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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Reed College

Research Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Fey Lab at Reed College is looking for a Research Assistant to work on an NSF funded project aimed at understanding the ecological consequences of thermal refuges. You will be working in both a ...

Reed College

Research Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Fey Lab at Reed College is looking for a Research Assistant to work on an NSF funded project aimed at understanding the ecological consequences of thermal refuges. You will be working in both a ...

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All JobsResearch Lab JobsResearch Lab Assistant JobsResearch Lab Assistant Jobs in Oregon

Research Lab Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Oregon is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.38 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 Oregon? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,526 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Assistant Staff Scientist

Assistant Staff Scientist

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

$68K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview
The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care.
Function/Duties of Position
The Pfeifer lab is a collaborative Research group within the School of Dentistry, Department of Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences. The lab was established in 2011 and has been continuously supported by the NIH-National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, and others. We have a strong track record in the fields of Biomaterials and Polymer Chemistry, with over 150 publications and several full patents. Our focus is to develop materials solutions for use in healthcare applications (including oral) with a heavy emphasis at the interface with microbiology and host tissue interactions. We have been able to be successful in this quest thanks to a multi-disciplinary team of highly collaborative individuals, including materials scientists, clinicians, engineers, chemists and microbiologists. The work we do spans traditional materials science and cell biology. We'd love for you to join us!
Dr. Carmem Pfeifer seeks an Assistant Staff Scientist with extensive knowledge of microbiology and materials science related methods to drive research projects to academic and translational goals. This person will contribute to scientific direction of numerous projects and share the management responsibilities for lab members working on those projects. Technical expertise in the area molecular biology and molecular design, as well as collaborative research approach are key to success in this role.
Required Qualifications
  • PhD in relevant field (Bioengineering, Biology, Biomaterials, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science)
  • Doctoral degree in Biomedical Sciences or related fields and a minimum of 3 years of post-doctoral work experience in a research lab with a focus on material-tissue/biofilm interactions
  • Intimate knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology assays
  • Knowledge of how to operate various instrumentation and basic engineering principles for applications and troubleshooting with instrumentation (including at least a few of the following: Mechanical testing: universal testing machine (flexural strength, fracture toughness, dynamic mechanical analysis, rheology); Spectroscopic techniques (IR and UV-Vis, mass spec, GPC, HPLC); Imaging (SEM and confocal microscopy)
  • Ability to optimize and adapt existing molecular biology protocols for analysis of modified material surfaces
  • Familiarity with spatial analysis approaches such as spatial transcriptomics, especially for engineered tissues or on-chip systems
  • Familiarity with technical writing, including research manuscripts, methods manuscripts, patents, and other IP documentation
  • Ability to lead discussions around research projects and proactively communicate with research team members for the success of the project
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
  • Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills: both written and verbal
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems
  • Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Access, Word, and PowerPoint) on Window OS, and other advanced graphing and image design software (Prism, Origin, Photoshop, Adobe illustrator)
  • Ability to use empathy and diplomacy to support trainees and other lab members

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with molecular biology techniques, in silico docking, molecular simulations, microbiology, materials science
  • High-quality peer-reviewed publications
  • Grant writing experience
  • Small molecule synthesis
  • Peptide synthesis
  • MATLAB
  • Additive manufacturing
  • Workshop experience

Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

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