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Research Student Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE212124 Position Information Department or Unit Name Fowler School of Engineering Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Research ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

This position offers the opportunity to work closely with a team of student researchers, providing a unique educational experience in a hands-on research environment. Responsibilities * Assist in the ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE184724 Position Information Department or Unit Name Fowler School of Engineering Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Research ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE180424 Position Information Department or Unit Name Fowler School of Engineering Position Headcount 2 Position Title Student Research ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE226724 Position Information Department or Unit Name Fowler School of Engineering Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Research ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Posting Details Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE189324 Position Information Department or Unit Name Psychology Position Headcount 3 Position Title Student Research ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... Student Research Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $18.00 - $18.00 Pay ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

... Student Research Assistant Academic Year Summer 2026 Term or Semester Summer - Fall Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $16.90 - $16.90 Pay Range ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE211724 Position Information Department or Unit Name Chemistry Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Research Assistant Academic ...

Chapman University

Student Research Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Posting Details Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE211724 Position Information Department or Unit Name Chemistry Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Research ...

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All JobsResearch Student JobsResearch Student Jobs in California

Research Student information

See California salary details

$2.1K

$6.4K

$7.7K

How much do research student jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average monthly pay for research student in California is $6,355.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,358.33 and $7,566.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research student?

Research students are individuals, typically enrolled in postgraduate programs such as a master's by research or a PhD, who conduct original research under the supervision of academic staff. Their primary focus is on investigating a specific topic, contributing new knowledge to their field, and developing advanced research skills. Research students often work on dissertations or theses and may also assist in teaching, publishing papers, or presenting at conferences.

What are some common challenges research students face when balancing research with coursework and how can they manage their time effectively?

Research Students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including coursework, laboratory or fieldwork, and meeting research milestones. One common challenge is managing deadlines for assignments while progressing on their thesis or research projects. Effective time management strategies include setting clear, achievable goals, regularly communicating with supervisors, and utilizing project management tools to track progress. Many institutions also offer workshops and peer support groups that can help Research Students develop strong organizational and coping skills.

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

To thrive as a Research Student, you need strong analytical abilities, proficiency in academic writing, and a solid foundation in your chosen field, often supported by enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with research management tools, statistical software (like SPSS or R), and literature databases is typically essential. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective time management are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for producing high-quality research, meeting deadlines, and contributing meaningful insights to your academic discipline.

What is the difference between Research Student vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch StudentResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in a degree program (e.g., Master's or PhD)Usually holds a relevant degree, often undergraduate or graduate
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institution, often part-time or full-time during studiesResearch labs, universities, or research centers, often as a paid position
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms

Research students are primarily enrolled in academic programs and focus on their own research projects, while research assistants support ongoing research activities, often as paid staff. Both roles involve research tasks but differ in their educational status and employment structure.

How to get research experience as a research student?

Research students can gain experience by assisting faculty with ongoing projects, participating in laboratory work, and attending research seminars. Developing skills in data analysis, literature review, and research methodologies, as well as publishing findings or presenting at conferences, can enhance their experience and credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Student jobs in California?

The most popular types of Research Student jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Student jobs in California?

For Research Student jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Student jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Student jobs in California are:

Research Student jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Student job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,262 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Graduate Research Student Assistant - CREST Grant - #738592324

CAL POLY POMONA FOUNDATION

Pomona, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description
Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises Employment Services
ANNOUNCEMENT OF POSITION VACANCY
SUMMARY: The Center for Research Advancement in Smart Manufacturing (CREST-RASM) at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP), funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), is seeking Part-Time Graduate Research Student Assistants to work under the supervision of Dr. Fatemeh Jamshidi, Dr. Mingyan Xiao, Dr. Ellips Masehian, Dr. Zahra Sotoudeh, or Dr. Shokoufeh Mirzaei.
CREST-RASM is seeking motivated Master's-level graduate students to engage in innovative, interdisciplinary research aligned with the center's mission in smart manufacturing, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced systems integration.
Graduate Research Students Assistants will have the opportunity to apply to the CREST-RASM PhD Pathway Program. This program establishes a pathway from CPP's Master's programs to the UCR STEM PhD programs. Each year, one to two highly successful Graduate Research Assistants will be selected to join the CREST-RASM PhD Pathway Program with University of California, Riverside (UCR). Selected participants will receive additional funding to support their MS program tuition fees and special consideration for admission into UCR's PhD programs in STEM disciplines. Students selected and admitted into the UCR PhD program will receive a funding package, including tuition, fees, and stipend support for up to two years, from the Cal Poly Pomona CREST grant toward their PhD with potential supplement funding from UCR in subsequent years. This initiative aims to prepare and support students for success in PhD studies and advanced STEM careers.
ABOUT US: As the largest employer of students on the Cal Poly Pomona campus, the Enterprises offers valuable work experience and hands-on training to approximately 1,500 Cal Poly Pomona students each year. The Enterprises offers positions in various fields; whether it is in the area of technology, science, retail, culinary arts, hospitality 1500 management, leadership or research grants, these student employees participate in Cal Poly Pomona's learn-by-doing philosophy and acquire practical skills in their designated field of study.
The Enterprises also contributes operating support to nearly 1,100 Enterprises and scholarship programs every year, including Bronco Athletics and the Pepsi Scholarship. In addition, the Enterprises administers grants and contracts, contributes to campus security, and supports several university publications. The Enterprises contributes over $1 million annually to Cal Poly Pomona.
SOME OF THE THINGS THAT YOU WILL GET TO DO (this is just a small sampling of work variety):
The position will assist with one or more of the following activities:
  • Be available to dedicate 10-20 hours per week during academic semesters and summer for research.
  • Conduct high-quality graduate-level research in one or more areas: computer vision, robotics, Al, smart manufacturing, mechanical/electrical systems, or cyber-physical infrastructure.
  • Work under the supervision of CPP faculty Principal Investigators.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of graduate students, undergraduate, and faculty across institutions.
  • Engage in professional development activities including grant proposal support, and conference presentations.
  • Prepare and present research findings in group meetings, seminars, and publications.
  • Support the recruitment and mentoring of undergraduate students participating in CREST-RASM.
  • Collaborate and create synergy with Other Subprojects

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • US citizenship is required
  • Current enrollment (or admission) in a CPP Master's program in Engineering, Computer Science, or other closely related STEM discipline.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, write theoretical research papers, and deliver professional research presentations.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with others.
  • Ability to quickly read, understand, and synthesize theoretical conference and journal papers.

Preferred
  • Demonstrated interest in pursuing a PhD and a long-term career in research, academia, or advanced STEM industries.
  • Foundational knowledge in at least one of the program's research focus areas (e.g., Al, robotics, cybersecurity, smart manufacturing, cyber-physical systems).
  • Prior research experience (undergraduate research, MS thesis, or industry projects).
  • Familiarity with tools and techniques in Al, robotics, computer vision, automation, or advanced manufacturing.
  • Experience working with diverse student populations or commitment to broadening participation in STEM.
  • Publications, conference presentations, or technical reports showcasing prior research work.

CSU along with Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises strongly recommend faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities to be immunized against COVID-19 or declare an exemption from doing so. The systemwide policy can be found at COVID-19 Vaccination Interim Policy and any questions may be sent to fdnhr@cpp.edu
Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises, Inc. may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodation with the employer.

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