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Laboratory Research Assistant Jobs in Edison, NJ

Columbia University

Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$22.85 - $27.58/hr

Position Summary The UEIL is seeking a grant fund (yearly) Research Assistant (RA)/Technician to assist in the day-to-day technical tasks of the laboratory. RA will be responsible for maintaining ...

HSS

Post Baccalaureate Researcher

New York, NY · On-site

$50K - $76K/yr

What you will be doing Exciting opportunities exist for a Research Assistant (RA) or Post-Baccalaureate Scholar position in Dr. Lionel Ivashkiv's research laboratory at the Hospital for Special ...

Stevens

Part-Time Research Assistant

Hoboken, NJ

$30 - $35/hr

Davidson Laboratory is seeking a research assistant to perform testing in the wave tank on an oscillating surge wave energy converter with the objective of implementing Reinforcement Learning for ...

Stevens

Part-Time Research Assistant

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Davidson Laboratory is seeking a research assistant to perform testing in the wave tank on an oscillating surge wave energy converter with the objective of implementing Reinforcement Learning for ...

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Laboratory Research Assistant information

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How much do laboratory research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research assistant in Edison, NJ is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.89 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 Edison, NJ?

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

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Edison, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Research Assistant jobs in Edison, NJ are:

What cities near Edison, NJ are hiring for Laboratory Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Edison, NJ with the most Laboratory Research Assistant job openings:

Laboratory Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Assistant job openings in Edison, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, and 55% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,598 per year, or $21 per hour.

Research Assistant

Columbia University

New York, NY • On-site

$22.85 - $27.58/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

  • Job Type: Support Staff - Non-Union
  • Bargaining Unit:
  • Regular/Temporary: Temporary
  • End Date if Temporary: 9/1/2027
  • Hours Per Week:
  • Standard Work Schedule:
  • Building: Morningside
  • Salary Range: $22.85 - $27.58

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Position Summary
The UEIL is seeking a grant fund (yearly) Research Assistant (RA)/Technician to assist in the day-to-day technical tasks of the laboratory. RA will be responsible for maintaining breeding colonies, running behavioral assays, perfusions, tissue processing for immunohistochemistry, microscopy, sample preparation for qPCR, RNAseq, spatial sequencing including histochemical and biochemical assays. Additional duties and responsibilities include (not limited to) checking and maintaining stocks and solutions in lab, staying up to date with regulatory trainings, and general lab support. We are seeking a motivated individual with a strong background in neuroscience or molecular biology, and strong history of working with small animals in a laboratory setting.
There is potential for growth and opportunities with this position and is to be expected. This is an ideal position for a recent graduate looking to pursue further graduate studies or medical professions.
UEIL is led by Dr. Konofagou, in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, we are a translational science lab focused on using ultrasound in the areas of real-time imaging and as a theranostic tool in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. This position will be assisting on studies using focused ultrasound in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders as well as support other groups as need.
Responsibilities
(20%)
Assist with mouse colony handling: Breed and maintain transgenic mouse lines; monitor and address animal health reports.
(20%)
Run mouse behavioral experiments; Handling small animals and perfusions.
(20%)
Assist in maintenance of lab safety protocols; Maintain a clean and tidy laboratory environment and upkeep of inventory, including ordering of supplies; equipment maintenance and service contracts; Monitor chemical waste accumulation and schedule waste pickups.
(15%)
Prepare reagents for the lab (e.g., 1X PBS, 70% Ethanol); Sample preparation for qPCR, RNAseq, spatial sequencing, and biochemical assays.
(10%)
Tissue preparation/Imaging: Perform cryostat sectioning and immunohistochemistry; Develop and perform immunohistochemical staining protocols followed by microscopy for the detection of relevant markers.
(10%)
Sample preparation for qPCR, RNAseq, spatial sequencing, and biochemical assays.
(5%)
Performs other tasks, duties, and responsibilities as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Required:High-school Diploma or equivalent required.
Experience: Minimum 0-3 months of experience in a research environment or experience handling rodents in a laboratory setting and/or wet-laboratory experience
Skills and Knowledge: The ideal candidate must be able to work independently, be self-motivated, and positively contribute. to labs aims and objectives. Strong organization, communication, and computer skills. Ability to prioritize, work independently and under direct supervision from senior lab personnel.
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to individuals with prior experience working with independently with animals (i.e. breeding, behavior, surgery) and laboratory experience (can include undergrad volunteering in research lab) in chemistry, biology, physics, or related science, although neuroscience or behavioral psychology is highly preferred; Ability to do basic programming in Python or MATLAB is helpful but not required.
Other Requirements
  • Type other requirements and/or special indicators if CUIMC

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