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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Edison, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Lab Assistant

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$20.28/hr

The research assistant will be responsible for the organization and archiving collected both animal ... Assists in packing, unpacking, storing, and maintaining lab supplies and materials. * Ensures that ...

Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$52K - $55K/yr

Handling small animals and perfusions. (20%) Assist in maintenance of lab safety protocols ... Minimum two (2) years of experience in a research environment or experience handling rodents in a ...

... vast research enterprise with over $1 billion in active awards from the National Institutes of ... We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Lab Assistant. In this role, the successful ...

... vast research enterprise with over $1 billion in active awards from the National Institutes of ... We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Lab Assistant I. In this role, the successful ...

Research Specialist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$41K - $60K/yr

Research in the lab employs state-of-the-art neuroscience approaches, including quantitative ... Responsibilities Assist postdoctoral fellows and graduate students on behavioral and calcium ...

Research Specialist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$41K - $60K/yr

Research in the lab employs state-of-the-art neuroscience approaches, including quantitative ... Responsibilities Assist postdoctoral fellows and graduate students on behavioral and calcium ...

... vast research enterprise with over $1 billion in active awards from the National Institutes of ... We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Lab Assistant I. In this role, the successful ...

... vast research enterprise with over $1 billion in active awards from the National Institutes of ... The Lab Assistants are responsible for filing and distributing the on-site and off-site materials ...

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Research Lab Assistant information

See Edison, NJ salary details

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How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Edison, NJ is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.89 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 popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Edison, NJ? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Edison, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Edison, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Edison, NJ are:
What cities near Edison, NJ are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Edison, NJ with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Edison, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,598 per year, or $21 per hour.
Lab Assistant

$20.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Rutgers University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Lab Assistant
Job Category
Staff & Executive - Research Support (Laboratory/Non-Laboratory)
Department
RWJ - Neurosurgery
Overview
New Jersey's academic health center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care, and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University-New Brunswick and collaborating university wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network, and six centers and institutes that focus on cancer treatment and research, neuroscience, clinical and translational research, advanced biotechnology and medicine, environmental and occupational health, and health care policy and aging research.
Our faculty are teachers, clinicians, and scientists with unparalleled experience who advance medical innovation and provide patient care informed by the latest research findings. We offer an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research, and the full spectrum of allied health careers.
Our clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state including New Brunswick, Piscataway, Newark, Scotch Plains, Somerset, Blackwood, and other locations. Clinical partners include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, University Hospital in Newark, and other affiliates.
Through this community of healers, scientists, and scholars, Rutgers is equipped as never before to transform lives.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Lab Assistant for the department of Neurosurgery at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, Senior Research Associate and Postdoctoral Researchers, the Lab Assistant will be responsible for supporting ongoing laboratory activities and managing supply inventories, including managing and maintaining experimental animal colony. The laboratory assistant will contribute to meeting regulatory compliance (IRB and possible IACUC), maintaining research progress report, design history file, and compiling regulatory protocols; The research assistant will be responsible for the organization and archiving collected both animal and human subject data.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
  • Assists in packing, unpacking, storing, and maintaining lab supplies and materials.
  • Ensures that glassware and equipment are kept clean and properly stored.
  • Prepares stock solutions and buffers.
  • Assisted with the maintenance of laboratory facilities, equipment, and instruments.
  • Assists in maintaining records and files.
  • Aid in minor animal surgeries, molecular, cellular, and electrophysiological experiments.
  • Perform animal colony maintenance related duties as assigned.

FLSA
Nonexempt
Grade
132
Salary Details
Minimum Salary
20.280
Mid Range Salary
20.780
Maximum Salary
21.400
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
  • Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
  • Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
  • Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
  • Life insurance coverage
  • Employee discount programs

Position Status
Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours
35.00
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
This position requires a fully on-site work arrangement.
Union Description
Teamsters 97
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment
Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility
PERS
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • One year of experience working in a basic science lab environment.

Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Background in neuroscience and/or cell biology and be able to work with rodents for behavioral experiments and conduct molecular, cellular and electrophysiological experiments with training and supervision.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
  • Effective communication skills for presenting data and interacting with team members.
  • Commitment to maintaining high standards of research integrity and compliance with institutional guidelines.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and computer skills.
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized.
  • Attentive to record keeping, filing, data management, integrity, and accuracy.
  • Must be able to work independently and/or collaboratively.
  • Outstanding presentation skills.
  • Experience in graphing, statistical analysis, and data management skills.
  • Proficient in Word, PowerPoint, and an advanced level of Excel/spreadsheet data organization.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biological sciences, molecular biology, computer science, engineering or a related science field.

Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • Physical Demands: The position requires the ability to perform laboratory work, including standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods. The candidate must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Work Environment: Work is primarily performed in a laboratory environment that may involve exposure to biological samples, chemicals, and standard laboratory equipment. The candidate must adhere to all institutional safety guidelines and federal regulations. The noise level is generally moderate. Some work may require flexible scheduling to meet experimental timelines.

Special Conditions
Posting Details
Posting Number
25ST2030
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus
Piscataway (RBHS)
City
Piscataway
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement

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