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Researcher Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Legacy Health

Research Assistant 2

Portland, OR

$25.83 - $36.93/hr

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a Principal Investigator, general and technical assistance in support of a specific research program ...

Legacy Health

Research Assistant 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$25.83 - $36.93/hr

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a Principal Investigator, general and technical assistance in support of a specific research program ...

Legacy Health

Research Asst 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$25.83/hr

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a Principal Investigator, general and technical assistance in support of a specific research program ...

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All JobsResearcher JobsResearcher Assistant JobsResearcher Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Researcher Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.8K

$119.9K

$174.5K

How much do researcher assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for researcher assistant in Portland, OR is $119,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $163,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Researcher Assistant, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a relevant academic background, often in the field of research. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), online research databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively help someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, efficient project support, and meaningful contributions to research outcomes.

What is the difference between Researcher Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectResearcher AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree or ongoing education in a related fieldUsually a master's degree or higher in a relevant discipline
Work EnvironmentSupportive research settings, labs, or academic institutionsIndependent research projects, often with more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, research organizations, private sector R&D
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research rolesCompared for more advanced research positions

The main difference between a Researcher Assistant and a Research Associate lies in their experience, education, and responsibilities. Researcher Assistants typically hold a bachelor's degree and support research activities, while Research Associates usually have higher qualifications and take on more independent research tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but they differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What are some typical challenges researcher assistants face when balancing multiple projects, and how are these usually managed within research teams?

Researcher Assistants often juggle several projects with overlapping deadlines and priorities. This can be challenging, especially when coordinating data collection, literature reviews, and reporting tasks simultaneously. Most research teams address this by holding regular check-ins, using project management tools, and setting clear expectations about deliverables. Developing strong organizational skills and proactive communication with supervisors and team members are key strategies to manage workload effectively.

Do research assistants get paid a lot?

Research assistants' salaries vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience, but they generally earn modest wages compared to other roles in research or academia. Entry-level research assistants often earn hourly wages that align with minimum wage standards, while those with specialized skills or advanced degrees may earn higher pay. Compensation can also include benefits such as academic credits or stipends in some settings.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research assistants typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or engineering. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, proficiency with data analysis tools, and good communication abilities are also important qualifications.

What is a researcher assistant?

Researcher Assistants are professionals who support scientists, scholars, or other researchers in conducting studies and experiments. Their tasks often include collecting and analyzing data, preparing materials, conducting literature reviews, and maintaining laboratory equipment or records. Researcher Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that research projects run smoothly and efficiently. They may work in academic, scientific, technical, or medical settings, and often gain valuable experience that can lead to further career advancement in research or academia.

How much does a research assistant get paid?

Research assistants typically earn an hourly wage or a stipend, with salaries ranging from around $12 to $25 per hour depending on experience, location, and field. In academic settings, they may also receive stipends or part-time salaries, often requiring basic skills in data collection and analysis.
What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Researcher Assistant jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Researcher Assistant job openings:
Researcher Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Researcher Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,945 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Research Assistant 2

Legacy Health

Portland, OR

$25.83 - $36.93/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Innovative research paves the way for improved patient outcomes. You can be a part of the research that’s driving new treatments and procedures at Legacy. In your role, you will provide general and technical assistance, initiate new protocols to improve laboratory operation and help to train students and entry-level personnel. If you’re ready to grow your skills and share in the Legacy mission of making life better for others, we invite you to consider this opportunity.

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a Principal Investigator, general and technical assistance in support of a specific research program, including (but not limited to): clerical tasks; laboratory maintenance; ordering and inventorying laboratory supplies; production, collection and analysis of scientific data; and preparation of illustrations for publication. Research assistants at this level, unlike entry-level research assistants, are expected to carry out defined tasks with some independence, to initiate new procedures to improve laboratory operation, and to assist in the training of students and entry-level laboratory personnel.

Preferred experience: molecular work (western blots, IHC, genotyping), and behavioral work using established preclinical research models. Familiarization with confocal microscopy and image analysis software (e.g. Image J). Experience with preclinical surgical techniques and colony management. Neuroscience background is preferred.


Provides adequate support to Principal Investigator in carrying out laboratory experiments. 

  • Following specific direction from Principal Investigator, carries out adequate preparations to ensure successful execution of planned experiments.

Efficiently manages the laboratory.

  • Maintains complete and accurate records.
  • Manages inventories.
  • Orders supplies and equipment.
  • Cleans laboratory.

Collects, analyzes and carefully documents data under direction of Principal Investigator. 

  • Performs statistical analysis of data.
  • Operates electronic equipment and computers. 

Maintains laboratory paperwork.

  • Photocopies.
  • Maintains vendor files and catalogs.
  • Tracks laboratory purchases.

Participates in grant-writing.

 

May serve on committees, as requested by Principal Investigator.


Education:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required; Master’s degree, advanced training, or equivalent experience highly preferred.

Experience:

One year of laboratory experience required. Experience with grant writing preferred.

Skills:

Clerical skills; general laboratory maintenance skills; instruction of human subjects; operation of mechanical components and electronic instrumentation; and writing or operation of computer programs, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases image analysis, statistical analysis, and scientific graphing programs.

.


May be required depending on specific position.


USD $25.83 - USD $36.93 /Hr.

Our Legacy is good for health for Our People, Our Patients, Our Communities, Our World. Above all, we will do the right thing.


If you are passionate about our mission and believe you can contribute to our team, we encourage you to apply—even if you don't meet every qualification listed. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can grow and succeed.


Legacy Health is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion or creed, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To learn more about our employee benefits click here: www.legacyhealth.org/For-Health-Professionals/careers/benefiting-you

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