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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in Tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant II is a vital support position within the Peredo Lab in the Department of ... Degree in fields such as Psychology, Special Education, Communication Sciences, Human Development ...

Mercer University

$24.04/hr

Research Assistant We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Assistant to join our ... Qualifications : - Currently enrolled in the PhD program in Rural Health Sciences - Strong ...

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant will support research, writing, and editing for the Institute. The ideal ... A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. (e.g., Political Science, International ...

Medix

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Term Life Insurance Plan. Required Employment / Compliance Language Medix is committed to ... As a job position within our Clinical Sciences division, a successful completion of a background ...

Tennessee Retina

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The research assistant is primarily responsible for assisting in research patient visits according ... A day in the life of a Tennessee Retina employee is filled with learning, growing, creating, hard ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 1

Nashville, TN

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

This environment brings together clinicians, basic scientists, engineers and statisticians in close ... supervising research assistants -Preparing scientific publications (depending on written ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant 1

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

This environment brings together clinicians, basic scientists, engineers and statisticians in close ... supervising research assistants -Preparing scientific publications (depending on written ...

RXinsider LTD.

Life Science Specialist

Nashville, TN · On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Your role is essential in helping customers advance their research and manufacturing capabilities ... Life Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Bioengineering or related scientific field

New

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

This position will assist in other laboratory and research functions and work closely with post ... Conduct scientific experiments for multiple research projects within the DelGiorno Lab * Read and ...

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The position is a combination of science and administrative responsibilities. The candidate will play a crucial role in supporting research endeavors by conducting a variety of experimental ...

Mercer University

$24.04/hr

Research Assistant GRHIC (Part-Time, 20 hours/week, in-person) We are seeking a detail-oriented and ... Qualifications : - Currently enrolled in the PhD program in Rural Health Sciences - Strong ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Assistant II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... is seeking a Research Assistant II (RAII) to join our team. In this role, you'll be a key ... World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific ...

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for life science research assistant in Tennessee is $15.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $15.19 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

Life Science Research Assistant jobs near you

Research Assistant

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Position Summary:
The Research Assistant II is a vital support position within the Peredo Lab in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University. This individual will support an NIH Phase 1 clinical trial investigating a naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention (NDBI) approach for Latino families. The Research Assistant II is a 30 hour, 75% full-time term position responsible for assisting with day-to-day research operations in accordance with Vanderbilt Institutional Review Board (IRB) regulations, federal and sponsor regulations and guidelines, NIH guidelines, Vanderbilt Policies, and research protocols. The Research Assistant II reports directly to the Senior Research Associate/Project Director.
The Research Assistant II will support multiple aspects of project operations, including assisting with administrative tasks such as ordering materials and organizing meetings, supporting participant recruitment and family communication, completing phone screenings, aiding in assessment visits, performing transcription and coding, entering data, and completing assessment fidelities. This position requires bilingual competency in Spanish and English, with strong written Spanish skills; native fluency in Spanish is preferred.
Note: The anticipated duration of this role is dependent on continuing availability of funding. Work hours are flexible and based on research participant appointments and team needs, which are scheduled at all times of day, including morning, afternoon, late afternoon. This role is hybrid including days on campus and out in the field in the Nashville metro area; some remote work is allowed.
Key Functions and Expected Performance
Provide administrative support
  • Order and track laboratory and research materials and supplies
  • Organize and schedule team meetings, including preparing agendas and distributing meeting notes
  • Assist with general administrative tasks to support smooth project operations
  • Maintain organized records of project documents, correspondence, and materials

Support participant recruitment activities
  • Assist with outreach and recruitment efforts targeting Latino families in the community
  • Communicate with prospective and enrolled families in Spanish, both verbally and in writing
  • Conduct phone screenings with prospective participants to determine initial eligibility in accordance with IRB protocols
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date participant tracking logs and screening records
  • Follow up with families who require additional contact to support retention

Aid in assessment visits
  • Assist with scheduling and coordinating participant assessment visits
  • Support the administration of research assessments under the direction of senior research staff
  • Prepare assessment materials and ensure all necessary equipment and supplies are ready prior to visits
  • Complete assessment fidelity forms and checklists to ensure adherence to research protocols
  • Assist with participant navigation and hospitality during assessment visits

Perform transcription, coding, and data entry
  • Transcribe audio and video recordings of research sessions accurately and in a timely manner
  • Apply established coding schemes to transcribed data following researcher-provided guidelines
  • Enter research data accurately into REDCap and other project databases
  • Conduct data quality checks to identify and flag entry errors or inconsistencies
  • Maintain data entry logs and report data completion rates to supervising staff

Supervisory Relationships:
This position has no formal supervisory responsibilities. The Research Assistant II reports administratively and functionally to the Senior Research Associate/Project Director and the Principal Investigator.
Education and Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree is required. Degree in fields such as Psychology, Special Education, Communication Sciences, Human Development, or a related field is preferred.
  • Certification for human subjects research is required (or must be completed upon hire).

Experience and Skills:
Required
  • Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English, with strong written Spanish skills; native fluency in Spanish is preferred
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in both Spanish and English
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work professionally and sensitively with diverse Latino families
  • Demonstrated ability to complete data entry accurately and efficiently
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Ability to follow detailed research protocols and procedures with fidelity
  • Ability to lift and carry materials, walk across campus daily, and stand for extended periods
  • Access to reliable personal transportation for participant coordination and materials collection

Strongly Preferred
  • Prior experience in a research setting, particularly in clinical or behavioral research
  • Experience with REDCap or other data management systems
  • Experience with audio or video transcription
  • Familiarity with early childhood development or autism spectrum disorder research
  • Experience working with young children and families
  • Cultural competency and demonstrated commitment to equitable and inclusive research practices

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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