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Researcher Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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TI Sr Clinical Research Assistant

Portland, OR · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Function/Duties of Position This OHSU Knight Cancer Institute TI Sr. Clinical Research Assistant (TI Sr. CRA) is responsible for the collection, entry, general management of oncology study data and ...

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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 Sep 6, 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 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.

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 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.

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.

How much does a research assistant get paid?

Research assistants typically earn an hourly wage or a stipend, with pay rates varying by industry, experience, and location. In the United States, the average hourly pay ranges from $12 to $20, and some positions may include benefits or academic credit, especially for graduate students or in research-intensive environments.

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.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research assistants typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or engineering. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with research tools or software are also important; some positions may require specific technical skills or experience with data analysis. Advanced degrees are often preferred for higher-level research roles.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% 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

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 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

171st of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview

This role is a key position as a research assistant in the laboratory of Dr. Brian O'Roak studying the genetic basis and developmental neuroscience of autism and related disorders. Key responsibilities will include supporting studies utilizing rodent and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) models, human cell culture, as well as human genomics projects.

Applicants must have basic laboratory skills and knowledge of standard molecular biology and cell culturing techniques, such as DNA extraction, molecular cloning, PCR, Sanger sequencing, working in tissue culture. A strong background with rodent models and/or stem cell tissue culture, including genotyping and animal husbandry, is also required. Experience in neuroscience, human genetics/genomics, or molecular biology (genome editing) is strongly preferred, as well as a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences. This position demands excellent organizational skills, time flexibility, and the ability to work both independently and in a team environment.

Function/Duties of Position
  • Provides assistance with mouse colony management and husbandry, tissue dissection, immunohistochemistry and genotyping. Assists with running behavioral assays and maintaining cell cultures.
  • Plans, conducts, and completes laboratory experiments under the supervision of the head of the laboratory.
  • Performs primary molecular genetic techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, enzymatic analyses, fluorescence assisted cell sorting (FACS), fluorescent and light microscopy, plasmid preparation, DNA isolation from mouse and human tissues, next-generation library preparation, and studies of gene expression.
  • Assignments require the performance of complex test procedures and analyses involving multiple procedures and a variety of technical approaches. Operates a variety of instruments and scientific equipment, including operation, quality control and maintenance.  Assists with experiments and assays, preparing solutions, collecting and entering data, maintaining databases, assuring compliance with established safety procedures and maintaining required documentation.
  • Collects, records, organizes and verifies the accuracy of data. Conducts literature searches and summarizes information in an appropriate format for a particular study; Documents and interprets results of experiments and reports to principal investigator. Presents experimental results at lab meetings and participates in journal and research group meetings.
  • Assists in the daily operation of the lab including hazardous waste disposal, sterilization of equipment, cleaning glassware, general servicing of equipment and ordering lab supplies, and preparation of media and buffers.
Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's in relevant field; OR

  • Associate's AND 3 years of relevant experience; OR

  • 4 years of relevant experience; OR

  • Equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Experience with mouse handling and colony managment or stem cell tissue culture.

  • Basic laboratory skills and knowledge of standard molecular biology techniques.

  • Ability to manage a mouse colony, including setting up matings, collecting tissue,  and genotyping.
  • Ability to culture human cells using sterile tissue culture techniques and familiarity with stem cells.

  • High level of attention to detail and proven ability to manage time effectively, especially with competing priorities.

  • Knowledge of academic research settings and ability to work with qualitative and/or quantitative methods of data collection.

  • Ability to communicate well and work with faculty and staff within the department and University.

  • Ability to take initiative and work independently and in a team environment.

  • Ability to complete tasks in an accurate and timely manner.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in the biological sciences.

  • 2-4 years of experience serving on a research team.

  • Human genetics/genomics.

  • Advanced molecular biology.

  • Next-generation library preparation.
Why apply to OHSU?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.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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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

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