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Research Lab Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician Job Summary: The Clinical Trials Institute (CTI) has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Clinical Research Lab Technician to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is detail ...

The research conducted by Tiwari lab utilizes medical imaging and clinical data to build and optimize AI and machine learning models that identify computerized image-based phenotypes, and their ...

The Wistar Institute has an opening for a Research Assistant to join the laboratory of Dr. Filippo Veglia. The Veglia lab focuses on the study of molecular and metabolic perturbations that drive the ...

The Wistar Institute has an opening for a highly motivated Research Assistant to join the laboratory of Dr. Maureen Murphy. The Murphy lab studies the genetics of the p53 suppressor protein, focusing ...

Experience with R&D lab testing, including raw material, in-process, and finished product testing. * Background in chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline. * Strong ...

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Research Lab information

See Wisconsin salary details

$8

$22

$42

How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab in Wisconsin is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What lab job pays the most?

In research labs, senior roles such as Principal Investigator or Laboratory Director typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities, and they often involve securing funding and managing research projects.

What is a research lab?

A research lab is a specialized facility where scientists, researchers, or students conduct experiments and investigations to advance knowledge in a particular field. Research labs can be found in universities, hospitals, private companies, or government institutions and are equipped with tools and equipment tailored to their focus area. These labs support a variety of activities, such as basic or applied research, testing, and product development, often following strict safety and ethical guidelines.

Is it hard to get into a research lab?

Getting into a research lab can be competitive and often requires relevant academic background, research experience, and strong skills in the field. Applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency with specific tools or methodologies and sometimes secure recommendations or internships to improve their chances.

What is the difference between Research Lab vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch LabResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (Master's or PhD)Bachelor's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, research facilitiesAssist in experiments, data collection in labs or field
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, research projects, government agencies

Research Lab refers to a facility or organization conducting scientific research, often led by senior researchers. A Research Assistant is a role within a research lab, supporting experiments and data analysis. While both are involved in research activities, Research Lab is the environment or organization, whereas Research Assistant is a specific job position within that environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Research Lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Research Lab position, you need strong analytical skills, scientific knowledge in your field, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success. These abilities ensure accurate experimentation, meaningful results, and a safe, collaborative research environment.

How do I become a lab researcher?

To become a lab researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or physics is required, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. Additionally, gaining experience through internships, developing skills in laboratory techniques, and familiarity with scientific tools and data analysis are important steps in pursuing a career as a lab researcher.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a research lab environment?

Working in a research lab often involves navigating tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and troubleshooting experimental setbacks. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently work alongside other researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes students, which requires strong communication skills. Additionally, maintaining meticulous records and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of research findings. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding and can help foster valuable problem-solving and teamwork skills for your future career.

How much do lab researchers get paid?

Lab researchers' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers or those with advanced degrees can earn over $80,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Research Lab jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Research Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,244 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Clinical Research Lab Technician

Wisconsin

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$20.19/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Job Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Lab TechnicianJob Summary:

The Clinical Trials Institute (CTI) has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Clinical Research Lab Technician to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, adaptable, and motivated to support high-quality clinical research operations in a collaborative and fast-paced environment. This role will work closely with Clinical Research Coordinators, investigators, research participants, and laboratory personnel to support research specimen collection, processing, handling, storage, packaging, transport, and shipment in accordance with study protocols, laboratory manuals, institutional policies, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and clinical research industry standards.

Responsibilities include assisting with research specimen processing and laboratory operations across multiple clinical research studies and research teams across UWSMPH. The individual will occasionally perform phlebotomy procedures for research participants and will ensure accurate specimen handling and documentation throughout the specimen lifecycle. The position will also support the maintenance, calibration, and oversight of laboratory and research processing equipment including refrigerators, freezers, centrifuges, incubators, pipettors, and additional equipment as needed. This role will assist with temperature monitoring systems and associated troubleshooting, coordinate with vendors regarding equipment maintenance and service needs, and retrieve temperature logs, maintenance records, and certifications required for research studies and regulatory purposes.

In addition, this individual will contribute to broader research operations by assisting with development of laboratory processing guides, templates, standardized workflows, data entry activities, and other research-related tasks as

assigned. The Clinical Research Lab Technician will also support ongoing efforts to establish and maintain standardized best practices across CTI research laboratory spaces and research processing operations.

This is a fully onsite position with standard business hours expected during the workweek. However, flexibility is essential, as occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekends may be required to support study activities and research participant schedules. This role will also require travel between research sites within the greater Madison area. If you are passionate about supporting innovative clinical research and contributing to operational excellence in a collaborative environment, we encourage you to apply today!

  • This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.

  • This position has been identified as a position of trust with access to vulnerable populations.The selected candidate will be required to pass an initial caregiver check to be eligible for employment under the Wisconsin Caregiver Law and every four years.

  • Must provide a valid driver's license. Employees may use their own transportation or receive approval for University Car Fleet usage. Employment is conditional pending the results of a Pre-hire Driver Authorization Check. See https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/#become-authorized-driver (click on "Become an authorized driver;" then click on "Required criteria").

  • Candidates who demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities will be given first consideration: phlebotomy, processing human research specimens in a lab setting.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Coordinates and participates in a variety of routine technical duties by providing assistance to research and/or laboratory staff in testing and experiments
  • Performs quality control, acknowledges documents, performs document reviews and/or writes and revises documents as assigned
  • Completes and acknowledges trainings
  • Supports clinical trial data entry per study-specific requirements and guidelines.
  • Uses, maintains, calibrates, and sets up lab equipment and apparatuses according to established policies and procedures and documents activities
  • Performs phlebotomy as needed for research participants.
  • Sets up, prepares, and cleans laboratory glassware, instruments, equipment, and laboratory work spaces
Department:

School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Clinical Trials Institute

Compensation:

The starting hourly wage for the position is $20.19 hourly but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

SMPH University Staff Benefits Flyer 2026

Required Qualifications:
  • Candidate must have a minimum of one (1) year of phlebotomy experience within the last 12 months

  • Demonstrated prior experience processing human research specimens in a lab setting

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience supporting clinical trials, clinical research, or translational research activities;

  • Experience performing equipment maintenance, calibration oversight, and temperature monitoring for laboratory or clinical research equipment.

Education:

High School Diploma preferred

How to Apply:

For the best experience completing your application, we recommend using Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.

To apply for this position, select either "I am a current employee" or "I am not a current employee" under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials.

Important: The application has only one attachment field. Upload the following documents in that field, either as a single combined file or as multiple files in the same upload area.
Cover letter
Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience aligns with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected

University sponsorship is not available for this position, including transfers of sponsorship and TN visas.The selected applicant will be responsible for ensuring their continuous eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.This position is an ongoing position that will require continuous work eligibility.

The department will not be able to support a request for a J-1 waiver. If you choose to pursue a waiver and apply for our position, neither the UW nor UWMF will reimburse you for your legal or waiver fees.

Contact Information:

Rochelle Rannow, rochelle.rannow@wisc.edu

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.