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Student Research Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Students currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Students currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Students currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, or ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

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Student Research Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$17

$34

$49

How much do student research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for student research associate in Portland, OR is $34.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.79 and $39.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Student Research Associates face when balancing academic responsibilities with research commitments?

Student Research Associates often juggle coursework deadlines, exams, and research tasks simultaneously, which can be challenging to manage. Effective time management and clear communication with both academic advisors and research supervisors are essential to prevent conflicts and ensure productivity. Many students find it helpful to set regular check-ins with their research team and plan their schedules in advance to accommodate both requirements. Additionally, learning to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance can significantly reduce stress and enhance performance in both areas.

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

AspectStudent Research AssociateResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, relevant courseworkTypically students or early career professionals
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university settingsResearch institutions, labs, or corporate R&D
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Student Research Associate and a Research Intern lies in their typical work environment and credentials. Student Research Associates are usually enrolled students working within academic settings, focusing on coursework and research projects. Research Interns may be students or early professionals working in research labs or industry R&D. Both roles involve research tasks, but the context and employer types differ.

What does a research associate do?

A research associate is responsible for conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting research projects in a laboratory or academic setting. They often use specialized tools and techniques, follow protocols, and may assist in preparing reports or publications. The role typically requires strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Student Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Research Associate, you need a solid understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, usually gained through relevant coursework or a degree program. Familiarity with tools like statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, or citation management systems is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and time management are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and handling multiple tasks. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate data collection, efficient project progression, and meaningful contributions to research outcomes.

What are Student Research Associates?

Student Research Associates are students, typically at the undergraduate or graduate level, who assist faculty or professional researchers with academic or scientific research projects. Their responsibilities may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and helping with experiments or fieldwork. This role provides hands-on experience in research methodologies and often helps students develop skills essential for future academic or professional careers.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position can be competitive, often requiring relevant coursework, strong academic performance, and sometimes prior research experience. Candidates who demonstrate skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or specific tools like SPSS or MATLAB may have an advantage, but opportunities vary by institution and field.

How much is a research associate paid?

Research associate salaries vary depending on the industry, location, and experience, but typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. In academic or research settings, they may earn between $15 and $30 per hour, often with opportunities for stipends or fellowships for students involved in research projects.

What qualifications do I need to be a research associate?

To become a student research associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or current enrollment in a relevant academic program, along with strong research, analytical, and communication skills. Some positions may require familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, or specific subject knowledge depending on the research area.
What are the most commonly searched types of Student Research jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Student Research jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Student Research Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,781 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, 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

154th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

The Braun Laboratory at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute is a translational research group focused on the epigenetic mechanisms that drive myeloid malignancies, with a primary focus on myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Our research program is organized around a core translational pipeline: we identify epigenetic vulnerabilities in myeloid cancer cells, develop combination strategies pairing mutation-directed kinase inhibitors with epigenetic agents, and advance the most promising approaches toward clinical application. Our mechanistic work is grounded in genomic and epigenomic methods spanning bulk and single-cell approaches. Samples from our clinical program inform the biological questions we ask in the laboratory, and the answers we find move directly into clinical trial design. This closed loop between patient care and laboratory discovery is the defining feature of how we work.

Function/Duties of Position

The Senior Research Associate independently conducts and oversees the design and execution of research studies and day-to-day laboratory operations within the Braun Lab, under the direction of the PI. The position focuses on:

  • Primary human AML and MPN patient sample models
  • Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) biology
  • Epigenomic profiling
  • In vivo mouse studies

Core Technical Responsibilities

  • Independent design and execution of complex experimental programs
  • Primary cell culture of patient-derived samples and HSPCs, and molecular biology (cloning, CRISPR editing, qRT-PCR, western blot)
  • Genomic and epigenomic library preparation and sequencing (bulk and single-cell)
  • Lentiviral and retroviral vector production and primary cell transduction
  • In vivo mouse studies including xenograft models, pharmacologic drug administration (oral, IP, IV, SC), and in vivo imaging
  • Sustained management of 3-4 concurrent experimental workstreams, using instrument time, incubation periods, and cell growth windows to advance parallel projects
Required Qualifications
  • PhD in a relevant field and one year of relevant experience, OR Master's degree in a relevant field and five years of relevant experience, OR bachelor's degree in a relevant field and nine years of relevant experience
  • Demonstrated expertise in primary cell biology, in vivo mouse modeling, molecular biology, and genomic methods, with a publication record and sustained scientific output demonstrated by research products
  • Expertise in primary cell culture, including patient-derived and primary human cells
  • Proficiency in molecular biology, including cloning, CRISPR gene editing, qRT-PCR, and western blot
  • Experience with genomic and epigenomic library preparation and sequencing
  • Experience with viral vector production and primary cell transduction
  • Proficiency in in vivo mouse models, including xenograft studies, pharmacologic drug administration, and in vivo imaging
  • Flow cytometry
  • Publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Experience mentoring research staff and students
  • Ability to independently develop, optimize, and troubleshoot complex experimental protocols
  • Strong written and verbal scientific communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent experimental programs
  • Experience presenting at national and international scientific conferences
  • Knowledge of IACUC and biosafety (BSL-2) requirements
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in myeloid malignancy or hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) biology
  • Experience with bone marrow transplantation models
  • Radiation safety knowledge
Additional Details

Apply online. Please be sure to upload a Cover Letter and Resume/CV.

 

We offer a variety of benefits on top of joining a thriving organization:

  • Medical, dental and vision coverage at no or low cost to employees
    • Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents
  • Several retirement plans to choose from with contributions from OHSU
  • 25 days a year of paid time off
  • 8 days of sick time off
  • Commuter subsidies
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Access to group life insurance, disability insurance and other supplemental benefits
  • Annual Merit Increase
  • Growth/Development Opportunities
  • Employee discounts to local and major businesses

#linkedin #indeed #knightcancerjobs #knightresearchandlabjobs #knightresearchjobs #knightinternal

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: FULL_TIME

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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