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Laboratory Research Assistant Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Research Assistant

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$35K - $89K/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 ...

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Laboratory Research Assistant information

See Utah salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do laboratory research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research assistant in Utah is $18.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $21.01 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 popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Utah?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Assistant job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,339 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Hourly Research Assistants

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$15 - $30/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Announcement
Details
Open Date
07/21/2026
Requisition Number
PRN17248N
Job Title
Hourly Research Assistants
Working Title
Hourly Research Assistants
Career Progression Track
S00
Track Level
S4 - Highly Skilled, S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate
FLSA Code
Nonexempt
Patient Sensitive Job Code?
No
Type
Non Benefited Staff / Student
Temporary?
No
Standard Hours per Week
19
Full Time or Part Time?
Part Time
Shift
Day
Work Schedule Summary
Is this a work study job?
No
VP Area
U of U Health - Academics
Department
00952 - Division of Epidemiology
Location
Campus
City
Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment
External Posting
Pay Rate Range
15.00-30.00 per hour
Close Date
10/14/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary
Hourly Research Assistants
Performs administrative, operational, and programmatic activities in support of a multidisciplinary research program. Coordinates day-to-day operations, including scheduling meetings, organizing records, preparing reports and meeting materials, and facilitating communication among investigators, staff, collaborators, and external partners. Assists with planning and implementation of research, educational, and community engagement activities and coordinates project timelines, milestones, and deliverables across multiple initiatives. Provides substantial support for the development, coordination, and submission of grant applications by assisting with proposal development, compiling and integrating application materials, coordinating contributions from multiple investigators and collaborators, tracking submission timelines, and preparing supporting documents. Assists with the preparation of scientific reports, manuscripts, presentations, progress reports, and other research dissemination products. Performs other administrative and programmatic duties as assigned in support of research and strategic initiatives. *Masters required, preference given to those who have been accepted or are currently in a PhD Program.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities
Research Assistant, II
Administrative tasks in support of the clinical research program or laboratory. Tasks will vary by department and research category. Typically, manages the front desk, organizes files, and performs other clerical duties associated with research studies and programs. Recruits participants, verifies eligibility, and enrolls subjects. Schedules participant visits and maintains records. Transports samples or laboratory equipment. Monitors inventory levels and orders supplies. Tasks will vary by department and research category.
Requires at least 1 year of related experience.
This is an Intermediate Level position in the Support track.
Job Code: S58212
Grade: S15
Expected Pay Range: $13.82 to $26.94
Research Assistant, III
Administrative tasks in support of the clinical research program or laboratory. Tasks will vary by department and research category. Typically, manages the front desk, organizes files, and performs other clerical duties associated with research studies and programs. Recruits participants, verifies eligibility, and enrolls subjects. Schedules participant visits and maintains records. Transports samples or laboratory equipment. Monitors inventory levels and orders supplies. Tasks will vary by department and research category.
Requires 3+ years of related experience.
This is a Skilled Level position in the Support track.
Job Code: S58213
Grade: S16
Expected Pay Range: $14.85 to $28.96
Research Assistant, IV
Administrative tasks in support of the clinical research program or laboratory. Tasks will vary by department and research category. Typically, manages the front desk, organizes files, and performs other clerical duties associated with research studies and programs. Recruits participants, verifies eligibility, and enrolls subjects. Schedules participant visits and maintains records. Transports samples or laboratory equipment. Monitors inventory levels and orders supplies. Tasks will vary by department and research category.
Requires 5+ years of related experience.
This is a Highly Skilled Level position in the Support track.
Job Code: S58214
Grade: S18
Expected Pay Range: $17.16 to $33.47
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:
Research Assistant, II : Requires at least 1 year of related experience.
Research Assistant, III: Requires 3+ years of related experience.
Research Assistant, IV: Requires 5+ years of related experience.
Preferences
Special Instructions Summary
This posting is closed and is no longer accepting applications.
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US