qualifications do I need to be a laboratory research assistant?

Laboratory research assistants typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment and procedures, and strong organizational abilities; some roles may also require certifications in safety or specific techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Research jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Laboratory Research jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Colorado?

For Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Laboratory Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Laboratory Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Assistant job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,283 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Professional Research Assistant

Boulder, CO • On-site


University of Colorado Boulder
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$40K - $54K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Requisition Number:

74393

Location:

Boulder, Colorado

City

Boulder

State

Colorado

Employment Type:

Research Faculty

Schedule:

Full-Time

Posting Close Date:

27-Aug-2026

Date Posted:

25-Aug-2026
Close All
Job Summary
The Professional Research Assistant will provide research, instructional, and laboratory support for course-based and independent undergraduate research activities within the department, with a particular emphasis on the MCDB 1171 and MCDB 1191 Drug Discovery course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) laboratories and the MCDB Skills Center. 

The position will support the implementation and continuity of research projects across these courses, including assisting with experimental planning and troubleshooting, preparation and maintenance of research materials and reagents, collection and organization of research data, and training undergraduate researchers and teaching assistants in laboratory methods, research practices, and appropriate use of instrumentation. The Professional Research Assistant will also assist faculty with the supervision and mentoring of students conducting independent study and other undergraduate research projects.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are

Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department

Founded in 1968 by the pioneering cell biologist and electron microscopist, Keith Porter, MCDB was among the first departments to integrate molecular, cellular, and developmental biology.  For nearly 50 years, MCDB researchers have made seminal contributions to our understanding of the structures of cells and organisms and the molecular underpinnings of life processes. A few of these early discoveries include: translational regulation of gene expression; bacterial motility by rotating flagella; fine structure of plant cell walls, tight junctions, chloroplasts, and mitotic spindles; temperature-sensitive and maternal effect mutations in C. elegans, and catalytic RNA. 

Today, MCDB faculty and students continue this pursuit to understand life at its most fundamental levels. But we are also addressing many of the pressing biomedical problems facing society, such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, blindness, neurological and muscle disorders, infectious disease and antibiotic resistance, and environmental destruction.  Beyond making discoveries, MCDB continues its long tradition of excellence in cultivating and educating the next generations of research leaders, biomedical innovators, educators, and scientifically literate citizens.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
  • In support of these research activities, the Professional Research Assistant will coordinate day-to-day laboratory operations for the CURE program, including supervising and supporting approximately 18-25 teaching assistants, coordinating laboratory preparation and workflows, maintaining and servicing laboratory equipment, managing reagent and supply inventories, and conducting ordering research materials. The position will work closely with faculty, teaching assistants, and undergraduate researchers to ensure that laboratories operate safely and efficiently and that experimental work is conducted consistently across multiple laboratory sections. Additional responsibilities may include development and refinement of experimental protocols, documentation of research and laboratory procedures, and implementation of new methods or research activities as the CURE program and Skills Center evolve.
What You Should Know
  • Due to the nature of this work, the person selected for this position is expected to work full-time August 1 through May 31, each year with a 2-month break required every June and July.  This position is a full time during the 10 month period.
What We Can Offer
The salary range for this position is $34,000 - $45,000 annually for 10 months time ($40,800 - $54,000 as a 12 month equivalent).
Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.
What We Require
  • Bachelors degree in Biology or related field.
  • Previous experience supporting or conducting research in molecular, cellular, developmental biology, biochemistry, drug discovery, or a related field; experience with laboratory-based undergraduate research or CURE courses.
What You Will Need
  • Demonstrated experience training, supervising, or mentoring undergraduate students and/or teaching assistants; and experience managing research laboratory operations, including reagent preparation, inventory and ordering, equipment maintenance, experimental troubleshooting, and laboratory safety. 
  • Prior experience with MCDB 1171, MCDB 1191, or comparable multi-section research-based laboratory courses is strongly preferred.
What We Would Like You to Have
  • The ideal candidate will be able to work independently while collaborating effectively with faculty and instructional staff and will have demonstrated familiarity with the experimental techniques, research workflows, and organizational demands associated with supporting multiple concurrent undergraduate research projects.
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
  1. Resume/CV
  2. Cover Letter
  3. Optional: Transcripts/Proof of Degree
During the application process you will need to enter contact information for a reference who can write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. We will request letters and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.

Please apply by August 27, 2026.

Note: Applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.


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