2

Part Time Research Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Student Worker

Portland, OR · On-site

$14.75 - $16.75/hr

... basic research or lab activities similar to a Research Assistant 1 or Lab Aide. Required ... Additional Details This is a part-time student worker position within the O'Roak lab, Department of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Part Time Research Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$8

$23

$33

How much do part time research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time research assistant in Portland, OR is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time research assistant, and why are they important?

To excel as a Part Time Research Assistant, you generally need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and foundational knowledge in the relevant academic field, often supported by current enrollment in or completion of a related degree program. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), online research databases, and proper citation methods is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently make someone stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, efficient collaboration with research teams, and timely completion of research projects.

What does a part time research assistant do?

As a part-time research assistant, your job is to help study or investigate a specific topic. In this role, you may work with or select participants, collect data, verify the conduct of all participants in the study, and document all collected or submitted information. Research assistants usually work for a university or research institute and specialize in a particular field. For example, if you study the earth sciences, you may qualify for a job helping research a specific question of geology. Research assistants can also work in areas like polling, public interest research, consulting, think tanks, market research, or medical research.

What is a part time research assistant?

Part time research assistants are individuals who support academic, scientific, or professional research projects on a part-time basis. They assist with tasks such as data collection, literature reviews, data analysis, and preparing reports or presentations. These positions are often held by students or individuals seeking flexible work schedules. Part time research assistants typically work under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor and contribute to advancing the goals of the research project.

How does a part time research assistant typically balance independent tasks with team collaboration?

Part-time research assistants often split their time between working independently on assignments—such as data collection, literature reviews, or preparing reports—and collaborating with faculty, graduate students, or other research team members. Regular check-ins and meetings help coordinate efforts, clarify expectations, and ensure progress on shared project milestones. Flexibility and clear communication are essential, as schedules may need to accommodate both the assistant's availability and the team's needs. This balance offers valuable experience in both self-management and teamwork, which are highly regarded in research environments.

Do I need a PhD to be a part time research assistant?

A part time research assistant typically does not need a PhD; most positions require a relevant bachelor's degree or current enrollment in a related program. Advanced degrees may be preferred for research-intensive roles, but many entry-level positions focus on skills, coursework, or prior experience in the field.

Is it hard to get a job as a part time research assistant?

Securing a part-time research assistant position typically depends on the candidate's educational background, relevant skills, and experience in research methods or data analysis. Competition can vary by field and institution, but strong academic performance and familiarity with research tools can improve chances. Many positions require a flexible schedule and good organizational skills.

What is the difference between Part Time Research Assistant vs Part Time Data Analyst?

AspectPart Time Research AssistantPart Time Data Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically a relevant degree (e.g., Bachelor's or Master's in a related field)Often a degree in statistics, data science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, laboratoriesCorporate, consulting firms, or research companies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research centers, non-profitsBusiness, healthcare, finance, technology
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research support roles, academic research jobsData analysis tasks, business insights roles

While both roles involve data handling and analysis, a Part Time Research Assistant typically supports academic or scientific research projects, focusing on data collection and literature review. In contrast, a Part Time Data Analyst often works in business settings, analyzing data to inform decision-making. The choice depends on your industry interest and desired work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Part Time Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Part Time Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Part Time Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Part Time Research Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,328 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department OverviewThe Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology. Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.Function/Duties of Position

The purpose of the position is to assist with setting up the Yang Laboratory, to provide fly husbandry and immunostaining support, and to carry out research projects in the Yang lab. In addition, the position entails help with lab up-keep and ordering and maintaining laboratory resources.

  • Perform immunostaining and confocal microscopy and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform behavioral experiments using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform imaging experiments using fruit flies and analyze resulting data.
  • Ordering, organize and manage laboratory supplies.
  • Prepare common lab reagents and solutions for scientific experiments.
  • Teach other lab members experimental and data analysis techniques.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in any field; OR

  • Associate's AND 2 years of relevant experience; OR

  • 3 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

  • Basic laboratory skills

  • Confocal microscopy skills

  • Light sheet microscopy skills

  • Image analysis skills with FIJI, Imaris, and LuxBundle

  • Teaching/tutoring/mentoring in biology or another STEM field

  • At least 1 research project in the form of a paper (published or on bioRxiv) or an undergraduate thesis.

  • D. melanogaster husbandry, genetic screening, and microsurgery skills.

  • Skill at using FlyBase and BLAST.

  • Programming skills in Python.

  • Immunostaining.

  • DNA and RNA extraction skills.

  • NMR and IR spectroscopy skills.

  • Chromatography skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Has taken at least 1 course at an undergraduate level or higher in each of the following areas: genetics, computational biology, and developmental biology.
  • Organized, independent, and possesses problem-solving abilities.

  • Ability to communicate openly to maintain effective working relationships.

Additional Details

Monday - Friday, days, with occasional evening or weekend work.

Typical laboratory environment; standing, sitting and lifting are required.

Benefits 

  • Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
  • $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
  • Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Childcare service discounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses.
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887