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Research Lab Volunteer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Product Transfer Associate I

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$45K - $66K/yr

Experience working independently in manufacturing or research lab highly preferred KNOWLEDGE ... Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity ...

Senior Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD ยท On-site

$67K - $101K/yr

Participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining ... Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity ...

Senior Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD ยท On-site

$67K - $101K/yr

Participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining ... Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity ...

Senior Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD ยท On-site

$67K - $101K/yr

Participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining ... Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity ...

Senior Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD ยท On-site

$67K - $101K/yr

Participates in general lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining ... Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Lab Volunteer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

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$43

How much do research lab volunteer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab volunteer in Reston, VA is $22.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research lab volunteer?

Research lab volunteers are individuals who assist in scientific or academic research projects, often without monetary compensation. They may help with tasks such as data collection, lab maintenance, experiment setup, or administrative work. Volunteers gain hands-on experience, learn about scientific methods, and contribute to the advancement of research. These positions are commonly held by students or individuals interested in pursuing a career in science or research. Volunteering in a lab can also be a valuable way to build professional networks and strengthen a resume.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research lab volunteer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Lab Volunteer, you typically need a background in science coursework, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn laboratory protocols. Familiarity with basic lab equipment, safety procedures, and possibly data entry systems like Excel or lab management software is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and a proactive attitude help you effectively support researchers and adapt to dynamic lab environments. These skills ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and contribute positively to the research team's objectives.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect as a research lab volunteer?

As a Research Lab Volunteer, your typical tasks may include assisting with data collection, preparing laboratory materials, maintaining equipment, and supporting ongoing experiments under supervision. You might also help with administrative duties such as organizing samples, inputting data, or conducting literature reviews. The role offers hands-on experience in a collaborative setting, often working alongside researchers, technicians, and other students. This exposure can help you develop practical laboratory skills and gain a clearer understanding of the scientific research process.

What is the difference between Research Lab Volunteer vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch Lab VolunteerResearch Assistant
CredentialsUsually no formal degree required; some background in science preferredTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or research facility, often unpaid or volunteer basisLaboratory, research projects, often paid or with academic credit
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutes, non-profit organizationsUniversities, research institutions, government agencies

Research Lab Volunteers assist with basic tasks and support research projects without formal employment or advanced credentials. Research Assistants usually have relevant educational background and perform more specialized research duties. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Research Assistants typically have more responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Research Lab Volunteer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Lab Volunteer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Research Lab Volunteer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Research Lab Volunteer job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Lab Volunteer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,664 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Product Transfer Associate I

MSD

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

$45K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
This position is responsible for manufacturing assay kit components during development phases, meeting production schedules and troubleshooting. The role is cross-disciplinary and requires coordination across multiple departments (Operations, Quality, Research & Development, etc).
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Manufacture custom and/or prototype requests for internal and external customers.
  • Operate multiple production lines (Plate, Reagent and/or BioChemical manufacturing).
  • Assist with operating and troubleshooting automated equipment used to perform and produce biological assays/reagents.
  • Contribute to process improvement, assay and process development for new and existing products.

  • Provide complete documentation that supports process and production procedures that includes, but is not limited to data entry, form creation, log entries, and inventory batch records.
  • Assist with drafting of standard operating procedures and batch records for new products, if necessary.
  • File deviations, variances and non-conformance reports as needed.
  • Assist with development of presentations/reports regarding product development issues for internal use.

  • Maintain laboratory cleanliness, supplies and equipment.

    • Perform daily maintenance and documentation for all production equipment.Maintain physical inventory by processing/aliquotting/vialing/labeling materials.
    • Prepare, maintain and report raw material, reagent and/or coated plate inventories.
    • Participate in year-end physical inventory.

  • As needed, provide training to Operations colleagues on new processes.
  • May occasionally handle BSL2 reagents.
  • Specific duties may vary depending upon departmental requirements.
  • Assist production groups during periods of high demand

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering or related field, or associate's degree with equivalent experience.
  • One year of relevant experience desired.
  • Experience working independently in manufacturing or research lab highly preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Demonstrate an aptitude for learning new processes, collaborating with multiple departments , adhering to standard laboratory techniques and safety precautions as presented
  • Knowledge of scientific fundamentals and possess a strong analytical background
  • Knowledge of automated equipment function and use
    • Mechanical aptitude including equipment troubleshooting
  • Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of MRP or ERP systems preferred
  • Knowledge of JDE preferred
  • Knowledge of cGMP and/or ISO 9001 standard is highly preferred
  • Proficiency using MS Office
  • Ability to multi-task and work productively in a demanding manufacturing environment with changing priorities

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and frequent lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Up to 80% of the day may be spent at a lab bench and/or in the cleanroom

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Standard industrial laboratory, logistics and/or cleanroom environment
COMPENSATION SUMMARY:
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $45,500 to $66,000. This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY:
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO/AA STATEMENT:
MSD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please click on the following link: https://www.mesoscale.com/en/our_company/careers/equal_employment_opportunity_statement.
Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.