ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UCLA Health

Staff Research Associate 3

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $121K/yr

Working closely with faculty, researchers, trainees, and external collaborators, the SRA III will contribute to the development of innovative assays, generation of high-quality research data, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch JobsResearch Trainee JobsResearch Trainee Jobs in California

Research Trainee information

See California salary details

$9

$21

$50

How much do research trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for research trainee in California is $21.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.53 and $24.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are research trainees?

Research trainees are individuals, often students or early-career professionals, who work under the guidance of experienced researchers to develop their skills and gain hands-on experience in conducting scientific or academic research. They assist with various aspects of research projects, such as data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and laboratory work. The goal is to provide practical training that prepares them for future independent research roles or advanced studies. Research traineeships are common in universities, research institutions, and some industries.

What are some common challenges Research Trainees face when transitioning from academic coursework to hands-on research projects?

Research Trainees often find the shift from structured academic learning to independent, hands-on research challenging. They may need to quickly learn new laboratory techniques, adapt to working with complex equipment, and manage their time between experiments, data analysis, and reporting results. Additionally, collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team and handling constructive feedback from supervisors can be demanding but are valuable for professional growth. Support from mentors and clear communication with team members can help trainees navigate these challenges successfully.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Research trainees typically do not earn $4,000 a week without a degree, as this pay level is uncommon for entry-level or trainee roles. High-paying jobs that can reach this weekly income without a degree often include specialized sales, real estate, or certain skilled trades like commercial diving or offshore drilling, which require specific skills or certifications. These roles usually involve significant experience, training, or licensing beyond a traditional degree.

What is the difference between Research Trainee vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch TraineeResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of a relevant degree programUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, research centers, academic institutionsLaboratories, universities, research projects
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, biotech companiesUniversities, research labs, healthcare organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles, training positionsClarifying responsibilities of research support roles

Research Trainee positions are often entry-level roles for students or recent graduates gaining research experience, while Research Assistants typically hold a degree and support ongoing research projects. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Research Trainee is more focused on training and learning, whereas the Research Assistant has more defined responsibilities.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position can be competitive and often requires relevant academic background, strong organizational skills, and sometimes prior research experience. Candidates who demonstrate proficiency with research tools and methods, such as data analysis or laboratory techniques, tend to have better chances of obtaining the role.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A research associate position typically does not require a PhD; many roles are open to candidates with a bachelor's or master's degree, depending on the field and level of responsibility. Advanced research roles or those in academia may prefer or require a PhD, along with relevant research experience and skills in data analysis or laboratory techniques.

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

To thrive as a Research Trainee, you need a solid foundation in research methods, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, often supported by a relevant degree or ongoing enrollment in an academic program. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and literature databases is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative and independent research settings. These competencies ensure that research is conducted accurately and efficiently, contributing to credible and impactful results.

What jobs can I do if I like research?

If you like research, you can pursue roles such as research assistant, research analyst, data analyst, or laboratory technician. These jobs typically require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with research methods and tools like statistical software or laboratory equipment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Research jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Trainee job openings:
Research Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,719 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

USC Gould School of Law

Los Angeles, CA

$68K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

This is a grant funded, fixed-term position (eligible for renewal)

The Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology (CCMB) at USC's Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry is recruiting a talented Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate to join the laboratory of Dr. Yang Chai (https://chailab.usc.edu/).

The Chai Lab is interested in the regulation of developmental patterning, organogenesis, stem cells and regenerative medicine. Our studies seek to define molecular mechanisms governing both normal and abnormal craniofacial development, providing scientific rationales for future therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat craniofacial birth defects, as well as stem cell-based craniofacial regenerative medicine.

CCMB is located on the Health Sciences Campus of USC, which provides a vibrant, highly collaborative and interactive research environment. Postdocs will participate in weekly seminars with other researchers who are interested in developmental biology and stem cells in tissue regeneration. There are ample cross-training opportunities in areas such as bioinformatics, biomedical engineering and translational medicine. Postdocs will also have opportunities to collaborate with experts nationally and internationally.

The candidate must have a PhD and be experienced with molecular and developmental biology. Our research projects are supported by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

To apply, please send your C.V. and three letters of recommendation to Dr. Yang Chai (c/o Ms. Stephanie Jonessjones99@usc.eduandychai@usc.edu).

Job Accountabilities:

  • Serves as a research trainee for the purpose of enhancing and developing research competencies. Participates in planning, designing and conducting highly technical and complex research projects under the direction of a supervisor.
  • Identifies, researches, compiles and evaluates data sources, background information and/or technology related to area of specialization.
  • Analyzes and evaluates research data and provides interpretations requiring significant knowledge of a specialized area of research.
  • Searches literature, utilizing all available resources including electronic, regarding new methodology and designs experiments accordingly.
  • Contributes to the development of research documentation for publication and/or prepares technical reports, papers and/or records.
  • Operates and maintains sophisticated laboratory/scientific equipment.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

The Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate will perform and train to use equipment for Immunology, Molecular genetics, Flow Cytometry, Microbiology, DNA & RNA isolation from FFPE tissues, RT qPCR, RT2 Profiler PCR Array, Immunohistochemistry, Tissue microarray, and Digital image analysis.

The annual base salary range for this position is $68,500 - $72,500. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope of responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Position: Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate
Type: Grant-funded, fixed-term (with potential for renewal)
Salary: $68,500 - $72,500 per year
Location: USC Health Sciences Campus (Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry)
Requirements & Skills
Education: Ph.D. required.
Background: Experience in molecular and developmental biology.
Lab Techniques: You will use and train on advanced methods like DNA/RNA isolation, RT-qPCR, Flow Cytometry, Immunohistochemistry, and digital image analysis.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$150327.htmld

Apply