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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

University of Kentucky

Research Assistant

Lexington, KY · On-site

$15.61 - $24.99/hr

Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator and senior lab members, the Research Assistant will perform routine laboratory experiments and standard techniques, process and maintain ...

University of Kentucky

Research Coordinator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$19.56 - $31.29/hr

... Lab Coordinator/ Research Technician Department Name 8E300:Biology Work Location Lexington, KY ... This is an exciting opportunity to assist in launching and supporting the innovative Belin ...

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Lab Technician, Corporate

Butler, KY · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

... research activities. Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Nothing in this restricts management ... Report when items reach reorder point. * Assist with technical projects as directed by Laboratory ...

Darling Ingredients

Lab Technician, Corporate

Butler, KY · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

... research activities. Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Nothing in this restricts management ... Report when items reach reorder point. * Assist with technical projects as directed by Laboratory ...

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Research Lab Assistant information

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How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Kentucky is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.05 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 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 software are also important qualifications.

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.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research lab assistant position can be competitive and often requires relevant coursework, strong organizational skills, and sometimes prior research experience. Candidates with good academic records, familiarity with laboratory tools, and the ability to follow protocols tend to have better chances of obtaining such roles.

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 and data collection by preparing materials, maintaining equipment, and recording results. They often follow protocols, assist with analysis, and ensure the smooth operation of laboratory activities, typically requiring attention to detail and familiarity with lab tools and safety procedures.

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.

Do research lab assistants get paid?

Research lab assistants typically receive compensation for their work, which can include hourly wages or stipends, depending on the institution or organization. Payment rates vary based on experience, education level, and the specific lab or project, and some positions may require prior training or certifications. Many research labs also offer opportunities for skill development and hands-on experience in scientific methods and equipment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Kentucky? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,576 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Research Lab Program Manager II

Research Lab Program Manager II

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY • On-site

$103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

University Of Louisville rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department:
Location:
Health Sciences Center
Time Type:
Full time
Worker Type:
Regular
Job Req ID:
R108923
Minimum Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Science or a related field and six (6) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Garde 8 (Salaried)
Position Description:
The Research Lab Program Manager II in the Department of Pediatrics Division of Hematology/Oncology will oversee the daily operations of the Barve Laboratory, which studies hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) dysfunction in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and other conditions, with a particular focus on senolytic and mobilization-based therapeutic strategies to restore bone marrow health. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with murine hematopoietic models, flow cytometry, and HSC transplantation/mobilization assays, together with laboratory management experience. The candidate will conduct preclinical efficacy studies of senolytic agents and HSC mobilization regimens in SCD mouse models, and will support flow cytometry-based and single-cell characterization of hematopoietic progenitor populations. The candidate will oversee operation of the mouse colony, including SCD and humanized models, and will provide technical support and training to postdoctoral fellows, students, and staff in core techniques (CFU assays, flow cytometry). The candidate is also expected to oversee lab inventory, ordering, and workflow optimization, and to help ensure compliance with IACUC and institutional safety protocols. Excellent organizational and communication skills are essential.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conduct preclinical efficacy studies of senolytic agents (e.g., ABT-263/navitoclax) in mouse models of Sickle Cell Disease.
  • Develop, adapt, and execute HSC mobilization protocols in mouse models.
  • Perform and adapt single-cell characterization assays for hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
  • Conduct flow cytometry analysis of HSPC populations, including senescence and DNA damage markers.
  • Perform bone marrow and blood collections, CFU assays, and competitive/limiting-dilution transplantation studies.
  • Manage the mouse colony, including breeding, genotyping oversight, and compliance with IACUC protocols.
  • Provide technical training and support to postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research staff.
  • Oversee laboratory operations, including inventory, ordering, equipment maintenance, and workflow optimization.
  • Assist with data compilation, organization, and preliminary analysis for grant reporting and publications.
  • Maintain QA/QC standards for laboratory assays and procedures.
  • Ensure compliance with laboratory safety protocols and institutional regulatory requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Sample preparation techniques.
  • Strong background in research coordination and management.

Competencies
  • Experimental execution, performance, and data collection.
  • Research Protocol Scientific Terminology Flexible - ability to change directions as needed for the benefit of laboratory.
  • Performance Excellence - high responsibility, pleasant to work with, provides timely and accurate information.
  • Organized - manages time effectively, keeps tasks appropriately prioritized.
  • Critical Thinking - ability to think through issues and identify appropriate options.
  • Work Ethic - motivated, diligent, industrious and persistent in the workplace, stays on tasks to completion, works at a fast pace to ensure optimal efficiency.
  • Interpersonal - can build effective, strong working relationships with colleagues and management through trust, communication, and credibility.
  • Teamwork - ability to work with others, serve others, help others, take directions from others in the interest of moving process and programs forward to the desired outcome

Target Compensation Maximum:
$103,067.00
Target Compensation Minimum:
$68,711.00
Compensation will be commensurate to candidate experience.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Louisville is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. The University strives to provide equal employment opportunity on the basis of merit and without unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status, or pregnancy. In accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veteran Readjustment Act of 1974, the University prohibits job discrimination of individuals with disabilities, Vietnam era veterans, qualified special disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans. The University acknowledges its obligations to ensure affirmative steps are taken to ensure equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of the University that no employee or applicant for employment be subject to unlawful discrimination in terms of recruitment, hiring, promotion, contract, contract renewal, tenure, compensation, benefits, and/or working conditions. No employee or applicant for employment is required to endorse or condemn a specific ideology, political viewpoint, or social viewpoint to be eligible for hiring, contract renewal, tenure, or promotion.
Consistent with applicable law, demographic information is collected for aggregate reporting requirements. Demographic information provided through this application is not available to hiring managers/committees and is not considered in hiring or employment decisions.
Assistance and Accommodations
Computers are available for application submission at the Human Resources Department located at 2315 South First Street Walk, Room 02C - Louisville, Kentucky 40292.
If you require assistance or accommodation with our online application process, please contact us by email at employment@louisville.edu or by phone 502-852-6258.

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