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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs in Rochester, MI

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Bachelor's Degree in any area of social science research (including political science, anthropology, demography, education, geography, psychology, public health, social work, sociology, survey ...

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... Background in environmental science, biological science, environmental stewardship, green ...

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Life Science Research Assistant information

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 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 job categories do people searching Life Science Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Life Science Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, MI are:

What cities near Rochester, MI are hiring for Life Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MI with the most Life Science Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Life Science Research Assistant job openings in Rochester, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 10% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

$19 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Assistant
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITES
  • Provide coordination assistance on multi-funded and/or multi-site research projects.
  • Assist project director in project planning to ensure that pre-established work scope, study protocol, and program requirements are followed.
  • Develop and maintain recordkeeping systems and procedures for project-specific reporting.
  • Assume responsibility for coordinating crime prevention research duties for AmeriCorps members involved in the AmeriCorps Urban Safety Project (AMUS).
  • Assist in coordinating multiple crime prevention survey data collection efforts for one or more research projects - may include other collaborating agencies or institutions.
  • Represent AMUS at local AMUS events, community gatherings, workshops, and trainings (must be available nights and weekends).
  • Integrate information from multiple sources to meet the necessary requirements of funding agencies.
    Prepare regular updates to Center Director and Managing Director.

Unique duties:
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATONS
  • Bachelor's Degree in any area of social science research (including political science, anthropology, demography, education, geography, psychology, public health, social work, sociology, survey methodology, statistics, and urban studies) required.
  • Experience coordinating AmeriCorps members required.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with others.
  • Strong problem resolution, organizational, analytical, and communication (oral and written) skills; ability to collaborate effectively.
  • Strong diplomatic skills to present, answer questions and concerns effectively to groups.

Please submit an electronic application viathe Wayne State University Online Career Site. Please include a resume,names of references, and transcript (unofficial).
Preferred qualifications:
School/College/Division:
Generic Division
Primary department:
Center for Urban Studies
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Hourly rate:
  • Salary minimum: 45,000
  • Salary hire maximum: 50,000
Working conditions:
Normal Office Environment
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 2
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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