ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Laboratory Research Associate Jobs in California

City of Hope

Senior Research Associate

Monrovia, CA · On-site

We have a current opening for a Senior Research Associate (SRA). Under minimal direction of the ... Trains laboratory research staff in specialized procedures, equipment and theoretical concepts ...

Lancesoft INC

Research Associate

Foster City, CA · On-site

$36 - $39.85/hr

Research Associate - I Location: Foster City, CA Duration: 6+ months contract Pay rate: $39.85/hr ... The successful candidate will help maintain laboratory operations, ensure instrument readiness ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLaboratory Research Associate JobsLaboratory Research Associate Jobs in California

Laboratory Research Associate information

See California salary details

$11

$27

$52

How much do laboratory research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research associate in California is $27.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.54 and $33.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Laboratory Research Associate?

A Laboratory Research Associate is a professional who assists in conducting scientific experiments and research in a laboratory setting. Their responsibilities typically include preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining detailed records of experiments. They work under the supervision of senior scientists or researchers and play a crucial role in supporting research projects across fields like biology, chemistry, medicine, or environmental science. This position requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laboratory Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laboratory Research Associate, you need a solid background in biological or chemical sciences, laboratory techniques, and typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard lab equipment is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart. These abilities ensure accurate data collection, reliable experiment execution, and smooth collaboration within research teams.

What are some common challenges Laboratory Research Associates face when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Laboratory Research Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which can present challenges in time management and maintaining accuracy. Coordinating schedules for equipment usage, tracking sample progress, and adhering to strict protocols require strong organizational skills. Effective communication with team members and careful documentation help mitigate errors and ensure experiments run smoothly. Learning to prioritize tasks and quickly adapt to changes in project priorities is essential for success in this role.

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

AspectLaboratory Research AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant science fieldAssociate degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, often involved in experiments and data analysisLaboratory settings focused on sample preparation and testing
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaceuticalsHospitals, clinical labs, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles, data analysis, and project supportCompared for technical support, sample handling, and testing tasks

The Laboratory Research Associate typically holds a higher degree and is involved in experimental design, data analysis, and research projects. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians focus on sample processing, testing, and supporting laboratory operations. Both roles are essential in scientific settings but differ mainly in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What qualifications do you need to be a laboratory research associate?

A laboratory research associate typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Laboratory skills, familiarity with scientific methods, and experience with lab equipment are also important; some positions may require additional certifications or advanced degrees for specialized roles.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Associate jobs in California?

For Laboratory Research Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Research Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Research Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Laboratory Research Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Laboratory Research Associate job openings:

Laboratory Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,578 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Laboratory Research Associate

Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, Dr. Qiongyu Hao, the Laboratory Research Associate supports both the animal colony operations and the routine bench work of the laboratory's translational cancer research program. The successful candidate divides time between ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare and breeding management and performing routine cancer research procedures, including cell culture, molecular biology assays, and drug treatment/functional assays. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity and consistency of the laboratory's scientific output across both the in vivo and in vitro arms of the research program, which spans exosome biology, cancer metabolism, and small-molecule drug discovery in breast cancer and acute myeloid leukemia.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Oversee weaning and maintain accurate breeding records to ensure line sustainability.
  • Assist research staff with experimental procedures such as tail/ear snipping for DNA collection, injections (IP, SC), oral gavage, and tissue harvesting.
  • Perform routine PCR-based genotyping and maintain a digital database of animal strains and genetic statuses.
  • Conduct health checks and clinical observations; report any abnormalities or welfare concerns to the Principal Investigator and veterinary staff immediately.
  • Maintain and passage cancer cell lines (e.g., TNBC, AML) under sterile conditions; perform routine cell counting, viability assays, and cryopreservation.
  • Perform routine RNA/DNA/protein extraction, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting to support ongoing cancer research projects.
  • Assist with in vitro drug treatment experiments, proliferation/apoptosis assays, and routine data collection.
  • Assist with routine isolation and characterization of extracellular vesicles/exosomes using established core platforms, under supervision.
  • Ensure all activities strictly adhere to IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) protocols and institutional biosafety guidelines.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment, monitor room parameters (temperature/humidity), and ensure all surgical and procedural equipment is sterilized.
  • Maintain inventory of laboratory reagents, chemicals, and supplies needed for ongoing studies.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:
EDUCATION:
  • B.S. or Associate degree in Biology, Animal Science, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science field.

EXPERIENCE:
  • Direct experience handling and restraining small rodents.
  • Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (cancer cell lines preferred) and standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blot, ELISA).
  • Proficiency in basic laboratory math and digital record-keeping.
  • Familiarity with aseptic techniques is highly preferred.
  • Prior experience with in vivo animal models (mouse/rat) is a plus.
  • Prior experience with extracellular vesicle/exosome isolation or characterization is advantageous but not required.

KNOWLEDGE/ABILITY/SKILLS:
  • Exceptional reliability and punctuality, as consistent care is critical for animal welfare.
  • Strong communication skills for coordinating with diverse research teams.
  • Ability to follow complex Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with high precision.
  • Able to troubleshoot and resolve routine technical difficulties.
  • Committed to supporting a translational Cancer Research program.

COMPLEXITY:
  • The ability to perform highly detailed work with sustained attention and care while providing/obtaining information on numerous inquiries is paramount to success in this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Frequent handling of small animals, standing, and walking. Constant sitting, climbing, reaching high/low levels, finger movement, feeling, speaking clearly, hearing conversationally, and seeing far and near.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job, including animal facility and standard wet-laboratory settings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

MENTAL DEMANDS:
  • The mental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Frequent work on a variety of unrelated tasks. Constant calculating, interrupted work, work on a variety of interrelated tasks, and use of sustained concentration, reasoning, judgment, resourcefulness, analytical ability, and ingenuity.

Special Requirements:
  • Ability to work effectively with a diverse community.
  • The ideal candidate will be seeking a career supporting translational Cancer Research and able to make a long-term commitment.

Compensation:
  • $70,340 - $93,468

Position Status:
  • Full Time, Exempt

EEO Statement: Charles R. Drew University is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity. Applicants will be considered without regard to gender, race, age, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, disability or covered veteran status.
Fair Chance Statement: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local "Fair Chance" laws
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply