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Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Provides support to the clinical research coordinator or clinical research nurse. Essential Functions and Responsibilities: * Provides general administrative assistance, including but not limited to ...

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Research Assistant information

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$7

$19

$27

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Michigan is $19.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $22.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research assistant?

Research assistants are individuals who support research projects by helping with data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and administrative tasks. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor in academic, scientific, or industry settings. Research assistants may also contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications. Their role is essential in ensuring that research projects are conducted efficiently and accurately.

What does a research assistant do?

Research assistants gather and document information for their employer. As a research assistant, your responsibilities vary depending on the setting and field in which you work. Most research assistants work in academia, either in the science or humanities departments at a university, or for research institutes. Duties may include collecting data from the library and other sources, conducting surveys, and recruiting volunteers. In a laboratory setting, you may prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment, assist with experiments, and log readings and results.

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

To thrive as a Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant academic background, often with a bachelor's or master's degree in the field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is typically required. Effective communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities help Research Assistants collaborate and manage complex tasks efficiently. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, reliable research results and supporting the project's overall success.

What are some common challenges research assistants face when balancing multiple projects, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Research Assistants often juggle several projects simultaneously, which can lead to competing deadlines and shifting priorities. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with supervising researchers, use organizational tools such as project management software or detailed timelines, and regularly review progress with the team. Setting realistic expectations and proactively seeking clarification on priorities can also help ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Developing these time management and collaboration skills is crucial for success in a dynamic research environment.

What is the difference between Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectResearch AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in a related field; some roles require a master'sAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or corporate R&D settingsLaboratories, hospitals, or industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and focus on supporting research projects, data analysis, and academic studies. Laboratory Technicians usually have an associate's degree or certification and perform routine lab tests and maintenance. Both roles work in laboratory environments but serve different functions within research and clinical settings.

Do I need a degree to be a research assistant?

Research assistant positions typically require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, though some roles may accept candidates with related coursework or experience. Advanced positions may require a master's or higher degree, especially in specialized or academic research environments. Skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, or familiarity with research tools can also be important.

Do research assistants get paid a lot?

Research assistants typically earn hourly wages or stipends that vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. In general, research assistant salaries are modest compared to other professional roles, often ranging from minimum wage to mid-level pay, especially for entry-level positions or internships. Advanced skills, certifications, or working in specialized fields can lead to higher compensation.

How hard is it to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position typically requires relevant academic background, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, and strong organizational or analytical skills. Competition can be moderate to high depending on the field and institution, and some roles may require familiarity with specific tools or methodologies. Building a strong resume and gaining related experience can improve chances of employment.

What is a research assistant job salary?

The salary for a research assistant varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Graduate students or those working part-time may earn less, often paid hourly or through stipends. Skills in data analysis and familiarity with research tools can influence compensation levels.

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

The most popular types of Research jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,720 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Research Assistant - Department of Oncology

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

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Job description

Research Assistant - Department of Oncology
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant - Department of Oncology at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Perform laboratory based scientific techniques or clinical/population science (human subjects) research. Design and perform experiments, recruit participants for studies by developing surveys and interviewing candidates. Participate in implementing research objectives, ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory and protocol guidelines. Assist staff with experiments/research protocols as required. Communicate with principal investigator and Postdoctoral scholars/fellows on the status of research.
Collect and log laboratory results, clinical outcomes and/or survey data. Evaluate and perform data analysis using graphs, charts or tables to highlight the key points of the research results collected in accordance with the research protocols as stipulated. Proofread and edit research data and documents to ensure accuracy.
Assist principal investigator with writing methods and summarizing/organizing data to be used in preparing and presenting presentations for professional, scientific and academic conferences and submittal to academic and scholarly peer-reviewed journals.
Maintain the laboratory work areas including routine maintenance on laboratory equipment as required. Order and organize required research supplies and records. Maintain cleanliness and organization of work station.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Unique duties:
Provide scientific and technical support for clinical and population science research focused on improving care and resources for cancer survivors and their loved ones. - Participate in pilot testing and preparation for a larger trial of FOCUS On Us, an adapted psychoeducational intervention designed to support LGBTQ+ cancer survivors and their caregivers. - Participant recruitment and tracking, managing regulatory and IRB processes, coordinating study activities, assisting with data analysis, and contributing to the communication of research findings. - focuses on adapting educational resources from the MI-COST website (mi-cost.org) into an interactive online digital curriculum. - Participant recruitment and tracking as well as assisting with drafting and revising curriculum content in collaboration with the research team, helping develop and manage website content, coordinating and facilitating qualitative focus groups to test adapted materials, and supporting study communications such as newsletters. - Coordinate community advisory board meetings, maintain communication with community partners and participants, and support the broader research mission of the team. - Additional responsibilities may include literature reviews, protocol development, data management, manuscript preparation, and assistance with the development of new research initiatives. This position offers opportunities to gain experience in community-engaged research, mixed-methods data collection and analysis, and scientific writing. - managing day-to-day operations of human subjects research studies. Responsibilities include recruiting and consenting participants; scheduling interviews and focus groups; tracking participation; maintaining study correspondence; coordinating community advisory board meetings; managing participant and community advisory board compensation; developing and maintaining study instruments and research materials; assisting with regulatory documentation and IRB submissions; and communicating regularly with the principal investigator, lab manager, and other team members regarding study progress and issues that arise.
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree
Bachelor'sdegree in a related field of study, preferred. Requires advanced knowledge predominantlyintellectual in character in a field of science or learning acquired by aprolonged course of specialized intellectual instruction.
Experience: Entry level (less that a year of job-related experience)
Experience performing basic research techniques or interacting with humansubjects, preferred.
Knowledge,Skills and Abilities:
Abilityto work independently. Ability toanalyze, summarize and interpret research findings and data in reports and spreadsheetsand communicate results. Knowledgeof scientific integrity principles. Excellent timemanagement and organization skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills anddemonstrated ability to work with others in a collaborative environment. Microsoft office software skills.
Preferred qualifications:
Applicable experience in the conduct of public health, behavioral, or medical research is preferred. Relevant experience may include some combination of Participant recruitment and data collection in human subjects research; Managing or supporting IRB and regulatory compliance; Literature reviews, including searching, organizing, and synthesizing research evidence; Qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis; Developing and testing research hypotheses; Communicating research findings through peer-reviewed manuscripts, writing for a general audience, and/or conference or other presentations. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and email. Experience using internet search engines and citation/reference management software (e.g., Zotero). Experience with survey and data collection programs (e.g., REDCap, Qualtrics) preferred. Experience with OnCore preferred.Experience with qualitative analysis software (e.g., Dedoose) and/or statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, SAS) desirable. Familiarity with website management (e.g. WordPress) and email newsletter platforms (e.g. MailChimp) desirable.
School/College/Division:
H06 - School of Medicine
Primary department:
H0632 - Oncology
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Hourly rate:
  • Salary minimum:
  • Salary hire maximum:
Working conditions:
Typical work environment may include a laboratory and/ or office environment. May require working non-standard business hours including evenings and weekends. May be required to travel to scientific conferences.
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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