ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Assistant Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

HaML Lab

Research Assistant

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

The Human and Machine Learning (HaML) Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is seeking a research assistant. Lab studies will examine how ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch JobsResearch Assistant JobsResearch Assistant Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

Research Assistant information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Milwaukee, WI is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $25.10 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.
More about Research Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Assistant jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

For Research Assistant jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Assistant jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Assistant jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Research Assistant job openings:

Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,860 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Research Assistant

HaML Lab

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in running experimental sessions and collecting behavioral and neuroimaging data.

  • Participate in designing studies, developing tasks, and supervising data collection.

  • Engage in research activities such as literature reviews and creating research products.

Job description

The Human and Machine Learning (HaML) Lab in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee is seeking a research assistant. Lab studies will examine how human memory supports optimal decision making in both familiar contexts and new situations, using behavioral and neuroimaging data and model simulations. Lab studies will examine how human memory supports optimal decision making in both familiar contexts and new situations, using behavioral and neuroimaging data and model simulations. This volunteer position that will last for two semesters. This position is ideal for those interested in gaining research experience and the opportunity to present at conferences and co-author publications.

Background

The HaML Lab studies how humans acquire and apply knowledge to make informed decisions in a complex and uncertain world. We aim to develop a more comprehensive theory of human learning that takes into account memory limitations, motivation, and uncertainty, while explaining how memories are formed and transformed through memory consolidation. We use a combination of behavioral methods from cognitive psychology and neural measures obtained using neuroimaging, which are used to inform development of neurally informed machine learning models that mimic human behavior and brain activity. We ultimately aim to have an impact beyond the lab by informing understanding of memory problems and memory-related disorders such as PTSD. The HaML Lab is directed by Neal Morton, PhD . See the research page for more information about Dr.Morton’s previous research.

Roles

To participate in research, undergraduate researchers must first undergo Level I training in one or more of the specific research roles. Level I training involves reading about best practices and passing a short quiz. It’s most common to start with being a Study Proctor, who helps run experimental sessions. Researchers can also get involved with designing studies, developing tasks, supervising data collection for a study, or conducting literature reviews. Undergraduate Researchers can be certified as having completed training for various research roles:

  • Study Designer: Creates the experimental design for a study.
  • Study Developer: Takes an experimental design and implements it as a task.
  • Study Proctor: Runs participants through a task to collect data.
  • Study Coordinator: Supervises data collection for a study and performs quality assurance checks on the data.

Any completed training will be displayed on your profile on the lab website, which you can show to potential employers or graduate school advisors. After completing Level I training, researchers can work on a project. If they complete a certain amount of research through that project, then they will qualify for Level II certification, which then enables them to take on an independent project like writing a literature review on a topic they’re interested in or designing and running a new study. Researchers who complete an independent project and create an approved research product, such as a paper, thesis, or cognitive task, qualify for Level III certification, which indicates that they are skilled at performing some aspect of research independently.

  • Hands-on training in cutting-edge psychology and neuroscience research techniques.
  • Experience and training in working with data, data visualization, and science communication.
  • Opportunities to present research at national and local conferences, network with leading neuroscientists.
  • Professional development for graduate school or research positions.
  • A supportive culture that encourages time off and a healthy work-life balance.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Some relevant coursework in psychology, neuroscience, math, and/or statistics.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with research, especially research studies with human participants.
  • Programming experience.
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply