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Research Lab Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

The Wistar Institute has an opening for a Research Assistant to join the laboratory of Dr. Torben Schiffner. The Schiffner lab focuses on developing advanced vaccines that induce broadly neutralizing ...

The Xu lab is interested in building nanobody discovery platforms and developing nanobody countermeasures against viral infections. Ongoing research focuses on developing broad and potent ...

Lab Technician

Wauwatosa, WI ยท On-site

$24/hr

... R&D teams Strong mechanical skills; willingness to maintain lab equipment and mixing equipment Accuracy and attention to detail POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Work with Sealing & Bonding team members on ...

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Research Lab information

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How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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.

Research Assistant (Mouse Colony & Laboratory Operations) - Liang Lab

wistar

Institute, WI โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

The Liang Laboratory at The Wistar Institute is seeking a highly responsible and motivated Research Assistant with a primary focus onย mouse colony management. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with mice, is highly organized, and takes pride in maintaining a well-run and compliant research environment. Our laboratory studies fundamental cellular processesโ€”including autophagy, apoptosis, DNA damage/repair, and intracellular traffickingโ€”in cancer biology and viral infection.

This position centers on mouse colony oversight and lab operations support, rather than independent research projects. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining a healthy, well-organized mouse colony and supporting efficient lab function. There is potential for expanded responsibilities in lab operations over time.

Mouse Colony Management (Primary Focus):

  • Maintain and expand mouse colonies (breeding, genotyping, and colony tracking).ย 
  • Plan breeding strategies and genetic crosses.
  • Monitor colony health, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with institutional guidelines.
  • Coordinate closely with animal facility staff and veterinary personnel.

Regulatory & Compliance:

  • Assist with IACUC/IBC (and related) protocols and ensure compliance with animal use regulations.
  • Serve as a liaison with the animal facility and compliance offices.ย 

Work Ethic & Expectations:

  • Strong accountability for animal welfare and colony integrity.
  • Willingness to support time-sensitive tasks, including occasional weekend/holiday checks.
  • Proactive planning to ensure continuity of colony management.

Additional Lab support (as needed):

  • Assist with inventory, ordering, and lab organization.
  • Maintain SOPs, records, and equipment coordination.
  • Support onboarding and training of new lab members.
  • Contribute to onboarding and training of new lab members where appropriate.

Qualifications

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in biology or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Hands-on mouse experience required (breeding, genotyping, colony management).
  • Familiarity with mouse genetics preferred.
  • Highly organized, reliable, and able to work independently.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

The Wistar Institute is a world leader in early-stage discovery science in the areas of cancer, immunology, and infectious disease. Wistar is committed to accelerating research advances from bench to bedside through brilliant science and distinctive approaches to collaboration among scientific investigators and academic and industry partners. Wistarโ€™s dynamic environment supports the advancement of discoveries that will change the future of human health.

The Wistar Institute is located in the University City area of Philadelphia, in the heart of the University of Pennsylvania Campus. Wistar provides resources to its faculty and staff that enable them to conduct cutting-edge collaborative research and provides outstanding intellectual environments and state-of-the-art facilities.

We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits package.

For more information about The Wistar Institute visit our website atย www.wistar.org.ย