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Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Research Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$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.

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

As the Research Assistant (RA Grade I-III), you will play a key role in supporting advanced cell culture and organoid-based research within NGNRI's Cell Culture and Organoid Facility. This position is open to candidates at varying experience levels, with responsibilities tailored accordingly. The successful candidate will begin with hands-on training in a Henry Ford Health laboratory, gaining experience in stem cell culture, organoid systems, and experimental workflows. You will then transition to NGNRI to help establish and operate its in-house organoid platform. This is an opportunity to contribute directly to high-impact research, supporting the delivery of robust, reproducible experimental systems that drive discovery and therapeutic development.
About the role
  • Perform routine and advanced mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of primary cells, stem cells, and derived cell types
  • Support generation, maintenance, and characterization of organoids and related 3D culture systems
  • Execute experimental protocols under supervision, including differentiation, treatment, and assay workflows
  • Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records in accordance with NGNRI standards
  • Assist in optimization and standardization of protocols to improve reproducibility and scalability
  • Prepare reagents, media, and materials required for experiments
  • Perform basic quality control procedures (e.g., cell viability, contamination monitoring, morphological assessment)
  • Support implementation of laboratory organization, inventory management, and equipment maintenance
  • Collaborate with other platform teams (e.g., screening, genome engineering) as needed
  • Adhere to all biosafety, regulatory, and ethical guidelines

During initial assignment at Henry Ford Health:
  • Participate in structured, hands-on training in organoid and stem cell methodologies
  • Learn and apply best practices in experimental design, execution, and documentation
  • Work closely with HFH scientists and staff to gain proficiency in relevant technologies
  • Demonstrate progressive independence and technical competency over the training period

About you
  • High integrity and commitment to rigorous scientific standards
  • Eager to learn and develop new technical skills
  • Reliable, organized, and detail-oriented
  • Collaborative and team-oriented mindset
  • Adaptable and responsive to feedback
  • Motivated by contributing to meaningful biomedical research

Preferred Qualifications
RA Grade II (Intermediate):
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree with 1-3+ years of relevant laboratory experience
  • Minimum of 2 years hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture
  • Familiarity with sterile technique and basic cell-based assays
  • Ability to execute experiments with moderate independence

RA Grade III (Advanced):
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree with 3-5+ years of relevant experience
  • Proven experience with stem cell culture, organoids, or complex in vitro systems
  • Ability to troubleshoot experiments and optimize protocols
  • Demonstrated capability to work independently and support junior staff

All Levels:
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to reproducibility
  • Maintain excellent organization and meticulous documentation of experimental procedures and results
  • Proficiency in both spoken and written English communication
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities
  • Willingness to work in a dynamic, fast-paced research environment

What you'll get
Our team members fuel our strategy, innovation and growth, so we ensure the health and well-being of not just you, but your family, too! We go above and beyond to give you the support you need on an individual level and offer all sorts of ways to help you live your best life. We are proud to offer eligible team members perks and health benefits that will help you have peace of mind. Simply put: We've got your back. Check out our full list of Benefits and Perks.
About us
The Nick Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Research Institute (NGNRI) is a nonprofit organization focused on developing treatments and cures for Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and other neurological disorders and cancers with significant unmet need. Backed by the Gilbert Family Foundation and created in partnership with Michigan State University (MSU) and Henry Ford Health (HFH), NGNRI brings together leading scientific and clinical expertise to accelerate translational discovery.
Located within a new, state-of-the-art research facility in midtown Detroit, NGNRI offers a highly collaborative environment alongside MSU and HFH. The institute is equipped with advanced platforms-including organoid and stem cell models, AI-driven analysis, FACS, and CRISPR technologies-and provides access to extensive shared core facilities.
NGNRI supports both in-house researchers and visiting scientists, creating a dynamic, mission-driven ecosystem designed to advance innovation and deliver impact in an underserved field. As part of Detroit's rapidly growing medical research campus, NGNRI offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge science within a vibrant and expanding hub.
This job description is an outline of the primary responsibilities of this position and may be modified at the discretion of the company at any time. Decisions related to employment are not based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. The company provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations in completing the application and/or participating in the application process should contact a member of the Human Resources team, at Careers@Rocket.com.