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Laboratory Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

The Research Associate will conduct laboratory studies involving molecular biology, next-generation sequencing, mammalian cell culture, and mouse models. Responsibilities may also include ...

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will maintain the laboratory research team and may exercise functional supervision over supporting research staff. Primary responsibility is ensuring that the ...

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Laboratory Research Associate information

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How much do laboratory research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for laboratory research associate in the United States is $28.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $34.13 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Laboratory Research jobs?

The most popular types of Laboratory Research jobs are:

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Infographic showing various Laboratory Research Associate job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,799 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Research Associate II - Spatial Biology (Core)

Los Angeles, CA

Cedars Sinai
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Cedars-Sinai rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Research Associate II provides critical research and operational support to the Spatial Molecular Profiling Shared Resource (SMPSR) and contributes to departmental and institutional research initiatives. This role partners with investigators and research teams to support specialized molecular profiling workflows, perform increasingly complex experimental protocols, maintain high standards of quality and documentation, and help ensure the effective operation of shared resource services. The ideal candidate brings a strong laboratory foundation, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach, with an interest in developing expertise in spatial biology and molecular profiling technologies.

Working under direct supervision, the Research Associate II performs routine and increasingly complex laboratory tasks and procedures and develops technical expertise in one or more areas relevant to research projects. The Research Associate II will participate in research activities involving all aspects of the research process, to include, but not limited to; investigation, technical, testing/validation of results, and report findings. The Associate will perform a variety of routine experimental protocols and procedures to support the objectives of laboratory research projects. The Associate will observe and comply with safety standards and procedures, assist in preparation of data for publication and/or presentation at scholarly meetings, and assist in general laboratory maintenance. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Perform specialized research services and increasingly complex experimental protocols.
  • Support workflows and operational activities for multiple investigators and research groups.
  • Conduct quality control procedures, validate experimental results, and assist with troubleshooting technical issues.
  • Maintain, coordinate, and troubleshoot specialized instrumentation and equipment.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory documentation, digital databases, operational records, and service-related tracking files.
  • Support data organization, reporting activities, and preparation of materials for presentations or publications.
  • Coordinate operational logistics, supply management, and workflow scheduling as needed.
  • Train and orient junior staff, trainees, and visiting researchers on standard operating procedures and shared resource practices.
  • Ensure adherence to institutional safety, regulatory, and operational compliance standards.

Required:

  • Bachelor's Degree Bachelors in Science Related Field - minimum
  • 1 year Research laboratory experience - minimum


Preferred:
 

  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field.
  • 1+ years of research laboratory experience, particularly within an academic research, biotechnology, genomics, or shared resource/core laboratory environment.
  • Experience with molecular biology techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, library preparation, sequencing workflows, or related molecular assays.
  • Experience or familiarity with spatial biology, spatial transcriptomics, spatial proteomics, genomics, next-generation sequencing (NGS), or molecular profiling technologies.

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