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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24.04 - $33.65/hr

... * Assist with general lab duties including ordering of supplies and maintenance of laboratory equipment. * Attend lab meetings and read current journal articles pertaining to relevant projects.

Research Assistant

Campus, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

The research assistant will directly assist PI and PI lab and able to work with cell culture, processing clinical specimens and animal studies. This person must have adequate wet lab (ELISA ...

... unique research and powerful solutions illuminate the path toward greater innovations for the ... Position Summary The Lab Assistant/phlebotomist- Outreach Operations position plays a critical role ...

... unique research and powerful solutions illuminate the path toward greater innovations for the ... Position Summary The Lab Assistant/phlebotomist- Outreach Operations position plays a critical role ...

We are seeking a Part Time Laboratory Assistant to support our Molecular (PCR) laboratory. The ... Prior lab experience preferred (clinical, research, or academic settings). * Proficient in ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Lab Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 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 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 does a research lab assistant get paid?

Research lab assistants typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, education level, and the location of the laboratory. Some positions may offer additional benefits or stipends for working in specialized environments or during certain hours.

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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% 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.

$24.04 - $33.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department

BSD HGD - Luca Lab


About the Department

The central intellectual theme of our department is to understand the roles of genetics and epigenetics in patterning pheno-typic variation in natural populations and in human evolution, health, and disease.


Job Summary

As a member of the Luca Lab in the Department of Human Genetics, the candidate is expected to work on assigned projects as well as to carry out research activities in collaboration with other personnel in the lab, performing human functional genomics and genetics, and host-microbiome interaction research.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with carrying out research using the following techniques: Next-Generation Sequencing, PCR, Quantitative RT-PCR, DNA/RNA purification, cloning, reporter gene assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation, ATAC-seq, mammalian cell and tissue culture (cell lines and primary cells/tissues), isolation of primary cells from human tissue, single cell genomic assays.

  • Assist with general lab duties including ordering of supplies and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

  • Attend lab meetings and read current journal articles pertaining to relevant projects.

  • Performs other related work as needed.

  • Maintains technical and administrative support for a research project.

  • Analyzes and maintains data and/or specimens. Conducts literature reviews. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.

  • Installs, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.

  • Performs other related work as needed.


Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.


Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.


Certifications:

---

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in biology or related field.

Experience:

  • Familiarity with the following techniques (or ability to rapidly learn the techniques): PCR, Quantitative RT-PCR, DNA/RNA purification, cloning, reporter gene assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation, mammalian cell and tissue culture, single cell and bulk genomic assays.

  • Experience with computers.

  • Familiarity with Next Generation Sequencing protocols.

  • Familiarity with isolation of primary cells from tissue is a plus.

Preferred Competencies

  • Excellent organizational and communication skills and desire to maintain good relations with co-workers.

Working Conditions

  • Research Lab.

Application Documents

  • Resume (required)

  • Cover Letter (preferred)


When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.


Job Family

Research


Role Impact

Individual Contributor


Scheduled Weekly Hours

40


Drug Test Required

No


Health Screen Required

No


Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No


Pay Rate Type

Hourly


FLSA Status

Non-Exempt


Pay Range

$24.04 - $33.65

The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.


Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.


Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.


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