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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA

Research Assistant I

Boston, MA

$21 - $28.75/hr

... the scientific and intellectual life of the lab and the Department of Genetics. Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant will execute experiments in ...

... the scientific and intellectual life of the lab and the Department of Genetics. Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant will execute experiments in ...

Build relationships with clinicians and life science researchers to inform study design and ground it in the lived patient experience. * Support the scientific interpretation of longitudinal data ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$24 - $26.92/hr

Guided by our core values-Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... Life insurance * Paid time off * Parental leave * Professional development assistance Adams ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$24 - $26.92/hr

Guided by our core values--Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... Life insurance * Paid time off * Parental leave * Professional development assistance Adams ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$24 - $26.92/hr

Guided by our core values-Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... Life insurance * Paid time off * Parental leave * Professional development assistance Adams ...

Research Scientist

Boston, MA · On-site

$98K - $125K/yr

Build relationships with clinicians and life science researchers to inform study design and ground it in the lived patient experience. * Support the scientific interpretation of longitudinal data ...

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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 job categories do people searching Life Science Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Life Science Research Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Life Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Life Science Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Life Science Research Assistant job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Research Assistant, Nephrology

Boston, MA • On-site


Boston Medical Center
Hospitals • 1 - 5K employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

547th of 1,064 rated hospitals

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$21 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

The Research Assistant will support clinical research activities in the Waikar Research Group within the Nephrology Section. Responsibilities include participant recruitment and scheduling, administering questionnaires, reviewing medical records, managing study data, maintaining research databases, and assisting with administrative and regulatory tasks. The Research Assistant may also assist with basic bio specimen handling, sample processing in compliance with established protocols, and manuscript preparation.
This role works closely with the Research Program Manager and other research staff to support research operations in both clinical and research settings.
Position: Research Assistant, Nephrology
Location: Boston, MA
Schedule: 40 hours per week, On-site
ABOUT BMC:
At Boston Medical Center (BMC), our diverse staff works together for one goal - to provide exceptional and equitable care to improve the health of the people of Boston. Our bold vision to transform health care is powered by our respect for our patients and our commitment to ensure everyone who comes through our doors has a positive experience.
You'll find a supportive work environment at BMC, with rich opportunities throughout your career for training, development, and growth.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Research Assistant will support clinical research activities using approved techniques. Responsibilities include supporting participant recruitment and scheduling, administering questionnaires, reviewing participant charts and extracting relevant study data, maintaining participant databases, and assisting with preparation of reports and study documentation. This position requires comfort working in both clinical and research environments and collaborating as part of a team to support study participants and research operations.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Recruits and screens clinical research candidates. Interacts with participants by phone, email, and in person to support recruitment activities, study coordination, and visit scheduling.
  • Completes informed consent documents and enrolls participants in the research protocol. The Research Assistant must be able to answer participant questions and explain the clinical trial in an easily understood and meaningful manner to participants.
  • Collects, documents, and submits study data and samples accurately and efficiently.
  • Works collaboratively with the Research Program Manager and other research staff to support daily study operation, ad hoc duties as assigned.
  • Schedule: 40 hours/week, 100% in person. Requires the ability to work a varying daily day schedule driven by clinic operations and participant study visits.

The above statements in this job description are intended to depict the general nature and level of work assigned to the employee(s) in this job. The above is not intended to represent an exhaustive list of accountable duties and responsibilities required
JOB REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATION:
  • A minimum of a Bachelor's degree is required at the time of hiring, with preference for a degree in chemistry, biology, or other science.

EXPERIENCE:
  • Prior experience in clinical research and/or public health preferred

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate professionally with participants, providers, and research staff in person, by phone, and via email.
  • Spanish or Haitian Creole speaking candidate preferred, not required.
  • Cultural sensitivity and comfort with a wide range of social, racial, and ethnic populations.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (i.e. MS Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook) and web browsers. Experience with statistical software preferred.
  • Must be able to maintain strict confidentiality of all personal & health sensitive information.

JOB BENEFITS:
  • Competitive pay
  • Tuition reimbursement and tuition remission programs
  • Highly subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance options
  • Career Advancement/Professional Development: Access a wealth of ongoing training and development opportunities that will not only enhance your skills but also expand your knowledge base especially for individuals pursuing careers in medicine or biomedical research.
  • Pioneering Research: Engage in groundbreaking research projects that are driving the forefront of biomedical science.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:
As the primary teaching hospital for Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and BU schools of public health and dentistry, intellectual rigor shapes our inquiries. Our research is led by a belief that skin color, zip code, and financial circumstances shouldn't dictate health.
Boston Medical Center is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. If you need accommodation for any part of the application process because of a medical condition or disability, please send an e-mail to Talentacquisition@bmc.org or call 617-638-8582 to let us know the nature of your request.
Compensation Range:
$16.35- $22.84
This range offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications. However, our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and a broad range of factors is considered when making an offer. This includes education, experience, skills, and certifications/licensures as they directly relate to position requirements; as well as business/organizational needs, internal equity, and market-competitiveness. In addition, BMCHS offers generous total compensation that includes, but is not limited to, benefits (medical, dental, vision, pharmacy), discretionary annual bonuses and merit increases, Flexible Spending Accounts, 403(b) savings matches, paid time off, career advancement opportunities, and resources to support employee and family well-being.
NOTE: This range is based on Boston-area data, and is subject to modification based on geographic location.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans
According to the FTC, there has been a rise in employment offer scams. Our current job openings are listed on our website and applications are received only through our website. We do not ask or require downloads of any applications, or "apps" job offers are not extended over text messages or social media platforms. We do not ask individuals to purchase equipment for or prior to employment.

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About Boston Medical Center

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Boston Medical Center (BMC) is more than a hospital. It's a network of support and care that touches the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in need each year. It is the largest and busiest provider of trauma and emergency services in New England. Emphasizing community-based care, BMC is committed to providing consistently excellent and accessible health services to all-and is the largest safety-net hospital in New England. The hospital is also the primary teaching affiliate of the nationally ranked Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) and a founding partner of Boston HealthNet - an integrated health care delivery systems that includes many community health centers. Join BMC today and help us achieve our Vision 2030 which is a long-term goal to make Boston the healthiest urban population in the world.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1996


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