1

Research Lab Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Research Lab Technologists to support its internationally engaged research programs in molecular ... Collect, organize, and assist with the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.

Lab assistant Location: Exton, PA Full Time Frontage Laboratories Inc. is an award winning, full-service, CRO/Contract Research Organization operating over 25 state-of-the-art laboratories across the ...

This Lab Assistant will prepare materials and paperwork; maintain inventory, equipment, and ... Rosa Road in Research Park on the west side of Madison. Starting student rate is $16/hour. Apply ...

The Laboratory Assistant II will be responsible for heading special projects, to include research ... The Laboratory Assistant II (LA II) is an experienced Lab Assistant, with advanced knowledge of ...

New

Position Summary As a Lab Assistant, responsibilities include managing stock levels, adjusting ... Collaborate with R&D team members to contribute to the team's knowledge-sharing culture * Utilize ...

Position Summary As a Lab Assistant, responsibilities include managing stock levels, adjusting ... Collaborate with R&D team members to contribute to the team's knowledge-sharing culture * Utilize ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Research Lab Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do research lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 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.
More about Research Lab Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Lab Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Research Lab Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs are:
What states have the most Research Lab Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Lab Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Research Lab Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Research Lab Technician II

$25.71 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Lab Technician II

TheUniversity of Southern CaliforniaCenter for Personalized Brain Health (CPBH) and the Yassine Laboratory are seeking a Research Lab Technician to support NIH-funded research studies focused on Alzheimer's disease, neuroinflammation, lipid metabolism, APOE4-associated risk, biomarkers, and translational therapeutic development. Working under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory staff, the Research Lab Technician will assist with day-to-day laboratory operations, research coordination, sample processing, data organization, and experimental support activities across multiple active projects.

This position will support both basic science and translational research initiatives by assisting with laboratory workflows, maintaining organized research records, managing biological samples and laboratory inventories, and supporting research documentation and data entry activities. The technician will help ensure accurate and timely execution of research procedures, maintain compliance with laboratory protocols and institutional policies, and contribute to the overall operational efficiency of the lab.

The Research Lab Technician II will work closely with investigators, postdoctoral fellows, students, and multidisciplinary collaborators to support studies involving biomarkers, neurodegeneration, neurovascular inflammation, imaging-related research coordination, and therapeutic discovery efforts. Additional responsibilities may include preparing study materials, coordinating supplies and equipment maintenance, supporting literature reviews and figure preparation, and assisting with general research operations and project coordination activities.

This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced academic research environment. The position involves routine laboratory support, scientific documentation, computer-based data entry, and coordination across research teams.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, neuroscience, chemistry, psychology, public health, or a related scientific discipline

  • Ability to follow laboratory protocols, research procedures, and standard operating practices

  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Experience maintaining accurate records, spreadsheets, or research documentation

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment

  • Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and work independently under supervision


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience working in a laboratory, academic research, or clinical research environment

  • Experience handling biological samples, maintaining laboratory inventories, or supporting experimental workflows

  • Familiarity with research databases, REDCap, or basic data management practices

  • Interest in Alzheimer's disease, neuroscience, neuroinflammation, biomarkers, aging, or translational medicine

  • Experience supporting federally funded or NIH-supported research projects

  • Exposure to basic laboratory techniques, scientific literature review, or research reporting activities.

The successful candidate will be motivated, pro-active, resourceful, and detail oriented. The position requires excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to be decisive and adaptable. The candidate must follow established USC and departmental policies, procedures, objectives, performance improvement, attendance, safety, environmental, and infection control guidelines, including adherence to the Workplace Code of Conduct and Compliance Plan.


This position is on-site and employee must report to work at the USC Health Science Campus in Los Angeles, CA when scheduled. Work hours may be subject to change depending on business needs.

The hourly budgeted range for this position is $25.71 - $30. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Associate's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 2 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$149467.htmld

What University Of Southern California employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Southern California logo

About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880