ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsResearch JobsResearch Assistant JobsResearch Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Research Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$8

$23

$33

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Portland, OR is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $27.02 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Research Assistant job openings:

Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,328 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Research Assistant

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview

The Knight Cancer Institute, known as one of the pioneers in personalized cancer medicine, is an international leader in research and cancer treatment. We are comprised of biologists, chemists, biomedical engineers, computationalists, and clinicians conducting groundbreaking translational cancer research to help people maintain a high quality of life and reduce cancer mortality, and to have a positive impact on the state of Oregon.

We are committed to increasing the diversity of the campus community. We are dedicated to promoting inclusion and multiculturalism by having outstanding researchers of diverse backgrounds work together on multiple projects. We encourage high-risk, high-reward research projects because defeating cancer requires out-of-the-box thinking and new perspectives. Our research is milestone driven to ensure that each project is fulfilling its stated goals.

Function/Duties of Position

The Traer lab at the Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology is recruiting for a Research Assistant position to join an established and collaborative team working on leukemia cell culture models for novel drug testing and development. Work performed in this position will be of basic to moderate complexity and the expectation will be that the individual in this position will be able to function with direct or general supervision.

You will be tasked with maintaining ongoing cultures of primary samples and performing long term experiments involving experimental design, drug administration, data visualization, and communication with pharma stakeholders. Experience with primary sample cell culture methods, flow cytometry, and data analysis/visualization is highly desirable. Experience with R/Python programming is also preferred.

Required Qualifications

Education and experience: 

Bachelor's in relevant field OR

Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience OR

4 years of relevant experience OR

Equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities: 

  • Excellent communication, analytical and organizational skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
  • Must possess energy and drive to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
  • Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships
  • Ability to operate scientific equipment and develop and troubleshoot experimental protocols
  • Experience handling chemical and biologically hazardous materials
  • Knowledge of policy and regulations applicable to the laboratory, including but not limited to safety
  • Demonstrated ability to learn new and innovative processes quickly
Preferred Qualifications
  • Cell culture and flow cytometry with primary patient samples
  • Aseptic tissue culture technique
  • RNA/DNA extraction and library preparation experience
  • Use and understanding of R and Python programming languages
Additional Details

Working conditions: 

  • Typical schedule: M-F roughly 9am-5pm, sometimes nights and weekends
  • Work schedule may vary depending on job/study requirements
  • Work location is primarily in the Knight Cancer Research Building.  Remote work is not a guarantee.
  • May be required to travel to other Knight worksite locations, including using the tram.
  • Lab work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low doses of radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids, presence of carcinogenic substances and human and animal tissues and fluids, including whole animals.
  • May include travel to meetings for educational purposes and/or for data presentations

Physical demands & equipment usage:

  • Ability to be comfortable with long periods of standing and/or sitting
  • Ability to occasionally lift and/or carry objects weighing up to 20 pounds, with occasional stoops and bends
  • Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Oregon Health & Science University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Oregon Health & Science University logo

About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

View All Oregon Health & Science University Jobs

Apply