Research assistants are hired by principal researchers (also known as principal investigators, or project directors) to assist with conducting research projects in many different fields by performing various duties related to a study. Research assistants are typically well versed in the subject area of the project they work on. Research assistants are mostly found in the social science or laboratory setting. These research assistants are often undergraduates looking to get credit for assisting a professor in their research, and will perform experiments under their supervision. However, some research assistants might work for novel writers, newspaper reporters and other professions that might need someone to track down information.

Tasks:

1. Assist with data collection
2. Use computer programs to record and organize data, record research procedures and results
3. Assist with data analysis
4. Disseminate results of research activities
5. Contribute ideas relating to improving research processes
6. Work with other research team members and principle investigator
7. Prepare reports of completed projects for publication in industry journals, or for agency funding or requesting project
8. May be responsible for preparing grant proposals and other documents
9. Manage project e-mails and other communications
10. Prepare articles and presentations relating to project

Key skills for research assistant:

• Attention to Detail
• Critical Thinking
• Technical Skills
• Willingness to learn
• Methodical approach to work activities
• Punctuality and good organizational skills

Average salary (2013):

The United Kingdom: £20,500 per year
The United States of America: $41,430 per year
Australia: AU$52,388 per year

Qualifications and training required:

The educational requirements for becoming a research assistant may vary by field of employment, and by specific employer. Research assistants that work in academia are likely students that have already earned a bachelor’s degree in an area that closely relates to their field of work, and are in the process of earning a graduate degree in that field. To become a research assistant in the business world you typically need bachelor's degree related to your field of employment.
Although you typically need an education in a related field to become a research assistant, there are exceptions. Some employers both in the world of academia and the business world will occasionally hire outside research assistant candidates with little or no experience to perform simple tasks, such data entry and filing.