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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Aurora, CO

$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 ...

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 ...

The San Luis Valley Research Center is part of a network of 7 research centers (9 sites) throughout ... Will assist the Disease Lab Supervisor in disease testing and laboratory activities. * Assist in ...

Lab Aide 2

Boulder, CO

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Picking up glass and plastic ware from manufacturing, QC and R&D labs. * Maintain and organize ... Perform regular preventive maintenance and cleaning of various equipment. * Assist other lab ...

Post-Doctoral Fellow

Aurora, CO · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

Collaborate with mentor and other Professional Research Services professionals/students in the lab. * Assist in maintaining lab equipment and laboratory maintenance. • Mentorship 10% * Teach ...

Collaborate with mentor and other Professional Research Services professionals/students in the lab. * Assist in maintaining lab equipment and laboratory maintenance. Mentorship 10% * Teach/supervise ...

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Research Lab Assistant information

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$10

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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.
Research Services Senior Prof

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 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

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campu

Department: SOM, Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

Job Title: Research Services Senior Professional

Position #00845155 - Requisition #38943

Job Summary:

The Zyla Lab in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics is seeking a highly motivated Research Services Senior Professional to join a newly established research program focused on the structural dynamics of molecular machines. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the scientific direction of a growing lab at the interface of structural biology, biophysics, and virology, while contributing to cutting-edge research with broad implications for human health and therapeutic design.

The Research Services Senior Professional will provide hands-on laboratory and research support, as well as administrative coordination to ensure smooth and efficient lab operations. Day-to-day work will include maintaining cell culture and laboratory reagents, supporting molecular biology workflows such as cloning and plasmid preparation, assisting with ordering and inventory management, and maintaining lab records and databases. The position will also support ongoing research projects by assisting other lab members with experimental work and data generation, with the opportunity to contribute to manuscripts based on their work.

Key Responsibilities:

         Provide day-to-day laboratory support, including cell culture maintenance, plasmid preparation, cloning, and preparation of common lab reagents and stocks

         Assist with research activities by supporting experimental workflows and collaborating with lab members on ongoing projects

         Support administrative and operational tasks such as ordering supplies, maintaining inventories, and coordinating shipping and receiving

         Maintain accurate and organized lab documentation, including databases, plasmid libraries, and shared lab records

         Assist with experimental data collection, organization, and preliminary analysis as needed

         Contribute to the maintenance of a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment

         Collaborate effectively with the PI and lab members to support the overall research mission of the lab

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO

Why Join Us:

Our department conducts research across a wide biological scale for fundamental scientific understanding with applications to many disease contexts. The overarching goal is to reach a level of molecular insight that helps develop therapeutic approaches to disease.

As biochemists and molecular geneticists, we are amid an unprecedented time of discovery - our conception of the molecular biology of cells is going from the equivalent of grainy black-and-white to high-resolution technicolor. From deciphering the choreography of transcription complexes, chromosomes, and RNA molecules within cells to developing novel approaches to 3D molecular structure determination to understanding how viruses hijack a cell's machinery and alter its metabolome, the researchers in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (BMG) are at the forefronts of their fields both conceptually and technologically.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

  • Medical: Multiple plan options
  • Dental: Multiple plan options
  • Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
  • Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
  • Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
  • Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
  • Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
  • Holiday Days: 10/year
  • Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
  • ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
  • Two (2) years professional level research experience

An advanced degree (Masters or Doctorate) may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis if the degree is in a field of study directly related to the work assignment.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in biology, molecular biology, chemistry, genetics or related field
  • Three (3) years of experience in an experimental or wet laboratory

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Advanced knowledge of basic laboratory techniques including safety procedures and techniques
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution
  • Outstanding customer service skills
  • Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology medical terminology
  • Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

       .A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

.       Curriculum vitae / Resume

         Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

     Questions should be directed to: Dawid Zyla, dawid.zyla@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by 02/23/26.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $54,440 - $69,248

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

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.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.

Search Committee Charge Details:

Search Committee Chair name and e-mail: Dawid Zyla, dawid.zyla@cuanschutz.edu

Search Committee Member names and e-mail addresses:

Anthony Davis Anthony.j.davis@cuanschutz.edu

Shelly Fortner Shelly.fortner@cuanschutz.edu

 Target Dates  

Posting 2/9 reviewing 2/23 interviews 2/30, start - July


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