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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in California

Stanford University

Research Assistant

Stanford, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $31.25/hr

The Department of Neurology is seeking a full-time Research Assistant (Life Science Research Professional 1) to support, manage and facilitate the molecular-related activities in the lab whose ...

Stanford University

Research Assistant

Stanford, CA

$22.50 - $31.25/hr

The Department of Neurology is seeking a full-time Research Assistant (Life Science Research Professional 1) to support, manage and facilitate the molecular-related activities in the lab whose ...

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Life Science Research Assistant information

What is a life science research assistant?

Life Science Research Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers in conducting experiments, collecting data, and maintaining laboratory equipment in fields such as biology, biochemistry, and medicine. Their duties often include preparing samples, recording and analyzing experimental results, and ensuring laboratory compliance with safety standards. They play a vital role in helping research teams advance scientific knowledge and contribute to discoveries in health and life sciences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a life science research assistant?

To thrive as a Life Science Research Assistant, you need a solid background in biology or related sciences, laboratory techniques, and often a bachelor's degree in a life science field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as Excel or GraphPad Prism), and sometimes certifications in laboratory safety are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and collaboration within research teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing reliable research results and supporting scientific discovery.

What are some common challenges faced by life science research assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Life Science Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, learning to use new laboratory technologies, and maintaining accurate records under time constraints. Adapting to rapidly changing project priorities and troubleshooting unexpected results are also common. Building strong organizational skills, staying proactive in learning new techniques, and maintaining open communication with supervising scientists and team members can help overcome these challenges and contribute to the success of research projects.

What is the difference between Life Science Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLife Science Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, biotech companiesClinical, industrial, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsHospitals, pharmaceutical companies, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Life Science Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Research Assistants typically focus on experimental design, data analysis, and supporting research projects, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Laboratory Technicians usually handle routine lab procedures, maintenance, and sample processing, often with an associate's degree or certification. Both roles work in similar environments and are essential in advancing scientific research, but their responsibilities and educational requirements differ.

What are popular job titles related to Life Science Research Assistant jobs in California?

For Life Science Research Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Life Science Research Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Life Science Research Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Life Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Life Science Research Assistant job openings:

Life Science Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Life Science Research Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Life Science Research Professional 1

Stanford University

Stanford, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Stanford University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

We are seeking a Life Science Research Professional 1 to join a multi-disciplinary team consisting of molecular biologists, geneticists, and computational scientists. We seek to recruit an ambitious and talented LSRP that has an interest in the basic science of stem cells, cardiovascular diseases and drug discovery. The project builds on recent initiatives at the Stanford University Cardiovascular Institute Biobank (SCVI) to generate large numbers of human iPSCs for disease modeling and drug screening. The LSRP will assist in the differentiation of human iPSC lines into cardiomyocytes with the goal of building a cardiomyocyte pipeline for drug discovery studies, with promising applications for primary phenotypic screening, elucidation of novel targets, and physiological assays for evaluating cardiotoxicity. As part of the team, he or she will help establish a robust and reproducible differentiation protocol using our gene edited human iPSCs and assist future work on toxicity and drug screening using iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes.
The LSRP will be responsible for the maintenance of patient-specific iPSC, edited stem cell lines and the differentiated cardiomyocytes. He or she will also be part of a team that performs various QC assays during the differentiation process. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in stem cell culture and cardiomyocytes differentiation.
Duties include:
  • Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
  • Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
  • Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
  • Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
  • Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
  • Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.

*- Other duties may also be assigned
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • A Bachelor of Science in molecular biology or related discipline.
  • Experience and excellent practical skills in human cell culture techniques.
  • Experience in the application of a range of molecular biology methods.
  • Excellent organization and record-keeping skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with team members and collaborators.
  • Experience and understanding of biological safety regulations and procedures.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
  • General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
  • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
  • Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
  • Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
  • Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
  • Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
  • Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
  • Position may require repetitive motion.

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
  • May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
  • Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
  • Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
  • May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $32.58 to $38.48 per annum/hour. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

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