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

These two research groups are separate entities, but use overlapping methods and techniques in ... The Laboratory Technician will also assist with day-to-day lab operations, including reagent and ...

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Research Lab Assistant information

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How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Naperville, IL as of August 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.

Research Manager - Energy & Environment Lab (Full-Time, Benefits Eligible)

UChicago Energy & Environment Lab

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Research Manager - Energy & Environment Lab (Full-Time, Benefits Eligible)
Location: Chicago, IL
Expected Start Date: Flexible
About the Unit:
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 University of Chicago Energy & Environment Lab is seeking a Research Manager (RM) with strong research, methodological, and management skills to support large-scale environmental policy research projects. The RM will help manage a growing portfolio of applied research projects related to environmental policy and contribute to project development, data analysis, research design and implementation. The RM will work closely with partners at government agencies, a dedicated team of research analysts and data scientists, to implement research projects led by Faculty Director Michael Greenstone and other faculty at University of Chicago and other institutions.
Responsibilities
  • Manage research partnerships with government agencies and serve as project manager for research and technical assistance projects, leading communications and project deliverables.
  • Meaningfully contribute to the research design, analysis and implementation of policy relevant research projects.
  • Assist with setting the strategic direction of the E&E Lab by helping form new partnerships and building capacity.
  • Closely collaborate with Lab leadership and faculty serving as principal investigators on projects to plan and execute research projects.
  • Manage data collection, cleaning and econometric data analysis for a variety of projects.
  • Build predictive analytics/machine learning models, in collaboration with other research staff.
  • Prepare memos, presentations, and papers targeting both policymakers and academic audiences.
  • Ensure compliance with institutional, state and federal regulatory policies and procedures as well as internal data privacy and security policies.
  • Conduct thorough and critical reviews of relevant literature.
  • Assist with writing grant proposals and managing grant reports.
  • Prepare human subjects protocols and amendments for IRB.
  • Use subject matter and best practices knowledge to perform lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Work independently on developing study designs.
  • Solve complex problems relating to the administration of projects, including planning new procedures, adapting existing procedures to the needs of the project, and making significant contributions to methodology.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Qualifications
Education:
  • At a minimum, a Bachelor's degree in economics, data science or related field.
  • Master's degree in economics, computer science, statistics or other relevant field, is preferred.
  • Coursework in econometrics, mathematical statistics, and data science.

Experience:
  • A minimum of four years of relevant research experience.
  • Programming in Stata or R.
  • Experience working in rigorous impact evaluation, field experiments / randomized controlled trials.
  • Designing econometric models, and/or predictive analytics/machine learning models.
  • Work with large and complex datasets.

Preferred Competencies
  • Strong background in applied statistics & econometrics.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to present research concepts in a simple and straightforward way for non-technical audiences.
  • Strong time management skills with a proven ability to multitask and prioritize activities to successfully complete projects on tight deadlines with little supervision.
  • Strong project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Work both independently, in a self-directed manner, and as a team member.
  • Knowledge and understanding of energy and environmental policy topics strongly.
  • Topical expertise in energy and environmental economics, including familiarity with the field literature.

Required Documents
  • Resume/CV (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)
  • Unofficial transcript (required)

The University of Chicago provides equal employment opportunities to all employees, applicants, and job seekers. No person shall be discriminated against in employment or harassed because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, marital status, parental status, ancestry, source of income, or other classes protected by law. This policy includes the commitment to maintaining a work environment free from unlawful harassment.