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Undergraduate Research Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Lab Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day operations to ensure efficient lab ... undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of ...

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Undergraduate Research Lab information

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How much do undergraduate research lab jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for undergraduate research lab in the United States is $66,985.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an undergraduate research lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Undergraduate Research Lab Assistant, you generally need a solid background in scientific principles, attention to detail, and relevant coursework in your field of study. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as Excel or SPSS), and knowledge of safety protocols are often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and manage multiple tasks. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate research results, maintaining lab safety, and supporting the overall success of research projects.

What is the difference between Undergraduate Research Lab vs Research Assistant?

AspectUndergraduate Research LabResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsUndergraduate student, often pursuing a bachelor's degreeTypically college-educated, sometimes with relevant coursework or experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs within universities or collegesResearch settings in academic, government, or private sectors
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic research projectsResearch institutions, labs, universities, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles for undergraduatesExploring research support roles for college students or early-career individuals

In summary, an Undergraduate Research Lab position is typically held by undergraduate students working within university labs, focusing on gaining research experience. A Research Assistant may have similar responsibilities but can be more experienced or employed in various research settings beyond academia. Both roles support research projects but differ mainly in credentials and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by students working in an undergraduate research lab, and how can they be overcome?

Students in undergraduate research labs often encounter challenges such as managing time between coursework and lab responsibilities, learning new technical skills, and adapting to collaborative research environments. To overcome these challenges, it's important to communicate regularly with your supervisor, seek guidance from more experienced lab members, and stay organized with clear schedules and task lists. Embracing a proactive attitude and being open to asking questions can also help accelerate your learning and integration into the research team.

What is an undergraduate research lab?

An undergraduate research lab is a workspace within a university or college where undergraduate students can participate in hands-on research projects under the guidance of faculty members or graduate students. These labs provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience in their field of study, learn laboratory techniques, and contribute to ongoing research. Participating in an undergraduate research lab can enhance a student's academic experience, help develop critical thinking skills, and improve prospects for graduate school or future employment.
More about Undergraduate Research Lab jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Undergraduate Research Lab jobs?

The most popular types of Undergraduate Research Lab jobs are:

Infographic showing various Undergraduate Research Lab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,985 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Research Lab Specialist Associate

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Job Summary
The APS Research Laboratories at the University of Michigan are seeking a motivated Research Lab Specialist Associate to join a collaborative research program investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that connect autoimmunity, inflammation, and thrombosis.
Our laboratory studies how immune and vascular cells, particularly neutrophils and platelets, contribute to autoimmune and thromboinflammatory diseases. Current projects combine mechanistic studies using primary human cells and patient-derived samples with biochemical, cell culture, imaging, flow cytometry, and mouse-based approaches. Areas of active investigation include neutrophil activation, interactions between neutrophils and platelets, extracellular vesicles, inflammatory signaling pathways, and experimental models of thrombosis and vascular dysfunction.
The successful candidate will work closely with physicians, senior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and students. Day-to-day training and supervision will be provided by a senior member of the laboratory. The position is well suited for an individual who enjoys learning and applying a variety of experimental approaches. Specific responsibilities may be tailored to the successful candidate's prior experience and strengths, as well as the evolving needs of the research program.
Responsibilities*
The Research Lab Specialist Associate will contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and documentation of experiments addressing mechanisms of autoimmunity and thromboinflammation. Responsibilities may include:
  • Isolating and working with primary human blood cells, including neutrophils and platelets.
  • Performing mammalian cell culture and cell-based stimulation and functional assays.
  • Conducting biochemical and molecular assays, including immunoblotting, ELISA, protein purification, and analysis of cell-derived vesicles and inflammatory mediators.
  • Performing flow cytometry, imaging flow cytometry, and fluorescence or confocal microscopy.
  • Conducting mouse experiments, including injections, blood and tissue collection, tissue processing, and experimental models of inflammation and thrombosis.
  • Processing and analyzing human and mouse biospecimens.
  • Maintaining detailed and accurate experimental records and organizing study data.
  • Analyzing experimental results, preparing figures, and presenting findings at laboratory meetings.
  • Assisting with the development and optimization of experimental protocols.
  • Working collaboratively with other laboratory members and investigators.
  • Maintaining laboratory supplies, equipment, and shared workspaces.
  • Contributing, as appropriate, to manuscripts, abstracts, progress reports, and other scientific communications.

Required Qualifications*
  • Bachelors degree in biology, biochemistry, immunology, molecular or cellular biology, or a related scientific field.
  • Previous hands-on laboratory experience gained through employment, research training, or substantial undergraduate research.
  • Strong organizational skills and careful attention to detail.
  • Ability to maintain complete and accurate experimental records.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability and willingness to learn new experimental techniques.

Desired Qualifications*
Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred but not required:
  • Primary human cell isolation or culture.
  • Mammalian cell culture.
  • Protein biochemistry, immunoblotting, ELISA, or related biochemical methods.
  • Flow cytometry or imaging flow cytometry.
  • Fluorescence or confocal microscopy.
  • Mouse-based experimental procedures.
  • Tissue collection, histology, or immunostaining.
  • Quantitative analysis of experimental data using programs such as FlowJo, GraphPad Prism, or RStudio.
  • Prior research related to immunology, autoimmunity, inflammation, hematology, vascular biology, or thrombosis.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world's most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
280869
Working Title
Research Lab Specialist Associate
Job Title
Research Lab Specialist Assoc
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
Medical School
Department
MM Int Med-Rheumatology
Posting Begin/End Date
7/31/2026 - 8/14/2026
Career Interest
Research

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About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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