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Research Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.65 - $26.11/hr

Performs research laboratory assignments, various and diversified in nature, in accordance with standard practices and procedures. Schedule 8:30 AM-5 PM Strong Candidate Identified The University of ...

Research Technician I

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.65 - $26.11/hr

Performs research laboratory assignments, various and diversified in nature, in accordance with standard practices and procedures. SUPERVISION AND DIRECTION EXERCISED: None. MACHINES AND EQUIPMENT ...

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Research Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Rochester, NY is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.14 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.

How much is a research assistant paid?

Research assistants typically earn between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on their experience, education level, and the industry or institution. In some cases, they may receive stipends or salaries ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 annually for full-time positions, especially in academic or research settings.

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 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.

What exactly does a research assistant do?

A research assistant supports research projects by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data, often using tools like spreadsheets or statistical software. They may also review literature, prepare reports, and assist with experiments or fieldwork under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor.

How to get work as a research assistant?

To work as a research assistant, candidates typically need a relevant educational background such as a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in research methods and data analysis, and applying to positions through university departments, research institutions, or online job boards are common steps. Strong organizational skills and proficiency with tools like statistical software can improve chances of employment.

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 research assistants?

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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Research jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY? For Research Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,984 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Research Specialist I

Research Specialist I

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY • On-site

$47K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 179 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

400832 Neurology/CTN Glial Disease

Work Shift:

Range:

UR URG 107

Compensation Range:

$47,972.00 - $67,161.00

The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.

Responsibilities:

Provides direct research support at the professional entry level in a Neuroscience laboratory. Is responsible for routine ang non-routine tasks including mouse colony management and research assignments. Is responsible for conducting and analyzing a set of experiments that comprise a coherent part of a larger project; and researching and resolving technical problems within the scope of those experiments.

Responsibilities:

  • Works independently with only occasional suggestions in modifying, varying or adapting standard laboratory procedures in a variety of moderately-complex rodent surgery, microscopy including time- lapse imaging, histological procedures, laboratory tests, analyses and observations which may require nonstandard procedures and complex instrumentation. Troubleshoots malfunctioning equipment and makes simple repairs
  • Works in tandem with lab associates in handling multiple transgenic and mutant animal colonies, maintaining databases of mouse colony mating and lineages. Verifies colony census and maintains records of DLAM procedures. Corresponds regularly with the animal resource department and lab on animal colony matters.
  • Analyzes histological material with computer-aided microscopy. Performs analyses and scientific data reductions by using standard methods and develops modifications of standard methods to meet special situations.
  • Teaches laboratory techniques and instrumentation procedures to students and laboratory technical support staff; and counsels them on technical problems.
  • Routinely (at least once per month) prepares progress reports on personal projects within the larger group. Searches for literature for reference to technical problems involved in research projects, prepares charts, graphs and tables; and assists in preparation of materials for publication.
  • Orders supplies for lab procedures and maintains histological and related laboratory equipment.

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in biological discipline or related field.
  • One year of applicable experience in laboratory setting.
  • Or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Applicants should be self-motivated and capable of working independently as well as in a collaborative setting.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including written communication.
  • Ability to readily learn new experimental techniques.
  • Strong analytical, communication, organizational and computer skills.

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University's Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create - and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status,or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.


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