ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Student Research Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsStudent Research JobsStudent Research Assistant JobsStudent Research Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Student Research Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$6

$15

$23

How much do student research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for student research assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $15.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.69 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.

Can I be a student research assistant without a PhD?

Yes, student research assistant positions typically do not require a PhD; they are often available to undergraduate or graduate students pursuing relevant coursework or degrees. These roles usually focus on assisting with research tasks, data collection, and analysis, and may require basic research skills and familiarity with tools like spreadsheets or statistical software.

Do research assistants get paid a lot?

Research assistants, including student research assistants, typically earn hourly wages that vary by institution, location, and experience. In many cases, they are paid modestly compared to full-time professionals, often ranging from minimum wage to slightly above, and compensation may include stipends or academic credit instead of high salaries.

How hard is it to get a job as a student research assistant?

Securing a student research assistant position typically requires strong academic performance, relevant coursework, and good organizational skills. Competition can vary depending on the institution and field, but demonstrating enthusiasm, reliability, and familiarity with research tools can improve chances of being hired.

What qualifications do I need to be a student research assistant?

To be a student research assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a college or university, have a strong academic record, and possess relevant skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, or computer proficiency. Some positions may require specific coursework or prior experience in the research area.

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Student Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Student Research Assistant job openings:

Student Research Assistant jobs near you

Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Civil and Environmental Engineering invites applications for one full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate to collaborate with our team in environmental and analytical chemistry to study fate and transport of emerging pollutants in the environment. 

The position is available to start as soon as filled. The Postdoctoral researcher will report to Dr. Fuhar Dixit. The compensation package includes a competitive salary, health benefits, career mentoring, and required travel.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone. 

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community! 

Required Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related field
  • Background in polymer chemistry
  • Experience with the ability to manage and mentor undergraduates, Masters, or starting doctoral students. 
  • Strong written and oral communication, management, and team leadership
  • Effective interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work in a team environment with a diverse group of scientific and technical personnel. 
  • KEY SUCCESS FACTORS:
    • Ability to work with internal and external collaborators to contribute and facilitate progress in research projects.
    • Ability to coordinate with personnel from various technical backgrounds. 
    • Ability to deliver project presentations and devote time and energy under deadlines to prepare presentations to sponsors in written and oral format.
    • Lead as Author/Co-author to actively publish technical publications, targeting peer-reviewed journals.
    • ability to manage and mentor graduates student(s) in research
    • strong written and oral communication skills
    • knowledge in environmental contaminants and analytical chemistry
    • effective interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment with a diverse group of individuals 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience with polymer synthesis would be preferred. 
  • Communication skills, in person or over ZOOM/TEAMS, with sponsors and students are key to success
  • Strong background in preparing/delivering impromptu project presentations
  • Demonstrated experience in publishing journal papers

Work Location

  • Location: Knoxville, TN

  • Onsite 

Compensation and Benefits 

  • Anticipated hiring range: $75,024

  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments:

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter

For full consideration, a completed application should be submitted by August 14th, 2026.

  • Conduct Research, perform various tasks associated with contracted research as well as new research initiatives, and disseminate the results via publications. 
  • Assist the Principal Investigator in preparing presentations, reports, interacting with sponsors in person or via emails, and prepare proposals.
  • Ensure safe laboratory and work space environment, host tours, mentor students, upkeep equipment, assist in training new users as needed, and keep up with documentation of laboratory activities and related data as records.

Apply