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Life Science Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Folia Health

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 ...

Biotech Recruiting

Research Scientist

Poway, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

You'll design experiments, optimize formulations, and validate new molecular biology products that serve clinical diagnostics, analytical testing, and life science research markets. Your work won't ...

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How much do life science research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for life science research 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 professions make $500,000 a year?

In life science research, high-paying roles such as senior scientists, research directors, or chief scientific officers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in biotech or pharmaceutical companies. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, often combined with stock options or bonuses. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size.

What biology jobs pay over $100K?

In life science research, roles such as senior research scientist, principal investigator, or biotech director often have salaries exceeding $100,000, especially with advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically require strong expertise in molecular biology, data analysis, and project management, and may involve leadership responsibilities in laboratory or industry settings.

What is life science research?

Life science research is the scientific study of living organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms. Researchers in this field investigate the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living systems. They use a variety of techniques and tools to understand biological processes and develop solutions to real-world problems, such as disease prevention, agricultural improvements, and environmental conservation. Life science research is essential for advancing knowledge in fields like medicine, genetics, biotechnology, and ecology.

What is a life science researcher?

A life science researcher is a professional who studies living organisms, such as plants, animals, and humans, to understand biological processes and develop new knowledge. They often work in laboratories, using tools like microscopes and lab equipment, and may require specialized education or training in biology, biochemistry, or related fields.

What is the difference between Life Science Research vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLife Science ResearchLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Biochemistry, or related fieldsAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, biotech companiesClinical, industrial, or research laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageResearch and development, academia, biotech firmsQuality control, testing, routine lab procedures
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on experimental design, data analysis, and hypothesis testingFocuses on sample preparation, testing, and lab maintenance

Life Science Research involves designing experiments, analyzing data, and advancing scientific knowledge, often requiring higher education. Laboratory Technicians perform routine tests, prepare samples, and support research activities, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in scientific labs but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work scope.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

In life science research, high-paying roles such as specialized lab technicians, sales representatives for scientific equipment, or freelance consultants can reach or exceed $10,000 per month without a formal degree, often requiring relevant experience, certifications, or technical skills. These positions typically involve hands-on work, industry knowledge, and sometimes self-employment or contract work to achieve higher income levels.

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

To thrive as a Life Science Researcher, you need a strong background in biology, chemistry, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree such as a bachelor's, master's, or PhD. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and scientific writing are typically required, along with adherence to safety and ethical standards. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective collaboration enable researchers to design experiments, solve problems, and work well within a team. These skills and qualities are essential for generating reliable scientific results and advancing knowledge in the life sciences.

What are some common challenges life science researchers face when conducting experiments, and how can they be addressed?

Life science researchers often encounter challenges such as reproducibility of results, managing large datasets, and troubleshooting experimental protocols. To address these issues, it's important to maintain meticulous documentation, regularly calibrate equipment, and stay informed about best practices in experimental design. Collaborating closely with colleagues and seeking feedback can also help identify potential pitfalls early, improving both the reliability and efficiency of research outcomes.
More about Life Science Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Life Science Research jobs? Cities with the most Life Science Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Life Science Research jobs? The most popular types of Life Science Research jobs are:
What states have the most Life Science Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Life Science Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Life Science Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Life Science Research jobs are:
Life Science Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Life Science Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,815 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Life Science Research Professional 2 (1 YR FIXED -TERM)

Life Science Research Professional 2 (1 YR FIXED -TERM)

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Life Science Research Professional 2 to join Dr. Sergiu Pasca's research program in a 1-year fixed term role.

Our Stanford research team seeks to understand the rules that govern the molecular and cellular steps underlying the assembly of the human brain and the molecular mechanisms that lead to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. We are developing bottom-up approaches to generate and assemble, from multi-cellular components, human neural circuits. More specifically, we have pioneered the generation from human pluripotent stem cells of brain region-specific organoids (Nature Methods 2015; Neuron 2017; Nature Methods 2019; Nature Neuroscience 2019) and assembloids (Nature 2017; Nature Biotechnology 2020; Cell 2020), which we applied to gain mechanistic insights into disease (Nature Medicine 2018; Nature Medicine 2020). Our ultimate goal is to identify novel and reliable drug targets for neuropsychiatric disorders.

The candidate for this position will join an enthusiastic and multi-disciplinary team at Stanford, and should ideally have experience with human stem cells, neural differentiation, primary tissue culture or assay development and high-throughput screens.

For more information on the Pasca lab and research being performed please visit their website at www.pascalab.org.

Duties include:

  • Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s) related to building brain organoid and assembloid models. Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to principal investigator.

  • Independently conduct experiments (cell culture, electrophysiology) to gather data for a portion of a major research project

  • Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.

  • Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.

  • Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.

  • Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings. Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences.

  • Oversee supply and equipment budget under supervision of principal investigator or business manager.

  • Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.

  • Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.

  • Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.

*- Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge and experience with neurobiology, stem cell biology, molecular biology techniques, electrophysiology and cellular assays

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED): 

Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master's degree or PhD in a related scientific field

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

  • Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.

  • General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.

  • Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.

  • Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.

  • Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.

  • 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.

*- 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 in close proximity to 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.

  • Employee 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.

The expected pay range for this position is $85, 376- to $99,581 per annum.

Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary 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 Stanford's extensive range of benefits and rewards offered to employees. Specifics about the rewards package for this position may be discussed during the hiring process.

* - 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.

Additional Information
  • Schedule: Full-time
  • Job Code: 4952
  • Employee Status: Fixed-Term
  • Grade: G
  • Requisition ID: 108585
  • Work Arrangement : On Site

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