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Laboratory Research Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Participating in general laboratory operations including reagent preparation, material inventory ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Participating in general laboratory operations including reagent preparation, material inventory ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Participating in general laboratory operations including reagent preparation, material inventory ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Showing results 21-40

Laboratory Research Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$28

$53

How much do laboratory research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research associate in Portland, OR is $28.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.93 and $34.09 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 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 biochemistry. 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 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Laboratory Research jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Laboratory Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Laboratory Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,723 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

$48K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview
The Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology. Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.
Function/Duties of Position
The purpose of the position is to assist with setting up the Yang Laboratory, to provide fly husbandry and immunostaining support, and to carry out research projects in the Yang lab. In addition, the position entails help with lab up-keep and ordering and maintaining laboratory resources.
  • Perform immunostaining and confocal microscopy and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform behavioral experiments using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform imaging experiments using fruit flies and analyze resulting data.
  • Ordering, organize and manage laboratory supplies.
  • Prepare common lab reagents and solutions for scientific experiments.
  • Teach other lab members experimental and data analysis techniques.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in any field; OR
  • Associate's AND 2 years of relevant experience; OR
  • 3 years of relevant experience; OR
  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.
  • Basic laboratory skills
  • Confocal microscopy skills
  • Light sheet microscopy skills
  • Image analysis skills with FIJI, Imaris, and LuxBundle
  • Teaching/tutoring/mentoring in biology or another STEM field
  • At least 1 research project in the form of a paper (published or on bioRxiv) or an undergraduate thesis.
  • D. melanogaster husbandry, genetic screening, and microsurgery skills.
  • Skill at using FlyBase and BLAST.
  • Programming skills in Python.
  • Immunostaining.
  • DNA and RNA extraction skills.
  • NMR and IR spectroscopy skills.
  • Chromatography skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Has taken at least 1 course at an undergraduate level or higher in each of the following areas: genetics, computational biology, and developmental biology.
  • Organized, independent, and possesses problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to communicate openly to maintain effective working relationships.

Additional Details
Monday - Friday, days, with occasional evening or weekend work.
Typical laboratory environment; standing, sitting and lifting are required.
Benefits
  • Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
  • $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
  • Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Childcare service discounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses.

Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887