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Researcher Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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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:
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.

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Vollum Institute is a privately endowed research institute at Oregon Health & Science University dedicated to basic research that will lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Vollum scientists have broad-ranging interests that coalesce around molecular neurobiology and cellular physiology. Their work has transformed the field of neuroscience and, in particular, have provided important advances in the study of synaptic transmission, neuronal development, neurotransmitter transporters, ion channels and the neurobiology of disease.

The purpose of the position is to assist with setting up the Yang Laboratory, to provide fly husbandry and immunostaining support, and to carry out research projects in the Yang lab. In addition, the position entails help with lab up-keep and ordering and maintaining laboratory resources.

  • Perform immunostaining and confocal microscopy and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform behavioral experiments using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) and analyze resulting data.
  • Perform imaging experiments using fruit flies and analyze resulting data.
  • Ordering, organize and manage laboratory supplies.
  • Prepare common lab reagents and solutions for scientific experiments.
  • Teach other lab members experimental and data analysis techniques.
  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor's in any field; OR

  • Associate's AND 2 years of relevant experience; OR

  • 3 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

  • Basic laboratory skills

  • Confocal microscopy skills

  • Light sheet microscopy skills

  • Image analysis skills with FIJI, Imaris, and LuxBundle

  • Teaching/tutoring/mentoring in biology or another STEM field

  • At least 1 research project in the form of a paper (published or on bioRxiv) or an undergraduate thesis.

  • D. melanogaster husbandry, genetic screening, and microsurgery skills.

  • Skill at using FlyBase and BLAST.

  • Programming skills in Python.

  • Immunostaining.

  • DNA and RNA extraction skills.

  • NMR and IR spectroscopy skills.

  • Chromatography skills.

  • Has taken at least 1 course at an undergraduate level or higher in each of the following areas: genetics, computational biology, and developmental biology.
  • Organized, independent, and possesses problem-solving abilities.

  • Ability to communicate openly to maintain effective working relationships.


Monday - Friday, days, with occasional evening or weekend work.

Typical laboratory environment; standing, sitting and lifting are required.

Benefits 

  • Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
  • $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
  • Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
  • Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
  • 9 paid holidays per year.
  • Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • Childcare service discounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses.

We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887