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Research Assistant Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Institute at Brown for Environment and Society seeks a full-time Research Assistant in-person in Providence, RI. The position reports directly to the Lead Faculty Investigator and serves ...

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator(s) and Clinical Research Coordinator, assist in acquisition and analysis of patient information for multiple clinical research projects.

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

SUMMARY Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator(s) and Clinical Research Coordinator, assist in acquisition and analysis of patient information for multiple clinical research ...

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/mo

... assist in quarterly reporting. Coordinate weekly meetings, take and distribute minutes. Support the Core in conducting trainings, which may include researching in the topic area, coordinating ...

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/mo

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator(s) and Clinical Research Coordinator, assist in acquisition and analysis of patient information for multiple clinical research projects.

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

The Research Assistant supports laboratory-based brain tumor research within the Department of Neurosurgery by conducting statistical programming, multi-omics and epigenetic data analysis ...

May use computer programming to assist in data analysis.Reviews literature pertaining to research being conducted in the scientific area of interest for information in order to better understand the ...

Research Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

May use computer programming to assist in data analysis. Reviews literature pertaining to research being conducted in the scientific area of interest for information in order to better understand the ...

... assist in quarterly reporting. Coordinate weekly meetings, take and distribute minutes. Support the Core in conducting trainings, which may include researching in the topic area, coordinating ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Assistant information

See Rhode Island salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Rhode Island is $21.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 per year. Graduate students or those working part-time may earn hourly wages between $12 and $20. Skills in data analysis and familiarity with research tools can influence compensation levels.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research assistants typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or engineering. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with research tools or software are also important qualifications.

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 high, especially for positions in prestigious institutions or specialized fields, and some roles may require prior research experience or familiarity with specific tools like statistical software.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Research jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Assistant jobs in Rhode Island? For Research Assistant jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Research Assistant jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,628 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Research Assistant

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Brown University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description:
About Brown:
Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.
Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.
About the Opportunity:
At this dynamic cross-campus center, the Institute at Brown for Environment and Society (IBES), students and faculty conduct groundbreaking research and build creative solutions to complex 21st-century problems in climate and sustainability. Work at IBES combines an understanding of the natural world and human dimensions because environmental stewardship, human rights, and economic well-being are inextricably linked.
Through our unique interdisciplinary approach, IBES cultivates actionable research outcomes, while equipping and empowering the change agents of tomorrow through our rigorous and diverse academic programs.
IBES faculty, staff, and students play key roles in the global conversation about environmental issues - on campus, at the State House, in boardrooms, and at the United Nations.
At Brown, and within IBES, we celebrate diversity in all its forms, and work together to create a collaborative, inclusive, and equitable work environment where everyone can achieve their professional goals.
Responsibilities:
The Institute at Brown for Environment and Society seeks a full-time Research Assistant in-person in Providence, RI. The position reports directly to the Lead Faculty Investigator and serves alongside a broader environmental science research team tasked with maintaining 29 multi-pollutant sensors across Providence, RI to continuously measure air quality and greenhouse gas concentrations. The purpose of this position is to lead the overall day-to-day coordination of the project, maintain project data, communicate with project constituents, create/manage a suite of communication-related projects (e.g., website content, social media content, data distribution and visualization, etc.), and assist with responsive research projects (e.g., data collection, literature review, etc).
This position is a one-year role with the potential to extend depending on funding and university need.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's of Science Degree, and 1 to 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and
    experience in community-engaged air quality research.

Job Competencies
  • Strong interpersonal, scientific writing, and communication skills
  • Related experience in organized research
  • Experience with data collection, management, and analysis
  • Experience with supporting collaborative relationships with research partners and/or stakeholders
  • Experience communicating environmental science topics with a variety of audiences and audience sizes
  • Experience with GIS

Salary Grade:
8
Additional Information:
Applicants are asked to include a resume and cover letter.
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
Benefits of Working at Brown:
Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.
Recruiting Start Date:
2026-07-31
Job Posting Title:
Research Assistant
Department:
Institute at Brown for Environment and Society
Grade:
Grade 8
Worker Type:
Employee
Worker Sub-Type:
Fixed Term (Fixed Term)
Time Type:
Full time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
37.5
Position Work Location:
Remote
Submission Guidelines:
The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.
Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.
Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.
Brown is an E-Verify Employer.
EEO Statement:
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

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