How much does a Research Assistant make?
Research Assistants play a key role in many different fields. They often work in labs, offices, or on-site. Their job is to help with research projects. This can include gathering data, analyzing information, and supporting scientists or researchers. The average yearly salary for a Research Assistant is around $46,809. This is a good starting point for those new to the field.
Research Assistants can earn different amounts based on their experience and the type of work they do. Here are some common salary ranges:
- 2.68% of Research Assistants earn less than $25,000.
- 9.45% earn between $25,000 and $30,000.
- 14.58% earn between $30,000 and $35,000.
- 19.72% earn between $35,000 and $40,000.
- 16.81% earn between $40,000 and $45,000.
- 10.81% earn between $45,000 and $50,000.
- 7.67% earn between $50,000 and $55,000.
- 6.56% earn between $55,000 and $60,000.
- 1.51% earn between $60,000 and $65,000.
- 1.84% earn between $65,000 and $70,000.
- 3.36% earn more than $70,000.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Assistant?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $77,088
In San Francisco, you can find many tech companies looking for research talent. Working here means you'll be part of innovative projects. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer exciting research opportunities.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $69,067
Atlanta is a hub for research in healthcare and technology. Here, you'll work with top-tier institutions like Emory University. You'll contribute to groundbreaking studies and projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $57,858
Los Angeles offers a vibrant research environment with a focus on entertainment and technology. Companies like Disney and Sony provide unique research opportunities. You'll be part of creative and innovative projects.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $57,171
Dayton is known for its research in aerospace and engineering. Working here means you'll be part of cutting-edge projects. Companies like General Motors and Boeing offer exciting research roles.
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Madison, WI
Average Salary: $56,467
Madison is a center for research in biotechnology and education. You'll work with institutions like the University of Wisconsin. Your research will contribute to advancements in healthcare and education.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $55,974
Seattle offers a dynamic research environment with a focus on technology and healthcare. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide innovative research opportunities. You'll be part of exciting and impactful projects.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $54,401
Albany is a hub for research in government and education. Working here means you'll be part of important projects. Institutions like the State University of New York offer valuable research roles.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $54,135
Boston is known for its research in healthcare and education. You'll work with prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT. Your research will contribute to significant advancements in various fields.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $54,135
Las Vegas offers a unique research environment with a focus on hospitality and entertainment. Working here means you'll be part of innovative projects. Companies like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment offer exciting research opportunities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $53,981
Houston is a center for research in energy and healthcare. You'll work with top companies like ExxonMobil and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Your research will contribute to important advancements in these fields.
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What are the best companies a Research Assistant can work for?

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Stanford University
Average Salary: $69,509
Stanford University offers Research Assistant positions in various departments. The university is located in Stanford, California, and has research centers around the world. Research Assistants here work on cutting-edge projects and have access to top-notch resources.
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Leidos
Average Salary: $67,691
Leidos provides Research Assistant roles in multiple locations, including Virginia, Colorado, and Texas. The company focuses on science, technology, and engineering. Research Assistants here contribute to national security and health projects.
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IQVIA
Average Salary: $62,668
IQVIA has Research Assistant positions in many cities across the U.S. and globally. The company specializes in healthcare data and technology. Research Assistants work on projects that improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.
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UCLA Health
Average Salary: $62,602
UCLA Health offers Research Assistant jobs in Los Angeles, California. The institution is part of the University of California system. Research Assistants here engage in groundbreaking medical research and clinical trials.
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New York University
Average Salary: $60,675
New York University provides Research Assistant positions in New York City. The university is known for its academic excellence. Research Assistants here work on diverse projects, from social sciences to engineering.
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Columbia University
Average Salary: $57,691
Columbia University offers Research Assistant roles in New York City. The university is renowned for its research and education. Research Assistants here contribute to innovative projects across various fields.
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UC San Diego Health
Average Salary: $57,675
UC San Diego Health provides Research Assistant positions in San Diego, California. The institution is part of the University of California system. Research Assistants here work on cutting-edge medical research and clinical studies.
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University of Kansas Medical Center
Average Salary: $55,510
The University of Kansas Medical Center offers Research Assistant jobs in Kansas City, Kansas. The center is dedicated to medical education and research. Research Assistants here engage in projects that improve healthcare and patient care.
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University of Hawaii system
Average Salary: $54,730
The University of Hawaii system provides Research Assistant positions in Honolulu, Hawaii. The university is known for its research in marine biology and Pacific studies. Research Assistants here work on projects that impact the local community and beyond.
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University of Washington
Average Salary: $54,025
The University of Washington offers Research Assistant roles in Seattle, Washington. The university is recognized for its research in various fields. Research Assistants here contribute to projects that advance knowledge and innovation.
How to earn more as a Research Assistant?
A Research Assistant can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can enhance their value and potentially earn more. Building a strong skill set, gaining relevant experience, and networking effectively are crucial steps. Each of these factors plays a role in opening up higher-paying opportunities.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Research Assistant:
- Skill Development: Invest time in learning new skills. This could include advanced data analysis, programming, or specialized research techniques. The more skills you have, the more valuable you become.
- Experience: Seek out diverse research projects. Experience in different fields can make you more versatile and attractive to employers. Each project adds to your knowledge and expertise.
- Networking: Build connections with professionals in your field. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with peers on LinkedIn. Networking can lead to new job opportunities and higher-paying positions.
- Certifications: Consider earning certifications related to your research area. Certifications can validate your skills and make you stand out to potential employers. They often require additional study and can lead to better job offers.
- Seeking Higher Education: Pursue advanced degrees or specialized training. A master's degree or a Ph.D. can significantly increase your earning potential. Higher education often leads to more complex and higher-paying research roles.