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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Labcorp

Lab Assistant

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

... researchers, pharmaceutical companies and health systems make confident decisions and improve ... Labcorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team in Itasca, IL . Work Schedule: Monday-9:00-5 ...

Labcorp

Lab Assistant

Itasca, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $20/hr

... researchers, pharmaceutical companies and health systems make confident decisions and improve ... Labcorp is seeking a Lab Assistant to join our team in Itasca, IL . Work Schedule: Monday-9:00-5 ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Lab Assistant

Lemont, IL · On-site

Government Research / Advanced Materials Hourly Pay: 25-30/hr Benefits: Start Right Away Our ... Monitor, record, and analyze experimental data, ensuring accuracy and consistency. * Assist ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

Certified Group

Micro Lab Assistant

Aurora, IL · On-site

Labstat - A global leader in contract research and testing for nicotine, tobacco, cannabis, hemp ... Job Summary The Lab Assistant within the Media Department is responsible for preparing, sterilizing ...

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All JobsResearch Lab JobsResearch Lab Assistant JobsResearch Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

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How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $23.80 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,417 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Senior Research Technologist (Meeks Lab)

Senior Research Technologist (Meeks Lab)

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Northwestern University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

204th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: MED-Urology
Salary/Grade: NEX/15
Target hiring range for this position will be between be range is as be $27.06-$33.50 per hour . Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Job Summary:
Conducts complex experimental research in a research lab, functioning as a specialist or technical expert. May manage one or more phase(s) of a major project(s) or all activities of a small project. May ensure overall lab compliance with all associated rules and regulations.
The Meeks Lab is seeking a Scientist who will oversee the operations of the laboratory, develop and manage foundational research projects in bladder cancer, especially the management of complex molecular biology techniques (single cell RNA-seq and digital spatial profiling), oversight of our mouse colony, and help in collaborations with investigators at NU. Our laboratory is vibrant, collaborative international group, fully supportive of each other to identify cures for bladder cancer. We are seeking to recruit a new laboratory manager that will make will manage daily operations of a research lab.
More specifically, the Scientist will:
  • Help to supervise experiments and infrastructure of the lab, including mouse colony management, molecular biology techniques, cell culture, and genetic and protein analyses.
  • Directly participate in experiments, and assist other laboratory members with cell culture experiments, single-cell RNA-seq and digital spatial profiling
  • Independently plan, perform, and analyze experiments, and collaborate with PI on writing papers and grants;
  • Serve as technical resource to, graduate and post-graduate trainees and provide insight, advice and guidance on experimental technologies for cancer research.
  • Supervise and train lab support staff and oversee day-to-day operations of the laboratory, develops, implements & administers budgets, grant & administrative procedures.
  • Assist in IACUC and laboratory research safety protocols, reviews technical operations ensuring that all processes, protocols & procedures are quality controlled & functioning up to standards
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Acting as a technical expert or specialist in a particular field within a research lab, establishes and optimizes protocols and coordinates conduct of multiple complex experiments.
Molecular Biology:
  • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression
  • Southern, Northern, Western blotting
  • PCR, RT-PCR
  • Plasmid preparation
  • Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA
  • Recombinant virus production and purification
Cellular Biology:
  • Cell culture, cell isolation
  • Functional studies
  • Transfection
Histology:
  • Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining
  • Immunohistochemistry
Immunology:
  • Flow cytometry
  • ELISA, Elispot assay
  • Cytokine assay
  • Antibody production and purification
Animal:
  • Husbandry
  • Breeding and screening transgenic mice
  • Dissections
  • Blood collection
  • Surgical procedures
  • Database management of colony
Administration
  • Oversees and manages lab databases which may include ensuring that experiments are observed and that data is collected and entered correctly.
  • Reviews and analyzes data.
  • Creates computer models, graphs, reports and summaries for use in publications, professional journals, and grant applications.
  • Co-authors scientific papers for presentation and publication.
  • Researches and obtains funding.
  • Creates and maintains lab manuals regarding operating, safety, and etc. procedures.
Finance
  • Creates lab financial plan and budget/audit expenses.
  • Obtains sales quotes for lab equipment and supplies.
  • Reviews and adjusts expenses to decrease costs.
  • Oversees repair and maintenance of all lab equipment.
  • Ensures that lab supplies are ready and available when necessary.
Supervision
  • Trains, directs, assigns duties to and may supervise lab EEs, students, residents and/or fellows.
Miscellaneous
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 5 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience required; OR
Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 3 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience.
Benefits
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .

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