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Research Lab Manager Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

University of Michigan

Lab Manager

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$26K - $33K/yr

The Ancient Protein and Isotope Research Laboratory Specialist primarily oversees the operation and ... Oversees the scheduling for open lab hours. Manages scheduling of students or colleagues to ensure ...

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Research Lab Manager information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$34.2K

$66.3K

$91.6K

How much do research lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lab manager in Detroit, MI is $66,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,400.00 and $79,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do research lab managers make in the US?

Research lab managers in the US typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and the size of the institution. Those with advanced degrees or specialized skills in laboratory management or scientific research tend to earn higher salaries.

Is a research lab manager a stressful job?

A research lab manager often faces stress related to managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and ensuring safety and compliance. The role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to handle unexpected issues, which can contribute to a high-stress environment at times.

What are the responsibilities of a research lab manager?

A Research Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of a scientific laboratory, ensuring that research activities run smoothly and efficiently. Their responsibilities typically include managing laboratory staff, maintaining equipment and supplies, enforcing safety protocols, and assisting with budgeting and administrative tasks. They also support researchers by coordinating experiments, managing data, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential in this role.

What is a research lab manager?

A research lab manager oversees the daily operations of a laboratory, including managing staff, maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols, and coordinating research activities. They often require strong organizational skills, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and experience with project management tools.

What is the difference between Research Lab Manager vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Lab ManagerResearch Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; often requires management experienceMaster's or Ph.D. in specific research area
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, administrative offices, overseeing operationsLaboratories, conducting experiments, data analysis
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, universities, biotech companiesResearch institutions, universities, industry R&D
Primary FocusManaging lab operations, budgets, staffDesigning experiments, conducting research, publishing findings

The main difference is that a Research Lab Manager focuses on overseeing lab operations, staff, and budgets, while a Research Scientist concentrates on conducting experiments and advancing scientific knowledge. Both roles are essential in research settings but serve different functions within the research process.

What are some common challenges a research lab manager faces and how can they be addressed?

Research Lab Managers often encounter challenges related to balancing administrative duties with supporting scientific research, maintaining compliance with safety regulations, and ensuring efficient use of resources. Navigating these requires strong organizational skills, clear communication with both researchers and administrative staff, and staying up to date with regulatory changes. Proactively scheduling regular team meetings, investing in ongoing training, and implementing standard operating procedures can help address these challenges and create a productive, compliant lab environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research lab manager?

To thrive as a Research Lab Manager, you need strong scientific expertise, leadership skills, and a relevant degree in the field (often a Master's or PhD). Experience with laboratory management systems, safety protocols, grant writing, and equipment maintenance is crucial, along with certifications such as CLIA or GLP compliance when applicable. Excellent organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help foster teamwork and ensure smooth lab operations. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining high research standards, ensuring safety, and achieving project goals efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Detroit, MI? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab Manager jobs in Detroit, MI? For Research Lab Manager jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab Manager jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab Manager jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Research Lab Manager jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Research Lab Manager job openings:
Research Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab Manager job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,313 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Research Assistant - Biological Sciences

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$38K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 615 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant - Biological Sciences
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant - Biological Sciences at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
We are looking to hire a laboratory technician/lab manager, who will be responsible for: 1) husbandry and nematode strains management; 2) culture media preparation and nematode lines maintenance; 3) purchases, chemical inventory organization, documentation, and general organization of the lab; 4) generating nematode mutant strains and performing crosses; 5) perform behavioral assays using nematodes, and record and collect data; 6) coordinate maintenance of existing equipment, including software and lab computers; 7) support research projects in the lab, depending on current needs and based on PI's and lab priorities.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Neuroscience or other related field
Prior experience in a C. elegans lab
Microscopy experience (bright field)
Good knowledge of basic level molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology
Proficiency in basic wet lab techniques
Ability to work independently and take initiatives
Excellent ability to work as part of a team
Proficiency in using Office 365 software (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
The successful candidate must be reliable, diligent, organized, motivated, responsive, and able to maintain excellent communication with the group leader and all team members
Preferred qualifications:
Prior experience in a biology/neurobiology/molecular biology research lab. Familiarity with statistical methods and packages (i.e., GraphPad Prism) or willingness to learn. Flexibility of working hours/working week. Familiarity with or willingness to learn new imaging software packages and novel microscopy techniques. Experience in a chemistry lab. Ability to organize group activities and coordinate with collaborating labs and vendors. It is strongly preferred that the person resides in the Detroit area and has quick access to WSU campus and the lab.
School/College/Division:
H12 - College of Liberal Arts & Science
Primary department:
H1204 - Biological Sciences
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Salary hire maximum: $38,000
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 1
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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