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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Genmo

Research Engineer (New Grad)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

We are Genmo, a research lab dedicated to building open, state-of-the-art models for video ... Help optimize model performance and scaling capabilities * Assist in ensuring safe and robust model ...

Genmo

Research Engineer (New Grad)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

We are Genmo, a research lab dedicated to building open, state-of-the-art models for video ... Help optimize model performance and scaling capabilities * Assist in ensuring safe and robust model ...

Flourish Research

Research Assistant

Walnut Creek, CA

$21 - $22/hr

We are actively hiring a Research Assistant to support our Walnut Creek, California site. Shift ... Help manage study supplies, lab kits, and other trial materials * Maintain confidentiality and ...

Flourish Research

Research Assistant

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

We are actively hiring a Research Assistant to support our Walnut Creek, California site. Shift ... Help manage study supplies, lab kits, and other trial materials * Maintain confidentiality and ...

Flourish Research

Research Assistant

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

We are actively hiring a Research Assistant to support our Walnut Creek, California site. Shift ... Help manage study supplies, lab kits, and other trial materials * Maintain confidentiality and ...

Sutter Health

Pathology Lab Assistant III

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$38.13 - $53.37/hr

... researchers, and other members of the patient care team; and other routine pre-analytic and post-analytic processes necessary to support health care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring ...

Sutter Health

Pathology Lab Assistant III

Burlingame, CA

$38.13 - $53.37/hr

... researchers, and other members of the patient care team; and other routine pre-analytic and post-analytic processes necessary to support health care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring ...

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Research Lab Assistant information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

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$36

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Berkeley, CA is $24.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $28.27 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 job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Berkeley, CA are:

What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:

Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,565 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Abrahamsson Lab - Research Assistant - Computational Chemistry (Junior Specialist)

University of California, San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Application Window
Open date: July 9, 2026
Most recent review date: Friday, Jul 24, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Sunday, Jan 9, 2028 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Research Assistant - Computational Chemistry (Junior Specialist)
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) - Mission Bay Campus
Abrahamsson Lab (PI: Dr. Dimitri Abrahamsson)
We are seeking a motivated individual to join our research group as a part-time Computational Chemistry Research Assistant. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of computational chemistry and analytical instrumentation, with the potential to extend to full-time depending on performance and project needs.
About the Role
You will help develop and apply computational methods to solve outstanding problems in high-resolution mass spectrometry. The work draws on a combination of approaches, including quantum chemical calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning. You will work alongside an interdisciplinary team in the Abrahamsson Lab and gain hands-on experience with techniques widely used in modern chemical and biophysical research.
Responsibilities
  • Set up, run, and analyze quantum chemical and molecular dynamics calculations
  • Develop and apply machine learning models to chemical and spectrometric data
  • Process, interpret, and visualize computational and experimental results
  • Document methods and findings, and contribute to group discussions and meetings

Qualifications
  • Recent graduate with a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, computer science, or a related field or at least four years of research experience.
  • Coursework or demonstrated experience in computational or physical chemistry
  • Programming experience (e.g., Python) is strongly preferred
  • Familiarity with quantum chemistry software (e.g., Psi4, ORCA, Gaussian), molecular dynamics packages (e.g., GROMACS, AMBER, OpenMM), or machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, scikit-learn, TensorFlow) is a plus but not required
  • Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000-$58,600.
How to Apply
Please click here to apply with a cover letter, CV, and contact information for two references. In your cover letter, briefly describe your relevant background, your interest in the position, and your availability. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The selected candidate must meet all the qualifications at the time of appointment.
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Cover Letter - In your cover letter, briefly describe your relevant background, your interest in the position, and your availability.
  • Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
  • Statement of Research (Optional)

Reference requirements
  • 2 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
Job location
San Francisco, CA

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