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Research Assistant Jobs in Needham, MA (NOW HIRING)

247Hire

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Assist a Harvard faculty member with course and curriculum development efforts, scholarly research and data collection efforts. Contribute to the faculty member's research in ways that typically ...

247Hire

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Assist a Harvard faculty member with course and curriculum development efforts, scholarly research and data collection efforts. Contribute to the faculty member's research in ways that typically ...

Worcester Polytech

Research Assistant

Worcester, MA · On-site

$21/hr

JOB TITLE Research Assistant LOCATION Worcester DEPARTMENT NAME Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM DIVISION NAME Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI SUMMARY Multiple PhD Research Assistant ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Research Assistant will support data analysis, data visualization, measurement tasks, writing and publication tasks, and other activities for EASEL Lab research-practice partnerships.

Northeastern University

Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Northeastern University is seeking a Research Assistant in the Computational Optics and Translational Imaging Lab to support NIH-funded projects focused on neuroimaging research. The role involves ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$53/hr

We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and structural MRI/ behavioral testing for several projects. This position is ideal for anyone considering ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

We are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to assist with all study phases of functional and structural MRI/ behavioral testing for several projects. This position is ideal for anyone considering ...

NorthEastern

Research Assistant

Boston, MA

$48K - $66K/yr

About the Opportunity The Research Assistant (Neuroinformatics) in the Computational Optics and Translational Imaging (COTI) Lab at Northeastern University will support NIH-funded projects focused on ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I

Boston, MA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

The Research Assistant will maintain rigorous electronic laboratory records, contribute to the development of new experimental methods, present results at internal group meetings, and have the ...

Northeastern University

Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

About the Opportunity The Research Assistant (Neuroinformatics) in the Computational Optics and Translational Imaging (COTI) Lab at Northeastern University will support NIH-funded projects focused on ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant I

Boston, MA · On-site

$52/hr

The Research Assistant will maintain rigorous electronic laboratory records, contribute to the development of new experimental methods, present results at internal group meetings, and have the ...

Emerson College

Research Assistant, FACE Lab

Boston, MA · On-site

$22.85 - $27.40/hr

We are hiring a Research Assistant for a newly NIH-funded project at the FACE Lab at Emerson College. The project's aims are to identify facial expressions and other non-verbal behavior that can ...

Emerson College

Research Assistant, FACE Lab

Boston, MA · On-site

$22.85 - $27.40/hr

We are hiring a Research Assistant for a newly NIH-funded project at the FACE Lab at Emerson College. The project's aims are to identify facial expressions and other non-verbal behavior that can ...

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Research Assistant information

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$9

$23

$34

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Needham, MA is $23.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.74 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.
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Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Needham, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,644 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Research Assistant

247Hire

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Assist a Harvard faculty member with course and curriculum development efforts, scholarly research and data collection efforts. Contribute to the faculty member's research in ways that typically include writing and editing, data and information gathering, designing qualitative and quantitative research. Gain understanding of the research subject matter. Plan and conduct interviews, surveys, and literature reviews. Synthesize findings, analyze and interpret results. Assisting with the creation of presentations, summaries and articles on research topics. The Corporate Net-Zero Emission Targets Project, with support from the Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability, is seeking Research Assistants (RAs). In this project, faculty and researchers at the Harvard Business School, Harvard Kennedy School, and Harvard Law School are evaluating voluntary corporate goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For these Research Assistant (RA) positions, the tasks will focus on collecting data from firms' sustainability reports, which will include tracking and reviewing reports, analyzing their carbon commitment statements, and converting this information into structured data. The primary responsibility of Research Assistants is to review and analyze firms' sustainability reports, focusing on their carbon commitment statements, and transform this information into structured, high-quality data. This role involves: Tracking and reading sustainability reports from various firms. Analyzing qualitative content, including carbon commitment statements and other environmental goals. Codifying qualitative data into structured datasets in Excel. Ensuring accuracy, consistency, and reliability of the collected data to support the project's empirical research. The position requires close attention to detail, an ability to follow instructions precisely, and the discretion to exercise sound judgment when interpreting ambiguous or nuanced statements. Ideal candidates will excel in a role that demands both meticulousness and independent thinking. Sustainability Research/Sustainability Reports (The main skillset needed) Climate Policy Cabron Data Coding #J-18808-Ljbffr

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About 247Hire

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Oak Brook, IL, US

Year founded

2002

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