Skip to Main Content

Biotechnology Research Assistants

Work Environment

Most research assistants work indoors in clean, climate-controlled, pleasant facilities. Many spend most of their time at the business that employs them, checking facts over the phone, finding data on the Internet or in computer databases, searching the company’s records, writing up reports, or conducting laboratory research. Others spend a great deal of time in science and medical libraries, government offices, and archives. In short, research assistants go wherever they can to obtain the information requested.

Full-time research assistants work 35 to 40 hours a week. They may have to work overtime or on weekends right before deadlines or when involved in special projects. Some research assistants, especially those who work for smaller organizations or for professors or private employers, work only part time. They may work as little as 10 hours a week. These research assistants are usually graduate students or freelancers who have a second job in a related field.

Related Professions
Featured Companies