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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Assistant

Centennial, CO · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

... Research Organisation services. Eurofins is one of the market leaders in certain testing and ... Work closely and communicate with other lab associates to complete daily activities efficiently

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Aurora, CO · On-site

$49K - $67K/yr

... research independently. * Aid in and independently write manuscripts/grants. We want you to publish! * Assist with training of junior or new employees/students and with day-to-day lab duties. Work ...

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Research Lab Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Colorado is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Lab Assistant, you need a background in laboratory sciences, attention to detail, and knowledge of standard lab procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with lab equipment, safety protocols, and data management systems such as LIMS is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively set standout candidates apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining laboratory safety, and supporting research productivity.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research lab assistants typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent; many positions prefer or require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or psychology. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment or data analysis tools are also important qualifications.

How much is a research assistant paid?

Research lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education level, and the complexity of the research. Salaries can vary based on the institution, location, and whether the position is part-time or full-time.

What are some common challenges faced by Research Lab Assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Research Lab Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously, maintaining accuracy in data collection, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on lab work can be demanding, especially during busy project phases. Effective time management, clear communication with the research team, and organization skills are essential to successfully navigate these challenges. Proactively seeking clarification and regular training on lab procedures can also help minimize errors and improve efficiency.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Research lab assistants typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Full-time positions may offer annual salaries between $25,000 and $45,000, often with opportunities for skill development and certification in laboratory techniques.

What does a Research Lab Assistant do?

A Research Lab Assistant supports scientists and researchers by preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring the lab is clean and organized. They may also be responsible for documenting results, ordering supplies, and following safety protocols. Their role is essential for the smooth functioning of research projects and helps advance scientific studies efficiently.

What does a research assistant do in a lab?

A research lab assistant supports scientific experiments by preparing materials, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining lab equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under the supervision of lead researchers and may use tools like microscopes, lab software, and data recording systems. Attention to detail and basic knowledge of scientific methods are important for this role.

What is the difference between Research Lab Assistant vs Research Technician?

AspectResearch Lab AssistantResearch Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's degree or specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, assisting with experimentsLaboratory, often more hands-on with equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsResearch institutions, healthcare, biotech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesClarifying technical support roles in labs

The main difference between a Research Lab Assistant and a Research Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Research Lab Assistants typically support experiments and perform basic lab tasks, often requiring an associate's degree. Research Technicians usually have more technical duties, including operating equipment and data collection, often with similar or additional certifications. Both roles are vital in research environments, but the Research Technician generally has more technical responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Colorado? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,283 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Professional Research Assistant

Professional Research Assistant

University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, CO • On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Requisition Number:

69124

Location:

Boulder, Colorado

City

Boulder

State

Colorado

Employment Type:

Research Faculty

Schedule:

Full-Time

Date Posted:

16-Dec-2025
Close All
Job Summary
A Professional Research Assistant Position is available in the Park laboratory in the MCDB Department at University of Colorado-Boulder. We study mechanisms of the proteasome, a molecular machine essential for cellular protein degradation. We recently discovered mechanisms of "novel spatial quality control" during proteasome assembly; see our recent paper by Das et al. Nature Communications, 2025, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-58703-8. This new mechanism involves evolutionarily conserved chaperones, including Gankyrin, a known onco-protein in humans. A prospective Professional Research Assistant will be trained to conduct basic molecular and cell biological experiments, including yeast strain manipulation and live-cell imaging, and will be responsible for general housekeeping duties in the lab. To learn more about our research, please refer to the website (https://www.colorado.edu/mcdb/soyeon-park).
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
The Park Lab in the Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department at the University of Colorado Boulder

(https://www.colorado.edu/mcdb/soyeon-park)

Dr. Park's laboratory studies the biogenesis of a molecular machine known as the proteasome, a major protease in eukaryotes. Her studies have changed the traditional view of the spontaneous formation of the proteasomal ATPase ring, via revealing conserved novel assembly chaperones for regulating assembly of the heterohexameric ATPase complex of the proteasome. These four chaperones (Rpn14, Nas6, Hsm3, and Nas2) principally act as negative regulators of proteasome assembly, by coupling with ATP hydrolysis. Her laboratory focuses on elucidating; (i) biological functions of active dissociation via these chaperones, (ii) mechanisms of an assembly-coupled degradation via an oncorpotein and assembly chaperone, Gankyrin in cancers, and (iii) signaling pathways for active disassembly of the proteasome via the chaperones during stress. Her work will provide major insights into the fundamental regulatory mechanisms for the proteasome and controlled protein degradation.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
  • A prospective Professional Research Assistant will be trained to conduct basic molecular and cell biological experiments, including yeast strain manipulation and live-cell imaging, and will be responsible for general housekeeping duties in the lab.
What We Can Offer
$38,500 - $44,000 annually.
Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.
What We Require
  • Bachelors Degree in Biology or related field.
What We Would Like You to Have
  • Proficiency in basic molecular biology (PCR, restriction digest, mini-prep, DNA gels).
  • Experience with structural biology & basic biochemistry (protein extraction, quantification, protein gels) is a plus.
  • Effective use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and related softwares (e.g. Adobe Photoshop).
Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
  1. Resume/CV
  2. Cover letter that addresses the following:
    • What is your current employment (if any), and why are you looking for a new position?
    • When are you available to start a new position?
    • Describe your ideal work environment and the work schedule.
    • Describe your experimental laboratory experience in detail.
    • What are your short and long-term professional goals? 
During the application process you will need to enter contact information for a reference. We will request a letter of recommendation and additional materials, if needed, as the search progresses.

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version (if applicable) as an optional attachment.

For full consideration, please apply by December 19th, 2024. The position will remain open until filled.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs. 

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

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