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Laboratory Research Associate Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Laboratory Research Associate information

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$47

How much do laboratory research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research associate in Michigan is $24.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.52 and $29.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Research jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Laboratory Research jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Michigan? For Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Laboratory Research Associate jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Laboratory Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Associate job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 20% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,636 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Research Associate - Department of Oncology

Research Associate - Department of Oncology

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Associate - Department of Oncology
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Associate - Department of Oncology at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Perform laboratory based scientific techniques or clinical/population science (human subjects) research. Design and perform experiments, recruit participants for studies by developing surveys and interviewing candidates. Participate in implementing research objectives, ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory and protocol guidelines. Assist staff with experiments /research protocols as required. Communicate with principal investigator and Postdoctoral scholars/fellows on the status of research.
Collect and log laboratory results, clinical outcomes and/or survey data. Evaluate and perform data analysis using graphs, charts or tables to highlight the key points of the research results collected in accordance with the research protocols as stipulated. Proofread and edit research data and documents to ensure accuracy.
Prepare and present presentations regarding research results for professional, scientific and academic conferences. Summarize and organize data results for submittal to academic and scholarly, peer-reviewed journals. Write scientific manuscripts and other documents for publication. Fact-check, proofread, and edit research documents to ensure accuracy.
Maintain the laboratory work areas including routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as required. Order and organize required research supplies and records. Maintain cleanliness and organization of work station.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Unique duties:
Independently conduct research activities including in vivo mouse experiments with tissue harvest, in vitro immunologic assays, experimental design and execution, computational analysis, data analysis, writing and editing of manuscripts, and contribution towards grants. - Train laboratory staff and students on laboratory and experimental protocols. - Write abstracts for presentation at local and national meetings. - Attend and contribute at laboratory meetings and journal discussions required. - Current laboratory research aims include genetic analysis of immune response, particularly in the context of cancer immunotherapy, and development and evaluation of novel imaging modalities to noninvasively interpret immune activity.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's degree in a related field of study, preferred. Requires advanced knowledge, predominantly intellectual in character, in a field of science or learning acquired by a prolonged course of specialized intellectual instruction.
Experience: Experienced (minimum 2 years of job-related experience)
Experience performing basic research techniques, preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Ability to work independently. Ability to analyze, summarize and interpret research findings in reports and communicate results. Knowledge of scientific integrity principles. Excellent time management and organization skills. Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work with others in a collaborative environment. Microsoft office software skills.
Preferred qualifications:
Extensive related experience required for Research Associate in biology or related field. - Experience with computers required.Excellent organizational, documentation and communication skills as well as team-oriented mentality required.
School/College/Division:
H06 - School of Medicine
Primary department:
H0632 - Oncology
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Hourly rate:
  • Salary minimum:
  • Salary hire maximum:
Working conditions:
Typical work environment may include a laboratory and/ or office environment. May require working non-standard business hours including evenings and weekends. May be required to travel to scientific conferences.
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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