ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Lab Assistant

Lemont, IL

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 ...

The University of Chicago

Research Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24.04 - $33.65/hr

... * Assist with general lab duties including ordering of supplies and maintenance of laboratory equipment. * Attend lab meetings and read current journal articles pertaining to relevant projects.

Balance Health

Laboratory Assistant

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$20/hr

We are seeking a Part Time Laboratory Assistant to support our Molecular (PCR) laboratory. The ... Prior lab experience preferred (clinical, research, or academic settings). * Proficient in ...

Balance Health

Laboratory Assistant

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$20/hr

We are seeking a Part Time Laboratory Assistant to support our Molecular (PCR) laboratory. The ... Prior lab experience preferred (clinical, research, or academic settings). * Proficient in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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

Research Lab Assistant information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Naperville, IL is $20.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $23.03 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 Naperville, IL? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Naperville, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Naperville, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Naperville, IL are:
What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Naperville, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,050 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Summer Research Assistant - Energy & Environment Lab (2026)

UChicago Energy & Environment Lab

Chicago, IL

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Summer Research Assistant, Energy & Environment Lab 

Location:Chicago, IL 

Who We Are 

The University of Chicago Energy & Environment Lab (E&E Lab) partners with agencies at the local, state and federal level to identify, rigorously evaluate, and help scale programs and policies that reduce pollution and improve environmental outcomes, while ensuring access to reliable and affordable energy. The E&E Lab uses natural experiments, randomized controlled trials, behavioral economics, and machine learning to help policymakers identify and generate evidence around innovative approaches to their most pressing environmental and energy-related challenges. 

The E&E Lab is part of the University of Chicago's new Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth. The Lab's mission is to partner with government agencies to identify and rigorously evaluate policies with the greatest potential to improve human lives at scale; the Lab's evidence-based approach gives policymakers and practitioners the knowledge they need to effectively achieve the greatest social good per dollar spent. 

Job Summary 

The E&E Lab is seeking Summer Research Assistants (RAs) with strong research, methodological, and programming skills to support large-scale environmental policy research projects. The RAs will work on a portfolio of economics projects, designed to evaluate the impact of promising energy and environmental interventions. Typical research projects involve the analysis of environmental and energy data, utilizing quasi-experimental and experimental methods to provide government partners with guidance on key policy questions. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Coding, review, and cleaning of data. 
  • Data analytics, statistical analysis, and building econometric and/or machine learning models. 
  • Project development and coordination. 
  • Literature reviews. 
  • Presentation of results of analysis (e.g., graphs and tables). 
  • Assisting in writing, formatting, and editing reports and works for publication and for dissemination to partners. 

Job Requirements 

Competencies: 

  • Interest in and aptitude for developing advanced programming and analytic skills. 
  • Experience with at least one statistical analysis language required; R, or Python strongly preferred. 
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to synthesize multiple sources. 
  • Strong initiative and a resourceful approach to problem-solving and learning. 
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. 
  • High attention to detail and organizational skills. 
  • Knowledge of environment and/or energy policy issues preferred. 

Education: 

  • Significant progress towards an undergraduate or graduate degree in economics, computer science or related discipline. 
  • Coursework in economics, applied math, computer science, statistics. 
  • Research experience in an academic setting preferred. 

Documents Required: 

  • Resume 
  • Cover Letter 
  • Academic transcript(s) 

The internship duration is ten weeks, with a flexible start date. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with decisions made on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

The E&E Lab main office is in Chicago; some research staff are based in the offices of our federal and state government partners. 

To apply, please complete the form and upload your resume, cover letter, and transcript below. Questions and inquiries about the summer position should be directed to eelabhiring@uchicago.edu. 

All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. 

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. 

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. 

Apply