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Lead Research Scientist

Foster City, CA

$215K/yr

The Lead Research Scientist will work alongside a dynamic team to shape and advance Visa ... Capacity to influence business partners and assist in explaining results. * Collaborate with cross ...

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$18K

$47.5K

$60K

How much do lead research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead research assistant in the United States is $47,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lead Research Assistant, you need a solid background in research methodologies, data analysis, and relevant field expertise, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), database management systems, and compliance with research ethics certifications like CITI are typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication help in coordinating teams and ensuring research quality. These skills are crucial for producing reliable results, maintaining project timelines, and fostering collaboration within research teams.

What are Lead Research Assistants?

Lead Research Assistants are experienced professionals who oversee and coordinate the activities of research teams or projects within academic, clinical, or industrial settings. They are responsible for managing data collection, ensuring adherence to research protocols, supervising junior research staff, and often assisting in the analysis and dissemination of findings. Their role bridges the gap between principal investigators and research assistants, helping to maintain the quality and integrity of research operations.

What is the difference between Lead Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectLead Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; some roles prefer or require a master'sBachelor's or master's degree; often more specialized
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, fieldwork, or office settings within research projectsResearch labs, academic institutions, or industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, healthcare, and industryAcademic, government, and private sector research
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and career progressionComparing research roles, qualifications, and job scope

The Lead Research Assistant typically supports research projects by collecting and analyzing data, often supervising other assistants. Research Associates usually have more specialized expertise, take on more independent research tasks, and may be involved in designing studies. Both roles are common in academic and industry research settings, but the Lead Research Assistant often acts as a team leader within the research support staff.

How does a Lead Research Assistant typically collaborate with principal investigators and other team members during a research project?

As a Lead Research Assistant, you act as a key liaison between the principal investigator (PI), other research staff, and sometimes external collaborators. You will coordinate the daily activities of the research team, ensure protocols are followed, and help troubleshoot any issues that arise. Regular meetings with the PI are common to discuss progress, data integrity, and next steps. Additionally, you may mentor junior assistants, delegate tasks, and facilitate communication to keep the project on track. This collaborative environment fosters both leadership development and hands-on research experience.
What cities are hiring for Lead Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Lead Research Assistant job openings:
Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview

The Department of Pediatrics is recruiting for a Research Assistant in the Pape Research Institute.

The institute is dedicated to building a state-of-the-art research facility with a focus on studying numerous childhood diseases, such as diabetes, neurological disorders, hemophilia, pediatric cancer and metabolic disorders.

Function/Duties of Position

Our lab focuses on regulation of metabolic pathways in glial and vascular cell types, and how they support neuronal and axonal functioning during brain development, and how they are affected in pathological conditions, with the goal of identifying therapeutic strategies to promote repair process. We use multi -disciplinary approaches to study the biology of glia, integrating molecular and cell signaling, biochemistry, multiplex RNA labelling, immunohistochemistry, tissue imaging, proteomics and transgenic animal models (Exposure to live animals (mice)).

Required Qualifications
  • Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR 4 years of relevant experience OR Equivalent combination of training and experience.
  • Basic molecular and cellular biology methods (DNA, RNA isolation, tissue culture).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree.
  • 1-3 years
  • Recent graduates with work experience in a research setting. 
  • Experience with mouse handling is highly desirable.
Additional Details

Apply here online. Upload cover letter and resume.  Please be sure to include months and years (MM/YYYY format) to the resume for jobs/work experience.

*OHSU Employees be sure to apply using your OHSU email.*

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.eduEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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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

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