Research Assistant

Hastings Center, Inc.; Washington; Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & dental insurance

Mental health support

403(b) with company match

Tuition reimbursement

Commuter benefits

Job summary

The Undergraduate Student Researcher at Howard University supports ongoing research activities within the laboratory or research program by assisting with data collection, analysis, and general project coordination.

This role provides hands-on exposure to scientific inquiry, fosters critical thinking, and contributes to advancing research objectives under the guidance of faculty, principal investigators, or senior research staff.

Qualifications

• Enrolled as an undergraduate student in a relevant field.
• GPA 3.0+ preferred.
• Basic knowledge of scientific methods and research principles.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Commit to 10–20 hours per week.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and execution of research experiments, surveys, or data collection protocols.
• Collect, record, and maintain accurate research data per procedures.
• Perform basic laboratory techniques or computational tasks as appropriate.
• Conduct literature reviews and summarize findings to support research objectives.
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and safety compliance.
• Support preparation of research reports, presentations, abstracts, or manuscripts.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and discussions.
• Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines including IRB, HIPAA, and biosafety.
• Collaborate effectively with team members and contribute to learning environment.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Teamwork

Time management

Adaptability

Ethical integrity

Scientific methods

Strong organizational skills

Education

Undergraduate student

Tools

None

Job description

## Research AssistantApplylocations: Seeley G. Mudd Building (College of Medicine)time type: Full timeposted on: Posted 30+ Days Agojob requisition id: JR108102The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.Here is what we offer: * ***Health & Wellness:*** Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support* ***Work-Life Balance:*** PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements* ***Financial Wellness:*** Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match* ***Professional Development:*** Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths* ***Additional Perks:*** Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture**Join Howard University and thrive with us!** https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness**JOB PURPOSE:**The Undergraduate Student Researcher supports ongoing research activities within the laboratory or research program by assisting with data collection, analysis, and general project coordination. This role provides hands-on exposure to scientific inquiry, fosters critical thinking, and contributes to advancing research objectives under the guidance of faculty, principal investigators, or senior research staff. The position is designed to integrate academic learning with practical research experience, preparing students for graduate study or careers in research, healthcare, or related fields.**SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:**Involves no responsibility or authority for the direction of others.**NATURE AND SCOPE:**The Undergraduate Student Researcher works under direct supervision and mentorship of a Principal Investigator (PI), faculty member, or designated research staff. The role involves participation in defined components of research projects, including laboratory experiments, data management, literature review, and administrative support. Responsibilities are typically structured, with increasing independence based on demonstrated competency. The position may span basic science, clinical, translational, or population-based research environments and requires adherence to institutional policies, including ethical and regulatory standards.**PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:*** Assist in the design and execution of research experiments, surveys, or data collection protocols* Collect, record, and maintain accurate research data in accordance with established procedures* Perform basic laboratory techniques (e.g., pipetting, sample preparation, reagent handling) or computational tasks (e.g., data entry, coding, statistical analysis) as appropriate* Conduct literature reviews and summarize findings to support research objectives* Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and compliance with safety standards* Support preparation of research reports, presentations, abstracts, or manuscripts* Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and research discussions* Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines, including IRB, HIPAA, and biosafety regulations where applicable* Collaborate effectively with research team members and contribute to a positive learning environment**CORE COMPETENCIES:*** Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret data, identify patterns, and support problem-solving* Attention to Detail: Maintains accuracy in data collection, documentation, and experimental procedures* Communication Skills: Demonstrates clear written and verbal communication in academic settings* Teamwork and Collaboration: Works effectively within multidisciplinary research teams* Time Management: Balances academic responsibilities with research commitments and meets deadlines* Adaptability: Learns new techniques and adjusts to evolving research needs* Ethical Integrity: Demonstrates understanding of research ethics and confidentiality**MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:*** Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student (freshman–senior level) in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Public Health, Computer Science, or related discipline)* Minimum GPA of 3.0 (or institutional equivalent), preferred* Basic knowledge of scientific methods and research principles* Strong organizational and communication skills* Ability to commit a minimum number of hours per week (e.g., 10–20 hours) as required by the research program* Prior laboratory or research experience is preferred but not required**Compliance Salary Range Disclosure**$20 per hour### About UsHoward University is a comprehensive, research-oriented, historically Black private university providing an educational experience of exceptional quality to students of high academic potential with particular emphasis upon the provision of educational opportunities to promising Black students. Further, the University is dedicated to attracting and sustaining a cadre of faculty who are, through their teaching and research, committed to the development of distinguished and compassionate graduates and to the quest for solutions to human and social problems in the United States and throughout the world.Howard University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex,sexual orientation,gender or gender identity, marital status, religion, disability or protected veterans status. Veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities or veterans status, Equal Employment Opportunity and Title IX should be directed to the Office of Employee Relations and Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-806-1280.**This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not be construed as a contract for employment.**