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Postgraduate Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

MCG and its teaching hospitals also provide postgraduate education to approximately 575 residents ... Research Assistant to participate in a variety of research projects. Current projects involve ...

Research Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... for students, postgraduate scholars, and physicians; and nurture the research of Department ... research assistant to gain experience for future careers in the biomedical area. This at-will ...

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Postgraduate Research Assistant information

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How much do postgraduate research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for postgraduate research assistant in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectPostgraduate Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in a master's or doctoral program; relevant coursework or research experienceMaster's or PhD degree; more advanced research experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university research projectsResearch institutions, universities, industry labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch institutions, government agencies, industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles in academiaClarifying advanced research positions and responsibilities

The main difference between a Postgraduate Research Assistant and a Research Associate lies in experience and educational requirements. Postgraduate Research Assistants are usually students pursuing advanced degrees involved in research projects, while Research Associates are more experienced professionals with higher qualifications, often working independently on research tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but they differ in responsibilities and career stage.

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

To thrive as a Postgraduate Research Assistant, you typically need a relevant postgraduate degree, strong analytical skills, and experience with academic research methods. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or NVivo), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is often required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and effective time management help you excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate, high-quality research outputs and successful collaboration within academic teams.

What are some common challenges faced by a Postgraduate Research Assistant when balancing research duties and academic commitments?

Postgraduate Research Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, including supporting faculty-led research projects, attending seminars, and progressing on their own academic coursework or thesis. Time management is a frequent challenge, as deadlines for research deliverables and academic assignments can overlap. Collaborating with senior researchers and other assistants requires strong communication skills and adaptability, especially when project priorities shift. However, this balancing act provides valuable experience in multitasking and teamwork, which are highly regarded in both academic and industry settings.

What are Postgraduate Research Assistants?

Postgraduate Research Assistants are individuals, usually enrolled in a postgraduate degree such as a master's or PhD, who assist academic staff with research projects. Their responsibilities may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and helping prepare research reports or publications. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in research methodologies and is often a stepping stone for those considering an academic or research-focused career.
What cities are hiring for Postgraduate Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Postgraduate Research Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postgraduate Research jobs? The most popular types of Postgraduate Research jobs are:
What states have the most Postgraduate Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Postgraduate Research Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Postgraduate Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,571 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Research Assistant (Part Time)

Research Assistant (Part Time)

MKS2 Technologies

Monterey, CA

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

MKS2 Technologies, LLC, an award-winning high growth small business, creates innovative and customer-centric technology solutions in the areas of Cyber Security, Instructional Design and Training, Software Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well-being of our clients. Our commitment to excellence and our "Mission First" orientation has resulted in steady growth and an expanding client base across government agencies. We have employees nationwide and for the past three consecutive years were named one of the fastest growing Veteran-owned companies in the nation. Please take a moment to browse through our website and learn more about what it means to serve with MKS2.


Research Assistant – Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV)

Location: Monterey, CA – Naval Postgraduate School (Onsite)
Position Title: Research Assistant / Engineering Research Scientist

Salary: $55,000-$60,000 Part Time 20 hours a week.

Position Overview

The Research Assistant – UUV supports the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Physics Department in conducting advanced experimental research on unmanned underwater vehicle technologies. This role contributes directly to Navy‑sponsored research by executing experiments, analyzing data, developing optimized designs, and producing high‑quality scientific documentation. The position requires hands‑on laboratory and field work, technical rigor, and the ability to operate independently in a government research environment.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Conduct research studies evaluating UUV feasibility, performance characteristics, and system features
  • Execute experimental research in both laboratory and field environments
  • Perform data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of experimental results
  • Develop optimized designs, geometries, and engineering recommendations
  • Produce scientific reports, research documentation, and academic papers
  • Support UUV laboratory operations, equipment preparation, and field testing activities
  • Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and technical teams to refine methodologies and outputs
  • Ensure all research deliverables meet established quality, accuracy, and technical standards
  • Part‑time position: 20 hours a week.

Required Qualifications

Experience

  • Minimum 1 year of experience in STEM‑based experimental research
  • Minimum 1 year of experience with:
    • Computer‑Aided Design (CAD) and/or 3D printing
    • Designing and executing research experiments
    • Writing scientific reports, articles, or papers
  • Minimum 6 months of experience with:
  • Laboratory work involving Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)
  • Field testing of UUV systems

Education

  • Master's degree in one of the following fields:
  • Physics
  • Applied Physics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering

Clearance / Eligibility

  • U.S. Citizenship required
  • Ability to work onsite in a government laboratory environment

Other Required Skills

  • Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD tools
  • Strong experimental design and data analysis capabilities
  • Ability to operate independently within a non‑personal services environment
  • Strong technical writing, documentation, and analytical skills

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: MKS2 Technologies is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.