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Student Research Assistant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$40K - $42K/yr

Research Assistant Department: Executive Office Employment Type: Full Time Location: Denver, CO ... student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for ...

The Faculty Research Assistant will play a key role in supporting grant-funded projects focused on ... students, and/or groups historically underrepresented in higher education. This position is ...

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Student Research Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$7

$17

$25

How much do student research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for student research assistant in Colorado is $17.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student research assistant?

Student Research Assistants are students, often at the undergraduate or graduate level, who support faculty or researchers in conducting academic or scientific research. Their responsibilities may include data collection, literature reviews, data analysis, laboratory work, or helping prepare research reports and presentations. These positions provide hands-on experience in research methodologies and can help students develop valuable skills for future academic or professional pursuits.

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

To thrive as a Student Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid academic background related to the research field. Familiarity with data collection methods, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), and literature search tools is often required. Effective communication, time management, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for collaborating with faculty and peers. These competencies ensure accurate research results, efficient project completion, and a valuable contribution to research teams.

What are some common challenges faced by student research assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Student Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing research responsibilities with their academic workload, managing time effectively, and adapting to unfamiliar research methodologies or tools. To address these challenges, it's important to communicate regularly with your supervising researcher, prioritize tasks, and seek guidance when needed. Many institutions also offer workshops or support resources to help students develop research and time management skills, making it easier to navigate the demands of the role successfully.

What is the difference between Student Research Assistant vs Research Intern?

AspectStudent Research AssistantResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, often pursuing a related degreeTypically undergraduate or graduate students, sometimes recent graduates
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university research projectsResearch institutions, corporate labs, or academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research programsResearch organizations, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonStudent Research AssistantResearch Intern

The main difference between a Student Research Assistant and a Research Intern lies in their typical work setting and credentials. Student Research Assistants are usually enrolled students working on academic research projects within universities, while Research Interns may be students or recent graduates working in research roles across various organizations. Both roles involve assisting with research tasks, but the context and industry focus differ.

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

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Student Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Student Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Student Research Assistant job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,240 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

$40K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Research Assistant
Department: Executive Office
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Denver, CO
Compensation: $40,250 - $42,750 / year
Description
The Public Interest Network is hiring a Research Assistant who will work closely with leadership staff to develop our in-house "think tank," which is dedicated to re-orienting America's political and cultural conversation.
According to a 2020 study in Nature, the combined mass of man-made things now outweighs all life on Earth. We already produce more food than we can eat and more clothes than we can wear. And our continued pursuit of limitless economic growth and job creation has profound consequences, amongst them: the pollution of our environment, the use of toxic chemicals in products - even toys - on store shelves, and a fanatical commitment to keeping people in jobs even if those jobs are dangerous or soul-crushing or unnecessary.
It's time to change our thinking and ask big questions, like:
  • Why do we still treat economic growth as synonymous with progress, even as its costs overwhelm its benefits?
  • What if the real challenge of automation is not job loss, but our inability to imagine a good life beyond traditional employment?

Key Responsibilities
The research assistant will provide support to the think tank team and participate in archiving, research, writing, analysis, communications, and other efforts to further our mission. This position requires excellent judgment, discretion and the ability to oversee significant projects. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Identifying and archiving useful resources for writing and research projects.
  • Reviewing and drawing conclusions from research and literature across multiple fields including environmental science, public health, history, and economics.
  • Assigning, writing and/or promoting reports, reviews, articles and papers.
  • Assisting with the development of new media strategies including using social media platforms, podcasts, and other sources to disseminate our research and ideas.
  • Attending relevant conferences or retreats with internal staff or external professionals.
  • Potential additional projects such as helping to curate a monthly publication or managing an intern program.

Qualifications
  • You're interested in solving new problems. You have a strong affinity for our vision of a new politics that faces today's challenges head on.
  • You're open-minded. You can get your head around complex issues, are willing to have open dialogue about problems, and are okay working with people whose viewpoints may differ.
  • You're smart, detail-oriented, and organized. You can manage multiple projects.
  • You can write. You may have experience writing for publications - at a campus newspaper, writing newsletters and emails for a group you volunteer with, or similar relevant experience.
  • You're creative. You're able to anticipate or define a problem, brainstorm solutions, propose or decide on a course of action, and follow through. You can think on your feet and respond to unexpected challenges with confidence.
  • You're accountable. You respect goals and deadlines.
  • You're ready to put in the hard work to start from scratch with just an idea and help turn it into a lasting institution.

Ideal candidates will have 1-3 years of experience, but entry-level candidates with a passion for our issues, mission, and values are encouraged to apply.
Benefits
Compensation and Benefits
The starting target annual compensation for this position is $40,250-$42,750. The Public Interest Network offers an excellent benefits package. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.
Location
Denver, CO
Why work with The Public Interest Network? Check out ten reasons: https://publicinterestnetwork.org/why-work-with-us/.
Our Mission and Values
The Public Interest Network operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit https://publicinterestnetwork.org/core-values for things you should know about our network when you apply. Within the first document you will find a link to a second; please read both carefully.
Please do not use AI to help draft your cover letter or responses to our application questions. We want to know how you think and write.
Fund for the Public Interest is an equal opportunity employer.