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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in Missouri

Research Assistant - Kansas City, MO Work Setup: On-site Scheduled Weekly Hours: 24 Hours/Week ... life sciences and healthcare industries. We create intelligent connections to accelerate the ...

$18 - $24.75/hr

... Research Assistant ... Established in 2025, the lab conducts preclinical (basic science and translational) studies into ...

Research Assistant Provide general research support related to social science on assignments of low to moderate complexity Conduct literature reviews, statistical analysis of primary and secondary ...

$17.10 - $29.09/hr

Document Research, Laboratory Processes, Scientific Research Grade R07-H Salary Range $17.10 - $29 ... 09 / Hourly The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across ...

... advanced scientific research related to transportation materials research. Analyze the data ... Use advanced knowledge, abilities and skills to provide advanced computer analysis and to assist ...

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Life Science Research Assistant information

See Missouri salary details

$4

$15

How much do life science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for life science research assistant in Missouri is $15.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $15.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Missouri?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Life Science Research Assistant job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,544 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Research Assistant, Senior

Saint Louis, MO • On-site


Saint Louis University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.
The Research Assistant, Senior performs complex experiments and other research activities as directed by the research investigator. This can include but is not limited to: sets-up and operates various scientific apparatus; assists with research projects and performs independent research; maintains inventories of laboratory items; performs various clerical and editorial duties including research papers; compiles, processes and analyzes data. Performs various clerical duties including completes applications and forms.
PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists with research projects; performs independent research; plans, designs and implements research projects; prepares and maintains culture media, reagents, and animal colonies, performs experiments on mice, including injections, health monitoring, and dissection of experimental animals; grows cultures; administers injections; performs various assays; sterilizes equipment; separates and purifies various materials and substances using such techniques as chromatography and electrophoresis; orders laboratory supplies; performs library research; prepares compounds; interprets experimental test data; performs minor equipment repairs; cuts, stains and mounts specimens
  • Sets-up and operates various scientific apparatus; sets-up and operates centrifuges, incubators, homogenizers, and various microscopes
  • Performs various clerical duties
  • Compiles processes and analyzes data; records research procedures and results; files and maintains records; codes data for input for electronic data processing; inputs and retrieves data using computers
  • Performs other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Broad knowledge involving laboratory techniques or other specialized knowledge is desired
  • Knowledge of laboratory procedures: cell culture and in vitro assays, immunoblotting
  • Knowledge of the use and preparation of culture media, chemicals, and reagents
  • Verbal and written communication skills
  • Interpersonal/human relation skills
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to tend to details
  • Ability to maintain records and inventories
  • Ability to operate a personal computer

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in science or a closely related field
  • Previous experience in basic science research

Function
Lab Support
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.


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