Science Research Assistant Jobs

Individuals often begin a career in science as research assistants, working under a tenured professional in their field, learning the ropes and gaining experience.

Chemist Research Assistant

Chemists may hire a research assistant to help search for new chemicals in nature; conduct experiments and recording data to analyze and compare to past or similar studies; or collectsamples. A bachelor's degree is required, as are strong math and science skills and the ability to work independently for long hours. Beginning salaries as of July 2009 for graduates with a bachelor's degree in chemistry averaged $39,897, according to a report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers in the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Anthropologist research assistant

Anthropologists, considered social scientists, research data and information on the origin, development and behavior of humans in different societies and time periods. They examine languages, new and past archaeological remains and other relevant data. Some anthropologists focus solely on the present social and cultural human concerns, including overpopulation and poverty. Anthropologists may hire research assistants to help on fact finding missions or to research data and historical facts, so they can focus on other aspects, such as interviewing individuals). Most social scientists, including anthropologist, have among the highest educational attainment of all occupations, with most positions requiring a master's or Ph.D, however, there are entry level positions (such as a research assistant) available to those with a bachelor's degree only. The median wage for an actual anthropologist, according to the Bureau of Labor Statics, as of May 2008 was $53,910. In addition, as of March 2009, the Federal Government's average salary for anthropologists was a reported $88,302.

Zoo Scientist research assistant

Zoo scientists spend their careers researching animals. Geneticists in zoos and aquariums use DNA samples to study hereditary traits shared among animals and the relationships between animals. Other research careers focus solely on the biology of animals. These scientists and experts need assistants to help gather data, care for the animals, coordinate travel schedules, draft reports, collect and assemble the data of experiments and studies, and apply for grants. Research assistants may have only a bachelor's degree while the scientists they are working under typically have advanced degrees in zoology, biology, microbiology, ecology or wildlife management.Sources:

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Chemist
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Social Scientists, other
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Wild Jobs with Wildlife