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How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab in Detroit, MI is $20.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $25.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

How to become a researcher in a research lab?

To become a researcher in a research lab, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required, with many positions favoring or requiring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced roles. Gaining experience through internships, developing strong analytical and technical skills, and familiarity with laboratory tools or software can improve prospects. Building a solid publication record or research portfolio also enhances eligibility for research positions.

How to join a research lab with no experience?

Research labs often accept volunteers or interns with little to no experience, especially if you demonstrate enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. You can start by reaching out to faculty or lab managers, expressing your interest, and highlighting any relevant skills or coursework; gaining basic knowledge of research methods or laboratory tools can also improve your chances.

What does a research lab do?

A research lab conducts experiments, collects data, and analyzes results to advance knowledge in a specific field. Researchers in labs use specialized tools and techniques, often working with equipment like microscopes or computers, to develop new products, solutions, or understanding. The work typically involves following protocols, documenting findings, and collaborating with other scientists or professionals.

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 cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Research Lab jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Research Lab job openings:

Research Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,920 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Research Lab Specialist Inter

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

167th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
Michigan Center for Translation Pathology (MCTP) is seeking an energetic, highly motivated individual for a Research Lab Specialist Intermediate/Associate in the therapeutic oncology team. The successful candidate is expected to thrive in a fast-paced dynamic environment. In this role, the candidate will work as part of a team screening small molecule inhibitors/protein degraders and performing functional validation for targeted therapy of cancer in vitro (30%) and in vivo (70%). The candidate will perform routine laboratory experimental procedures in one or more areas of work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.
Responsibilities*
  • Maintain and manage mouse breeding colonies, including genotyping, setting up mating cages, and monitoring animal health and survival.
  • Perform aseptic animal surgeries, including castration, ovariectomy, and tumor implantation into renal capsule, mammary fat pad, pancreas, prostate, and subcutaneous sites.
  • Administer drugs in mice (and occasionally rats) via oral gavage, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, and intravenous injection.
  • Conduct full necropsies in mice (and occasionally rats) for collection of tumors and various organs.
  • Monitor tumor growth using caliper measurements and bioluminescence imaging (IVIS), depending on the tumor model.
  • Prepare compounds for in vivo studies including formulation and preparation for various drug delivery methods.
  • Perform correlative studies associated with in vivo experiments, including histology preparation, tissue embedding, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and organization/archiving of samples (FFPE blocks, frozen tissues, histology slides, etc.).
  • Routine cell culture maintenance: passaging of adherent and suspension cells, freezing and recovering cell lines, and keep good record for cell line bank.
  • Develop and maintain primary cell culture or organoid from patients and mouse models.
  • Functional assay: perform protein, RNA and gDNA extraction from cells and tumor tissue, western blot, confocal microscopy slide preparation, qPCR
  • Collect and analyze data from experiments, documenting findings and presenting them to the research team.
  • Maintain accurate records of experimental procedures and results.
  • Collaborate with other members of the research team to ensure research projects are completed on time and meet quality standards.
  • Assist with maintaining laboratory equipment, ensuring it is properly calibrated and functioning correctly.
  • Follow all laboratory safety protocols and procedures.

Required Qualifications*
  • Bachelor's degree in Pharmacology, Immunology, Biology, or related field.
  • 4-5 years of experience in biology related research for intermediate level, and 1-2 year of experience for associate level. Research Lab Specialist Intermediate position maybe underfilled with Associate level, which is dependent on the candidate's qualification.
  • Animal aseptic surgery experience.
  • Experience on establish of cancer xenograft mouse model and administration of therapeutic agents.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team to instruct junior lab members.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, GraphPad, and other scientific software programs.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Molecular biology, Cancer biology, and immunology research lab experience.
  • Familiar with PubMed or other literature search portals.
  • Experience on data organization and presentation to principal investigator.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world's most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Underfill Statement
This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
278711
Working Title
Research Lab Specialist Inter
Job Title
Research Lab Specialist Inter
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
Medical School
Department
MM Ctr fr Translational Path.
Posting Begin/End Date
7/21/2026 - 8/20/2026
Career Interest
Research

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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