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Laboratory Research Assistant Jobs in Puerto Rico

Collaborate with Research, Manufacturing, Maintenance, Process Development, Utilities, Facilities ... Apply Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) as applicable.

Senior Engineer 35449

Juncos, PR

$101K - $139K/yr

Research * Utilities * Facilities * Quality Assurance * Validation to support equipment ... Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). * Engineering documentation within highly regulated environments.

Laboratory Research Assistant information

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 popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Puerto Rico?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Assistant job openings in Puerto Rico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Medical Assistant, Research Assistant

Headlands Research

San Juan, PR

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

 Location: San Juan, PR | Site Name: CMR Center  | Full-Time  | Clinical Research

We're seeking a Medical Assistant for our clinical research site located in San Juan, PR. This role is ideal for someone with direct patient care experience who is eager to grow in clinical research and support high-quality study execution. The Research Assistant/Medical Assistant will work closely with Clinical Research Coordinators, investigators, study nurses, sponsors, and participants to assist with study preparation, participant visits, data entry, specimen handling, and general clinical research operations. This position requires strong organization, professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to follow study protocols and Good Clinical Practice guidelines.

Type:  Regular Full-time Employee
Schedule:  Mondays through Fridays, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Location:  Onsite in San Juan, PR (no capabilities for remote or hybrid work)
Benefits:  Our benefits package for full-time employees includes health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Paid Time Off (PTO), a variety of disability, accident, and life insurance options, as well as many more.

What We Offer
  • Competitive pay + annual performance incentives
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) and company holidays
  • A mission-driven culture focused on advancing medicine and improving patient outcomes
 Why Join Us?

You'll be part of a growing, mission-driven organization that values its people. At our core, we're committed to bringing innovative medical treatments to patients faster-while creating an environment where employees thrive. If you're passionate about clinical research and ready to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Responsibilities:

  • Study Preparation and Coordination 
    • Prepare and maintain study documents, including source charts, study binders, regulatory binders, laboratory kits, and participant materials. 
    • Schedule and confirm participant appointments, including ancillary visits such as diagnostic imaging, vendor-related services, laboratory visits, and follow-up assessments. 
    • Review and understand study protocols, inclusion and exclusion criteria, visit schedules, and study-specific requirements. 
    • Support compliance with FDA, Sponsor, IRB, and Good Clinical Practice guidelines. 
    • Assist with participant recruitment by prescreening electronic medical records, following up on referrals, and coordinating outreach efforts. 
    • Help prepare for participant visits by ensuring required documents, supplies, kits, and equipment are ready. 
  • Participant Care and Interaction 
    • Provide professional, patient-focused support to study participants throughout the clinical trial process. 
    • Explain study visit procedures, answer general participant questions, and escalate clinical or protocol-related questions to the appropriate team member. 
    • Conduct study-related procedures as delegated and trained, including vital signs, ECGs, questionnaires, and other protocol-required assessments. 
    • Monitor participant diary completion and compliance with study instructions. 
    • Perform follow-up and reminder calls to support participant adherence to scheduled visits and study requirements. 
    • Assist with participant stipend tracking and processing. 
  • Laboratory and Specimen Handling 
    • Perform blood draws as trained and delegated. 
    • Process biological samples according to protocol and laboratory manual requirements. 
    • Prepare and ship specimens in accordance with study-specific procedures and applicable regulations. 
    • Maintain laboratory supplies, equipment, temperature logs, and temperature control systems. 
    • Generate, review, and file weekly temperature reports for laboratory systems. 
    • Ensure exam rooms, laboratory areas, and clinical supplies are clean, stocked, organized, and ready for participant visits. 
  • Data Entry and Documentation 
    • Enter and verify study data in Electronic Data Capture systems, Clinical Trial Management Systems, electronic medical records, and other study databases. 
    • Assist with completion of source documents and case report forms under the guidance of the Clinical Research Coordinator. 
    • Perform quality control checks to ensure data accuracy, completeness, and consistency. 
    • Assist with query resolution and system-generated queries under coordinator supervision. 
    • Maintain organized participant charts, source documents, Investigator Site Files, and other study-related records. 
  • Administrative and General Research Support 
    • Support Clinical Research Coordinators by filing, scanning, faxing, copying, and uploading required study documents. 
    • Assist with onsite and remote clinical research monitor visits. 
    • Participate in study trainings, investigator meetings, sponsor teleconferences, and internal team meetings. 
    • Help maintain department supplies, exam rooms, participant areas, and study workspaces. 
    • Support the research team with other duties as assigned based on study and site needs. 

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree OR two years of college in a health-related program OR completion of a Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, CNA, or other healthcare-related program OR relevant clinical research experience with knowledge of ICH-GCP. 
  • Fluent in English and Spanish (both written and oral) required.
  • Experience, certification, or license as a CNA, Medical Assistant (MA), Phlebotomist, or other direct-patient-care healthcare role required. 
  • Phlebotomy training and experience strongly preferred; willingness to become fully trained required.
  • Experience with medical terminology and laboratory procedures helpful.
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to collect, compile, and review patient data accurately.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, written, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to learn new computer systems and web-based platforms, including electronic medical records, Electronic Data Capture systems, and Clinical Trial Management Systems.
  • Proven ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to a fast-paced clinical environment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.