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Life Science Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$19 - $26/hr

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Social Science Research Institute is seeking candidates for Part-Time Research Assistant positions. Responsibilities will include providing support to investigators on ...

Tamus

Research Assistant

Overton, TX

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Job Title Research Assistant Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Overton Proposed Minimum ... College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University * Texas A&M Forest Service * Texas ...

Texas A&M AgriLife

Research Assistant

Overton, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Job Title Research Assistant Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Overton Proposed Minimum ... College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University * Texas A&M Forest Service * Texas ...

The Texas A&M University System

Research Assistant

Overton, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Job Title Research Assistant Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Overton Proposed Minimum ... College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University * Texas A&M Forest Service * Texas ...

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Life Science Research Assistant information

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

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for life science research assistant in the United States is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $16.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Life Science Research Assistant, and why are they important?

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 Life Science Research Assistants?

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.
More about Life Science Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Life Science Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Life Science Research Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Life Science Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Life Science Research Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Life Science Research Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Life Science Research Assistant jobs are:
Life Science Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Life Science Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,815 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Life Science Research Professional 1 (Multiple Positions)

Life Science Research Professional 1 (Multiple Positions)

Stanford University

Stanford, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

195th of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Stanford University is seeking a Life Science Research Professional 1 to study the mechanisms of aging and rejuvenation, with a focus on diverse brain cell types in mice and humans (https://web.stanford.edu/group/twclab/cgi-bin/). This position offers a unique opportunity to independently lead components of research projects using cutting-edge approaches, including multi-omics, single-cell technologies, and next-generation sequencing. The successful candidate will contribute original scientific insights to studies of aging and rejuvenation. The role requires comfort working with mice and processing animal tissues. Primary responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments, as well as developing protocols and procedures. Additional duties include lab maintenance and assisting with the orientation and training of new lab members. This position requires either a Bachelor's degree with at least two years of research experience or a Master's degree.
Duties include*:
  • Plan approach to experiments in support of research projects in lab and/or field based on knowledge of scientific theory.
  • Independently conduct experiments; maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • Apply the theories and methods of a life science discipline to interpret and perform analyses of experiment results; offer suggestions regarding modifications to procedures and protocols in collaboration with senior researcher.
  • Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research.
  • Contribute to publication of findings as needed. Participate in the preparation of written documents, including procedures, presentations, and proposals.
  • Help with general lab maintenance as needed; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed.
  • Assist with orientation and training of new staff or students on lab procedures or techniques.
  • Plan and execute experiments and report results both with the guidance of a mentor and at times independently.
  • Ability to precisely follow directions, both written and oral.
  • Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in written format.
  • Ability to independently perform literature searches to expand conceptual and technical knowledge and troubleshoot experiments.

*- Other duties may also be assigned.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Degree in the Biological Sciences, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology preferred.
  • Willingness to learn new techniques and is passionate about doing science.
  • Experience in handling mice and conducting assessments of transgenic mice using basic molecular biology and other approaches. The job requires someone who is meticulous and highly organized.
  • Basic experience with immunostaining and cell culture. Experience with flow cytometry, transcriptomics is a plus.
  • Experience with R (running packages) or Python for data analysis and visualization is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft office (spreadsheet and word processing).

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
  • General understanding of scientific principles. Demonstrated performance to use knowledge and skills when needed.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply theoretical knowledge of science principals to problem solve work.
  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
  • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
  • Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
  • Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
  • Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
  • Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
  • Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
  • Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
  • Position may require repetitive motion.
  • Ability to work intermittently in cold-room (4C).

*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • May require working near blood borne pathogens.
  • May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
  • Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
  • Employees must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing, and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
  • May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

The expected pay range for this position is $32.58 to $38.48 per hour. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At Stanford University, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package. The Cardinal at Work website (https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/benefits-rewards) provides detailed information on Stanfordʼs extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact Stanford University Human Resources by submitting a contact form.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

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