ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

University of Chicago Library

Lab Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Assists in drafting presentations on research findings. The Lab Assistant will provide routine operational and organizational support for a biomedical imaging and radiation oncology laboratory. The ...

New

The University of Chicago

Lab Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Assists in drafting presentations on research findings. The Lab Assistant will provide routine operational and organizational support for a biomedical imaging and radiation oncology laboratory. The ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch Lab JobsResearch Lab Assistant JobsResearch Lab Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Research Lab Assistant information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Park Ridge, IL is $19.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $22.69 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 the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:

Research Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Park Ridge, 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 $41,440 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Research Lab Manager 1

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$56K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Northwestern University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: MED-Urology
Salary/Grade: EXS/6
Target hiring range for this position will be between be range is as be $56,780-$75,000 per year . 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:
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:
Technical
  • Manages technical operations of a lab involved in scientific research activities.
  • In consultation with Principle Investigator (PI) organizes & plans experiments ensuring that project objective are attained.
  • Oversees & guides lab staff in review of results & recommendation of changes to protocols to improve validity & accuracy.
  • Conducts more complex experiments & analysis.
Administration
  • Oversees & manages collection, maintenance, analysis & evaluation of data that will be used in grant submissions, presentations & publications.
  • Ensures that information is entered correctly into databases.
  • Assists PI in reviewing, analyzing, interpreting, summarizing, formatting, editing, & preparing tables, charts, graphs, progress & final reports, etc.
  • Coordinates between sponsoring agencies, collaboration organizations &/or other research &/or educational institutions.
  • Ensures research regulations are adhered to, IRB & ACUC approvals in place, material transfer agreements properly executed, & that radiation & lab safety requirements are up to date & implemented.
Finance
  • Manages lab budget & inventory including purchasing of supplies & services ensuring that they are necessary, reasonable & project related.
  • Orders & maintains inventory of lab supplies, chemicals, equipment & instrumentation & may distribute intra-departmental charges.
  • Negotiates with vendors, obtain quotes & arrange for demos of large equipment.
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 6 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 4 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience.
  • Supervisory or project management experience required.
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 .

What Northwestern University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply