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Phd Research Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

... spend a year doing research in preparation for beginning a PhD program. The candidate will ... The Research Assistant will also perform experiments, contribute to manuscripts/grants/abstracts ...

Under the direct supervision of a Research Associate and a PhD student, the two assistants will develop a series of transgenic cassettes via Golden Gate cloning for Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated ...

$62K/yr

Assistant to Chair Position Summary: We are seeking a postdoctoral research associate to work on ... Recent PhD in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field with a research ...

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Phd Research Assistant information

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How much do phd research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd research assistant in Oregon is $20.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD research assistant?

A PhD Research Assistant is a graduate student, typically enrolled in a doctoral (PhD) program, who assists faculty members or research teams with academic research projects. Their responsibilities often include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, performing literature reviews, and sometimes co-authoring academic papers. This role helps students gain hands-on research experience and develop skills crucial for their academic and professional growth. PhD Research Assistants may also receive financial support or a stipend as part of their assistantship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD research assistant?

To excel as a PhD Research Assistant, you typically need strong analytical skills, advanced knowledge in your field of study, and enrollment in a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory techniques, and literature review databases is often required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities help you effectively contribute to research teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure high-quality research output, smooth teamwork, and the ability to address challenging research questions.

How does a PhD research assistant typically collaborate with faculty and other researchers in their department?

As a PhD Research Assistant, you will frequently work closely with faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, and fellow graduate students on various research projects. Collaboration often includes attending regular lab meetings, co-authoring research papers, and sharing data or methodologies. You may also assist in mentoring undergraduate students or coordinating experiments, which helps build both your research and leadership skills. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and provides valuable networking opportunities for future academic or industry positions.

What is the difference between Phd Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectPhd Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a PhD or equivalentMaster's degree or PhD, often with more experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university research projectsResearch institutions, industry labs, universities
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research centersResearch institutions, government agencies, industry
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research roles in academiaMore experienced, project management roles

The main difference is that a Phd Research Assistant is usually a graduate student or early-career researcher working under supervision, focusing on academic research projects. A Research Associate typically has more experience, may hold a master's or PhD, and often works independently or manages projects. Both roles are common in research environments, but the Research Associate position generally involves greater responsibility and independence.

Can you be a Phd research assistant with a PhD?

A Phd Research Assistant typically holds a master's degree or equivalent, and having a PhD may qualify them for more advanced research roles or senior positions. While some institutions may allow PhD holders to serve as research assistants, the role is often intended for those pursuing or holding a master's or doctoral degree, and specific requirements vary by institution and project. Having a PhD can also open opportunities for independent research and leadership within research teams.

How much do PhD research assistants make in the US?

PhD research assistants in the US typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on the institution, location, and funding source. Graduate stipends or stipends combined with hourly wages are common, and roles often include research, data analysis, and academic support responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Phd Research jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Phd Research jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Phd Research Assistant jobs in Oregon?

For Phd Research Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Research Assistant jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Research Assistant jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Phd Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Phd Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Research Assistant job openings in Oregon 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 $42,502 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Pro Tem Research Assistant/Associate/Postdoc - Optical, Molecular, and Quantum Science - Open Pool

Eugene, OR


University Of Oregon
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

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Full-time, Part-time

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Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Pro Tem Research Assistant/Associate/Postdoc - Optical, Molecular, and Quantum Science - Open Pool

Apply now Job no: 536511
Work type: Faculty - Pro Tempore
Location: Eugene, OR
Categories: Research/Scientific/Grants, Chemistry, Physics

Department: Rsch Ctr Optical Molec Quant Sci
Rank: Research Assistant, Research Associate, Senior Research Associate, Postdoctoral Scholar
Annual Basis: 12 Month

Review of Applications Begins

Applications will be reviewed as needs arise

Special Instructions to Applicants

In addition to a completed application, please submit
A current CV - must highlight research area of interest
Names and contact information for three professional references

Department Summary

The Oregon Center for Optical, Molecular, and Quantum Science (OMQ) is an interdisciplinary research center under the Vice President for Research and Innovation and seeks to promote and facilitate research and education in the sciences wherever optics, spectroscopy, quantum science, and the physical investigation of atomic and molecular processes are involved - in either fundamental aspects or technological applications. It provides administrative support and facilities to assist in carrying out scientific research, promotes scientific interactions amongst members and with the wider academic and industrial research and development communities. Researchers in the OMQ study the fundamental interactions between light and matter-leading to development of new technologies to control light and matter with extreme precision in a broad range of applications from enhanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and communications to quantum computing and sensing. Students-undergraduate, Master's and PhD-are involved in all aspects of research at the center. OMQ fosters a collegial and stimulating intellectual environment that promotes the advancement, dissemination, and application of scientific knowledge.

Position Summary

The Oregon Center for Optical, Molecular, and Quantum Science (OMQ) at the University of Oregon is seeking qualified applicants for its open research pool. Positions are limited-duration, funding-contingent research appointments that are full time, part-time or short term, contracts not to exceed one year. There is a possibility of renewal up to a total of three years, depending on program needs, funding, and performance. The successful candidate will have the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
Examples include research assistants, research associates, or postdoctoral scholars. Research assistants conduct research under the direction of a principal investigator; research associates conduct research with only general guidance; postdoctoral scholars conduct research under the direction of a faculty member for the purpose of acquiring research training: research associates conduct research with only general guidance. Successful candidates will have the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.

Minimum Requirements

RESEARCH ASSISTANT (TYPE B): Positions require a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Physics, or related field. In rare occasions, positions in specialized fields may allow for a combination of education and equivalent experience prior to the time of hire to satisfy the bachelor's degree requirement.
RESEARCH ASSISTANT (TYPE C): Positions require a master's degree in Chemistry, Physics, or related field. In rare occasions, positions in highly specialized fields may allow for a combination of education and exceptional equivalent experience prior to the time of hire to satisfy the master's degree requirement.
*Ranks for each research assistant type in ascending order are senior research assistant I and senior research assistant II.
Research Associate rank or Postdoctoral Scholar:
Terminal degree in Chemistry, Physics or related field.
Professional experience conducting research in Chemistry, Physics or related field.
Senior Research Associate I rank:
Terminal degree in Chemistry, Physics, or related field, plus 6 years of applicable work experience post-degree.
Senior Research Associate II rank:
Terminal degree in Chemistry, Physics, or related field, plus 12 years of applicable work experience post-degree.

Professional Competencies

Ability to conduct research activities under appropriate supervision and follow established research protocols.
Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of diverse backgrounds.
Strong analytical, criticalthinking, and problemsolving skills.
Ability to collect, manage, and analyze research data with accuracy and attention to detail.
Effective written and oral communication skills appropriate for research and scholarly environments.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary research team.
Commitment to maintaining a professional, inclusive, and collegial research environment.
Ability to comply with university policies, research compliance requirements, and applicable safety standards.
Strong organizational and timemanagement skills to meet research project goals and deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior research experience in optical science, spectroscopy, molecular science, quantum science, physics, chemistry, or a related interdisciplinary field.
Experience conducting experimental, theoretical, or computational research involving light-matter interactions.
Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, optical or spectroscopic techniques, or quantumrelated research tools, as applicable.
Prior research experience in optical science, spectroscopy, molecular science, quantum science, physics, chemistry, or a related interdisciplinary field.
Experience conducting experimental, theoretical, or computational research involving light-matter interactions.
Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, optical or spectroscopic techniques, or quantumrelated research tools, as applicable.
Experience analyzing and interpreting scientific data using appropriate analytical or computational methods.
Experience contributing to scholarly publications, presentations, posters, or technical reports.
Experience working in an interdisciplinary research environment that includes students at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
For research associate or postdoctoral scholar roles: evidence of increasing independence in research activities.
Experience supporting grantfunded or contractfunded research projects.


All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.

The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.

UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.

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Advertised: March 27, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: March 27, 2027 Pacific Daylight Time

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