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Research Lab Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Research Lab Assistant information

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$10

$21

$31

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in Portland, OR is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.47 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 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.

How much does a research lab assistant get paid?

Research lab assistants typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, education level, and the location of the laboratory. Some positions may offer additional benefits or stipends for working in specialized environments or during certain hours.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Research Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,661 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

The Division of Infectious Diseases mission is to provide expert care for patients with complicated infections, conduct innovative research, and provide exceptional education.

The individual filling this position will investigate the mechanisms by which the fungal pathogen Coccidioides causes infections, with the ultimate goal to develop novel treatments targeting this fungus. The individual will be working as part of a multidisciplinary group studying Coccidioides pathogenesis, including a family of secreted proteases produced by the fungus and the fungus' interaction with the host during infection. The individual filling this position will become familiar with level 3 biocontainment protocols and use methods to perform fungal culture, create fungal mutants through gene deletion with CRISPR/Cas9, light and fluorescence microscopy, gene expression analysis through RNA-seq, genomic DNA isolation and whole genome sequencing, cell culture, macrophage infections, immunoprecipitations, protein gels, Western blotting, biochemical assays for protease activity; and other duties as assigned. The individual will be participating in projects designed to understand how the infectious fungus Coccidioides, the causative fungal pathogen of "Valley Fever" or coccidiomycosis, causes disease. This position represents an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to extensive molecular skills as well as genetics and microscopy approaches in a dynamic research environment. The individual will also be maintaining and performing general organization of the BSL-2 laboratory and participate in written and oral presentations of their research findings.

Function/Duties of Position
  • Experimental studies on the pathogenesis of Coccidioides
  • Laboratory management
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelors in relevant field AND
  • 1 years of relevant experience OREquivalent combination of training and experience
  • 2 years of relevant research experience in a BSL-2 laboratory (molecular biology/cell culture/pathogenesis)
  • detailed lab record keeping proficient with pipetting, PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis

  • ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-moving environment

  • attention to details and reliably following safety protocols 

Preferred Qualifications
  • 3 years of relevant research experience in a BSL-2 laboratory (molecular biology/cell culture/pathogenesis)
  • in addition to required skills, ability to perform PAGE analysis, Western blotting, cell culture, mouse husbandry
Additional Details
  • Work schedule: generally standard hours = 40 hours/week, 8-5, Monday-Friday.  Schedule may also occasionally include nonstandard hours (nights/weekends) as required by the experimental studies, and occasional travel for conferences to present findings. Work is primarily conducted in a scientific laboratory, with part of the work conducted in a Biosafety Level 3 containment laboratory.
  • Ability to conduct a full workday of laboratory science routinely.  Some weekends and evenings may be required.  Ability to carry and lift up to 40 lbs.  Continuous use of computer keyboards and various pieces of lab equipment.  Sitting or standing for more than six hours per day, working in a BSL3 laboratory with a respirator for up to 5 hours at a time.
Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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About Oregon Health & Science University

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Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887