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Student Research Assistant Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Research Specialist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$36.61K/yr

More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus ... Jane Roberts (Neurodevelopmental Disorders Lab), the research specialist will assist with NIH ...

Research Specialist I

Columbia, SC · On-site

$36.61K/yr

More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus ... Jane Roberts (Neurodevelopmental) Disorders Lab), the research specialist will assist with NIH ...

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Student Research Assistant information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$6

$15

$22

How much do student research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for student research assistant in Columbia, SC is $15.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Student Research Assistants?

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 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 popular job titles related to Student Research Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC? For Student Research Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Student Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Student Research Assistant job openings:
Research Assistant

$40K/yr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Logo
Posting Number
TMP02422PO25
Job Code Title
Research Specialist I
Advertised Title
Research Assistant
Campus
Columbia
College/Division
College of Arts and Sciences
Department
CAS Psychology
Salary
$40,000
Location of Vacancy
Columbia, SC
Part/Full Time
Full Time
Hours per Week
37.5
Work Schedule
Standard working schedule: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department
Job Search Category
Other Professional
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Temporary Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers temporary employees expected to work at least 30 hours per week health and life insurance, flexible spending accounts and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
Investigate how genetic and environmental factors contribute to brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder. The Research Assistant will provide day-to-day research support to graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, including data entry, pre-processing, and literature review.
Qualifications
Requires a bachelor's degree in area of specialty (Neuroscience). Candidates with strong coding experience preferred; strong interpersonal skills and experience working with children and/or parents; demonstrated ability to work independently and participate on a team.
Job Duties
Job Duty
Responsible for coordinating the recruitment and scheduling of child and parent participants for research studies. This includes drafting and sending invitations to potential participants. Collaborating with research staff to align recruitment efforts with study protocols and timelines.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
30
Job Duty
Manage daily administrative operations of the lab (e.g., scheduling and communication) managing communications such as appointment reminders and follow-ups, and maintaining accurate records of participant engagement. Ensures timely and respectful outreach, facilitates smooth scheduling processes, and supports participant retention through consistent and clear communication.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
10
Job Duty
Conducts neuroimaging and clinical data collection for adolescent research participants. Provides clear instructions and support to adolescent participants and their families to facilitate successful data collection sessions.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
30
Job Duty
Responsible for processing, analyzing, and interpreting research data using appropriate statistical and computational methods. Prepares detailed reports and presentations contributing to manuscript development and supporting publications.
Essential Function
Yes
Percentage of Time
30
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
12/01/2025
Proposed End Date
11/30/2026
Job Open Date
09/16/2025
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicant
This position is open until filled. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
Quicklink for Posting
https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/194964
EEO Statement