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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Lab Assistant

Campus, IL · On-site

Details Open Date Requisition Number PRN45612B Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab Assistant ... This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical ...

University of Utah

Lab Assistant

Campus, IL

Details Open Date Requisition Number PRN45612B Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab Assistant ... This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical ...

University of Utah

Lab Assistant

Campus, IL · On-site

Details Open Date Requisition Number PRN45612B Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab Assistant ... This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical ...

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How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Illinois is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

How much is a research lab assistant paid?

Research lab assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education, and the location of the lab. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often working part-time or full-time schedules in academic or research institutions.

How to become a research lab assistant?

To become a research lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring postsecondary education in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering can also improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois?

For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:

Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,809 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Lab Assistant

Campus, IL • On-site

University of Utah
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 625 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University of Utahexternal

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Details
Open Date Requisition Number PRN45612B Job Title Lab Assistant Working Title Lab Assistant Career Progression Track B Track Level FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary VP Area President Department 01451 - HCI Mahesh Chandrasekharan Lab Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range 9.62 to 17.31 Close Date 10/20/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
Performs research laboratory techniques in molecular and cell biology, drug efficacy testing, cancer biology, epigenomics using mammalian cell culture and mouse model systems under the supervision of the principal investigator.
Huntsman Cancer Institute is committed to cancer prevention, care, and survivorship for all communities within the area we serve - which includes Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming - with impact worldwide.
In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional experiences have prepared you to serve as a member of our team as we work to reduce the cancer burden experienced by all people and communities. This may include description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical care, community engagement/outreach, training, administration, or other areas relevant to Huntsman Cancer Institute's mission and this position.
Responsibilities
Performs specialized experiments using mammalian cells and the mouse model using techniques related to cell and molecular biology, cancer biology and therapeutics. (45%)
Assists the Principal Investigators in implementation and performance of protocols and procedures as well as the modification of existing techniques (35%)
Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results (15%)
Operates specialized laboratory instruments and equipment. Instructs others in their use (5%)
Maintains accurate and detailed experimental records (5%)
May train other laboratory personnel (5%)

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).
Seldom: Exposure to animals.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
One year full-time laboratory experience or equivalency required (one year full-time lab equivalency equals successful completion of two semesters college laboratory course work); knowledge of laboratory techniques, equipment and terminology as well as knowledge of chemical and physical properties of materials or substances and appropriate specimen handling techniques required. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills are also required. OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
  • Bachelor or Master's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell biology or other equivalent scientific disciplines.
  • Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology and mammalian tissue culture is preferred.
  • Demonstrated team orientation, strong organizational skills and effective communication skills.
  • Highly motivated toward discovery and application of findings to human health.
  • Working knowledge of basic statistical calculations and software.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
  • This position DOES NOT involve processing and testing clinical samples for diseases.
  • Previous experience in laboratory research is preferred.
  • Experience in molecular biology, cell biology and biochemistry techniques are preferred.
  • Our laboratory is grounded on the principle of hard work and innovative discoveries. The successful candidate will share these values.
  • A highly motivated, intrinsically curious, detail-oriented, reliable and flexible individual is preferred.
  • Those who intend to go to graduate or medical school after a 2-year period and require laboratory experience and publication record are strongly encouraged to apply.
Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

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Salt Lake City, UT, US

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