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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in Rensselaer, NY

Research Analyst

Albany, NY · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

... solutions * Assist with or develop formal and informal research training for attorneys ... life sciences, political law, product liability, public finance, tax, and trusts and estates. The ...

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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 Rensselaer, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Life Science Research Assistant jobs in Rensselaer, NY are:

What cities near Rensselaer, NY are hiring for Life Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rensselaer, NY with the most Life Science Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Life Science Research Assistant job openings in Rensselaer, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Life Sciences & Biotechnology Researchers

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY • On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Life Sciences & Biotechnology Researchers
Job no: 495984
Work type: Full Time, Part Time, Seasonal or Temporary
Location: Troy, NY
Categories: Research: Life Sciences & Biotechnology, Researchers and Research Support
Who we are
Why Rensselaer? Join Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's dynamic global community of changemaker including some of the world's leading researchers, students, alumni, and faculty who ask the important questions and devise the scientific and technological innovations that make the world a better place for all of humanity.
Nestled on a beautiful 275-acre campus in upstate NY, Rensselaer is home to five schools, 32 research centers, three makerspaces, an observatory, one of the world's fastest supercomputers, and IBM's Quantum System One - the first university-based quantum computer in the world.
Over the past decade, the research portfolio at Rensselaer has been completely transformed. As a top-tier technological research university, Rensselaer has invested in strategic partnerships, talented researchers, and sophisticated research platforms to address the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century.
Today, the Rensselaer research enterprise comprises $104 million in annual research expenditures, supports a diverse range of research centers and platforms, and ensures the advancement of interdisciplinary research in six key areas:
  • Life Science & Biotechnology (Bioscience, Bio Manufacturing, Diagnosis)
  • Future Computing (Data / AI, High Performance Computing, Quantum, Bits/Neurons/Qubits)
  • Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (Energy Solutions, Built Environment, Freshwater, Sustainability)
  • Materials & Manufacturing (Mat. Discovery, Mat. Processing, Advanced Manufacturing, Robotics)
  • Microelectronics (Mat. & Metrology, Hardware Co-design, Computational Microelectronics, Hetero-integration)
  • Fundamental Knowledge (AstroX, Origins, Cognitive & Social, Financial)

RPI is a leader in the field of life sciences and biotechnology, offering a dynamic environment for research and innovation. The Shirley Ann Jackson, Ph.D. Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies (CBIS) is a key component, focusing on fundamental and translational research to address global health challenges. RPI's Biological Sciences department provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for various career paths in research, medicine, and industry. The institute's commitment to interdisciplinary research and innovative education positions it as a significant player in the biotechnology sector.
The Office for Research collaborates with important external partners in the federal and state government, foundations and in industry to expand the impact our work and to support our world-class researchers as they improve lives, advance society, and change the world.
The mission of the Office for Research is to drive and support the Research Enterprise, increase Rensselaer impact and visibility, and communicate to the national and international community that Rensselaer researchers are defining the frontiers of discovery and innovation.
Rensselaer faculty and alumni include more than 145 National Academy members, six members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six National Medal of Technology winners, five National Medal of Science winners, # astronauts, and a Nobel Prize winner in Physics. With nearly 200 years of experience advancing scientific and technological knowledge, Rensselaer remains focused on addressing global challenges with a spirit of ingenuity and collaboration. To learn more, please visit www.rpi.edu.
Are you ready to change the world? Apply now!
Job summary
Some of the areas that may be hiring researchers and research support positions in the area of Loife Sciences & Biotechnology include:
  • https://biotech.rpi.edu/
  • https://cemsim.rpi.edu/
  • https://rare.rpi.edu/
  • https://research.rpi.edu/research-centers/baruch-center-biochemical-solar-energy-research
  • Bioscience
  • Bio Manufacturing
  • Diagnosis

Note: The availability of positions is dependent on the availability of sponsored funding. Not all areas will have all positions, and some areas may be fully staffed.
Qualifications
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate -
    • Candidates must have finished all requirements for their PhD or foreign equivalent at the beginning of their appointment
  • Research Associate or (Sr.) Research Scientist -
    • Opportunities exist for those with a relevant advanced degree, publication record, and/or significant additional years of paid professional experience in a related position. Individuals who possess these qualifications and who have the potential to, or a demonstrated track record of being able to build collaborative external partnerships are especially desirable
  • (Sr.) Research Specialist -
    • Positions require a relevant bachelor's degree / foreign equivalent or higher
  • (Sr.) Research Engineer -
  • Research Assistant -
    • candidates must possess an associate's degree / foreign equivalent or relevant combination of experience, education and training

Pay transparency
Pay transparency disclosure: The actual salary/wage that is provided to selected candidates will be determined based on factors that include the available budget, internal equity, and the needs of the department, and the final candidate's qualifications, experience, education, and other job-related credentials. The following hiring ranges are provided as Rensselaer's good faith estimate of the expected hiring range at the time of posting.
Postdoctoral Research Associate: $62,354 - $65,000 / yr
Research Associate: $64,000 - $66,000 / yr
Research Scientist: $66,000 - $95,000 / yr
Sr. Research Scientist: $80,000 - $138,000 / yr
Research Specialist: $18.00 - $26.44 / hr
Sr. Research Specialist: $62,354 - 66,000 / yr
Research Engineer: $66,000 - $86,000 / yr
Sr. Research Engineer: $87,000 - $95,000 / yr
Research Assistant: $16.00 - $22.00 / hr
Application instructions
Follow the on-screen prompts to create an application. Please be ready to upload any required documents, such as your resume and cover letter
If you need assistance with the online application process, please contact careers@rpi.edu
Job posted date
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Total Compensation and Benefits Information
Rensselaer's Total Compensation Program is designed to provide stable pay growth, a comprehensive and affordable benefits package, and a comprehensive and affordable retiree medical and prescription plan. Rensselaer is recognized locally and nationally for the depth and breadth of its compensation and benefits program. Our goal is to provide you and your family with a comprehensive health and welfare program as an umbrella of financial security and protection during your employment. For more information, please visit Benefits | Human Resources (rpi.edu).
Rensselaer is committed to the cultivation of a community that is welcoming, inclusive, and above all values learning. We welcome candidates who bring a variety of perspectives to Rensselaer's work and campus communities.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or other characteristic protected by law.
Advertised: 12 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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