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11 Research Assistant Resume Examples...

11 Research Assistant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

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INDUSTRY STATS

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Research Assistant positions are at a 7% growth rate, which is as fast as average. With that said, there are currently 87,600 jobs in the market right now. The total number of jobs is expected to increase by 5,900 to 93,500 in the period of 2020-30.

What’s more, the median annual wage for the Research Assistant jobs was $46,340 in May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $30,440, and the highest 10% more than $74,600.

Our conclusion? The Research Assistant job market is wide open for candidates.

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Top research assistant sections that make the best resume

  • Header
  • Professional summary
  • Experience (with numbers and results)
  • Relevant skills
  • Education
  • Certifications

Writing a job-winning experience section: Research Assistant resume edition

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Research assistant resume experience section: dos and don'ts
  • List 4-6 bullet points per position;
  • Include only relevant job experience;
  • Make sure to highlight your strongest skills by focusing on the challenges you’ve faced and the results you’ve achieved;
  • Don’t use buzzwords that carry no meaning;
  • Don’t share confidential information about your previous employers.

If you prefer to be led by example, check out some great Research Assistant resume experience section snippets below!

Work Experience
Student Research Assistant
Zeal Wheels
2015-2017
  • Testing and designing the implementation of Argon, an open-standards augmented reality web browser.
  • Created ways to incorporate augmented reality into a 2D brochure to create a better user experience.
  • Modeled interactive 3D computer graphics in WebGL with the three.js library.
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Hermiston LLC
2021-2022
  • Acquired strong theoretical understanding of array sensors fixed/mobile,
  • Worked in wireless communication research (e.g., MIMO, information theory, OFDM, etc.),
  • Developed state-of-the-art array processing algorithms.
Work Experience
Research Assistant Trainee
Altenwerth Group
2017-2020
  • Research assistant at the MeCETES (Mediating Cultural Encounters through European Screens) project. The aim of the project was to analyse the enabling factors for better circulation of European films.
  • Researching viewership of non-national European films in the UK through the creation of a database containing figures on budget, team, release, box office, viewers' and critics' appraisal. The database contained over 300 titles.
  • Desk research on Netflix and other VoD platforms in Europe in tearms of strategies, operation, customers, potential effect on the business and viewers' habits.
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Erudite
2016-2017
  • Assisted staff in the evaluation of research projects, including literature reviews, surveys, focus groups and analysis
  • Represented the organization as translator at the "Turkey African CSO's Forum" held in Istanbul
  • Assisted with coordination of committee meetings and staffing corporate member events
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Innovation Arch
2012-2018
  • During the project I Wrote proposals on the key areas of the studies I was to carry out i) Water problems affecting the Aimi Ma Kilungu Ranch ii) Land Degradation in the Aimi Ma Kilungu Ranch
  • I carried out research on the two areas of on the ranch and wrote reports showing the current state of the ranch environment and recommendations.
  • I assisted in planning and organizing of workshops for stakeholders in the affected communities.
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Cogent Data
2009-2014
  • Assist the professor and doctoral candidates with academic research sponsored by DBT and DST with research projects and discuss the assignments with the supervisor.
  • Supervise all the undergraduate students with their assigned projects.
  • Prepare literature review, articles, reports and presentations and perform other duties as assigned by the professor.
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Erudite
2009-2014
  • Designed a common source cascode configuration LNA.
  • Successfully simulated it on Cadence Virtuoso.
  • LNA with a center frequency at 5.8 GHz and a noise figure of 2.5 dB and a gain of 21 dB, was achieved.
Work Experience
Market Research Assistant
Strat Security
2015-2017
  • Communicating with clients to understand and document the business objectives;
  • Formulating analysis plans and acquiring client sign-off;
  • Assisting in the development of questionnaires and moderator guides to ensure the necessary data is captured;
  • Data analyses using traditional and advanced methods;
  • Authoring reports containing actionable recommendations;
  • Making presentations—answering questions and instilling confidence.
Work Experience
Student Development and Reading Experience and Development (RED) Award Officer (2 yrs) Administrative Officer (0.8FTE) & Research Assistant (0.2 FTE) (1 yr)
DuBuque, Conroy and Durgan
2016-2017
  • Began working for the University delivering administrative support.
  • Progressed onto gaining a successful bid to implement a university-wide employability development Award.
  • Oversaw the strategic direction and delivery of the Award, recruiting over 1,060 students to complete the Award within the first two years.
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Altenwerth Group
2016-2020
  • Management of research project, geological database, and metallogenic models;
  • Management, integration, and interpretation of geological and geochemical data;
  • Mineral chemistry analysis of silicates by using Electronic Microscopy;
  • Geological Mapping, core logging, and data acquisition;
  • Petrography of host rocks, altered and ore assemblages, detailed petrography by using SEM-EDS;
  • Presentation of project results in conferences and Technical Report
Work Experience
Research Assistant Grade III
Innovation Arch
2011-2018
  • Primary research focusing on animal modeling for the developing of novel PET probes for the evaluation of indeterminate pulmonary nodules.
  • Protocol writing for both VA and NIH funded research.
  • Mouse model generation and small animal surgeries for targeted therapy drug development.
Work Experience
Research Assistant / Graduate Assistant
DuBuque, Conroy and Durgan
2011-2018
  • Molecular imaging modalities including PET (Positron emission tomography) and micro-CT
  • Evaluation of response to new targeted therapeutic agents.
  • High throughput assay development
Work Experience
Research Assistant
Admire Arts
2021-2022
  • Project 1 : Currently assisting in creating an exhaustive compilation of research done since 1990, in the area of urban poverty in Maharashtra
  • Project 2 : Wrote an extensive 10,000 word review of the changing definitions (official and scholarly) of Urban Poverty in India since 1990
  • Project 3 : Assisted in primary data collection for an International Labour Oraganisation (ILO) funded project titled ‘Employers of Domestic Workers’
  • Project 4 : Assisted in secondary data collection and analysis for a United Nations Women (UNW) funded project titled ‘Patriarchy and Employment in an Urban Macroeconomic Setting (Mumbai)’. A state-wise comparison was done using a host of social and economic indicators to examine empowerment of women vis-a-vis general population, over a span of two decades
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PRO TIP

Make sure to relate your experience to your job description, but never lie. That’s not tolerated and will show up in the face-to-face interview later on.

Action verbs for your research assistant resume

The Enhancv team went through thousands of Research Assistant resumes that have helped people get hired at their dream companies. Here are some of the best power words used by these top applicants:

An impressive skills section for your research assistant resume

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Writing a skills section that stands out:
  • Check the job advert for keywords that you can use: this will help you pass ATS;
  • Focus on relevant and valuable skills that will support your application;
  • Make sure to include both hard and technical skills, leaving soft skills for other sections of your Research Assistant resume;
  • Don’t list skills you don’t have.
Top skills for your research assistant resume
HARD SKILLS

Microsoft Office Tools

aryan

Python

Flask

JavaScript

NodeJs

AngularJS

SOFT SKILLS

Critical thinking

Problem Solving

Creativity

Innovation

Organisation

Attention to details

Caution

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PRO TIP

Avoid getting sidetracked by Applicant tracking software by including a tech skills' section matching the job description and your own qualifications.

what to write in your resume header
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Checklist for your research assistant resume header
  • Your name and surname in a legible and larger resume font
  • The job title you’re applying for or your current job title as a subheading to your name
  • Link to your portfolio or online profile, such as LinkedIn
  • Address (City and State for the US; just your city for rest of the world)
  • Email address
  • Headshot (required or welcomed in the EU; not required and sometimes frowned upon in the US)

Stick to popular email providers such as Gmail or Outlook. And use these professional formats to create your username:

  • first.last@gmail.com
  • last.first@gmail.com
  • firstlast@gmail.com
  • f.last@gmail.com
  • first.l@gmail.com
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PRO TIP

Include a link to your portfolio in your Research Assistant resume header. Most companies will require that you include one in your resume, and even if they don’t, it’s an excellent opportunity to directly show them your proudest projects.

The research assistant resume summary: tips and tricks

what to write in your resume summary
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Making a strong first impression.
  • Keep your summary section short and easy to read; avoid long sentences;
  • Highlight your total years of experience in the field;
  • Mention 1-2 of your biggest achievements and strengths;
  • Add a couple of keywords from the job advert.
resume Summary Formula icon
Resume summary formula:
Resume Summary Formula: [Adjective] [job title] with [number] years of experience in [industry], a proven ability to [relevant, measurable skills], and a strong background in [relevant context of your work experience] seeks a position as [the job title you’re applying for].
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PRO TIP

You’re not going to get hired simply because of a good summary or objective. However, your recruiter can bump you up in front of similarly experienced candidates who didn’t demonstrate such passion and drive.

Research assistant resume: a strong education section

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What to Include in Your Education Section:
  • Your highest education degree (incl. major, duration, name of institution);
  • A bit more about the certifications you’ve got (if they are relevant to what you’re applying for);
  • Some extracurricular activities that have helped you develop and strengthen your skills;
  • If you’re an entry-level applicant: Relevant courses and projects.
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Top certifications for your research assistant resume
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Research Methodology: Complete Research Project Blueprint

Research Methodology From A-Z. A Step-by-Step Guide Through Research Design, Data Collection, Analysis, & Interpretation

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How to Write a Successful Research Paper

Complete Research Paper Writing Blueprint With Instructions And Templates For Every Section. Master Academic Writing

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Research Methods For Business Students

A-Z guide to writing a rockstar Research Paper with a bulletproof Research Methodology!

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Research Methodology

Academic Research | Business Research | Thesis & Dissertation Report | Research Paper / Journal

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How to Write an Effective Research Paper

Learn how to write award-winning research papers with easy steps. Includes examples and a research paper template.

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PRO TIP

There are dozens of certifications that you can claim as a Research Assistant. But, some are more effective than others. That’s why you mustn’t include every certificate other applicants might have. Try instead to earn and list a few of the difficult ones.

Research assistant resume: How to choose the right format

The content of your resume is necessary for showcasing your expertise, skills, and education. Great formatting, on the other hand, is essential for highlighting your attention to detail, creativity, and ability to stand out.

There are three basic resume formats to choose from:

Which one of these you choose depends on a couple of things, but most importantly: the industry and your level of experience.

The reverse-chronological resume format, for example, is great if you’re a Research Assistant with many years of experience and no career gaps. It doesn’t really matter if your company of choice is a multinational corporation or an early-stage startup – this resume format is considered to be a safe bet.

If you’re someone with little or no experience, however, we advise you to go for a functional skills-based resume format. It focuses on skills, competencies, and education, rather than experience. This makes it great for entry-level applicants, career changers, and graduate students.

And if you’re tired of traditional formats and want to go over the top when it comes to your application, the combination or hybrid resume format is here to help. Here, you can focus on both your experience and your skills, there’s even space for you to highlight your most spectacular personality traits. If you want to give a modern feel to your Research Assistant resume, this resume format is just what you need. Add a ‘my life philosophy’ section for additional bonus points!

Looking for ways to perfect your Research Assistant resume layout and style?

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PRO TIP

Test your draft Research Assistant resume by sending it out to peers and mentors in your circles. Ask them to review it as if they are hiring you for a project and implement the feedback afterwards.

Your research assistant resume: Other sections to include

Tired of resumes that focus only on your professional side? Want to show you’re an actual human being with a real personality that goes beyond your work experience? Then add some other sections to your Research Assistant resume!

Depending on the industry, company, and position, you can go for a more creative or less creative approach. Choose 1-2 of the following:

Making your research assistant resume shine

In a pile of boring black and white resumes, a creative Research Assistant application feels like a breath of fresh air. And trust us, recruiters love this.

There are two ways to add a splash of creativity to your resume. You can either go for a creative layout (bright colors, modern fonts, etc.) or add some creative sections (e.g. ‘what my typical day looks like’).

It’s up to you! Just make sure to keep the position, company, and industry in mind. Otherwise, you risk going over the top. And that’s not always a good idea.

day of my life on resume   Enhancv resume section

What makes a great research assistant resume: key takeaways

  • Choose a resume layout that sends the right message across and fits your current career situation;
  • Create a resume header that shows your desired job title, and easy to find contact numbers;
  • Be specific about your experience, accomplishments and future goals in your summary;
  • Feature detailed metrics and specific examples that show the impact you made in your previous roles when describing your experience;
  • List soft skills backed by examples;
  • Add all of your technical skills and certifications that you have and match the job description;
  • Show off a dash of personality in your resume that will demonstrate your culture fit and the right mix of hard and soft skills.

Research Assistant resume examples

Explore additional research assistant resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

By Experience

Entry-Level Research Assistant

Entry-Level Research Assistant positions are usually gained from internships, previous academic work, or laboratory experience. If you're applying for this role, add to your resume that you know your way around a lab and are trained in basic procedures like using a microscope or centrifuge. Bring attention to any relevant research or coursework you have done, especially specific projects related to your field. If you've collected data, conducted analysis, or ensured quality in an educational setting, mention it. Highlight your knack for organizing and documenting data, as this skill will be central to your daily tasks. Instead of simply listing your skills, tie them to the positive outcomes you've achieved in your course projects or internships, such as increased efficiency or demonstrated problem-solving skills.

By Role

Laboratory Research Assistant

In your resume for a Laboratory Research Assistant position, highlight your abilities in operating complex lab equipment. Include any lab projects you've worked on or techniques you're proficient in, such as chemical analysis, microscopy, or bio-sample preparation. Specify the projects you've worked on, detailing the methods you used. Also, illustrate how your skills led to successful results or how your data was utilized by others.

Clinical Research Assistant

Clinical Research Assistants often come from medical or health-related fields, bringing a mix of medical expertise, lab skills, and patient interaction. When applying, highlight any experience you have with clinical trials, whether from past roles or classes. Also, mention your ability to interact with patients as gathering data directly from them is often a part of the role. Include any relevant courses or certificates, like Good Clinical Practices, ethics training, or bio-statistics. Finally, draw attention to how your clinical research work has made a difference in patients' lives and care.

Undergraduate Research Assistant

As an Undergraduate Research Assistant, you kickstart future academic degrees and careers. Your resume should stress your academic understanding apt for the field you intend to work in. Include instances when you were part of research projects despite them not being strictly related to the job. It's important to show you're well-versed in research methods, even if you only got to know them in class. Also, don't forget to point out your accomplishments within these roles -- any findings that got published or influenced a bigger project are worth mentioning.

Graduate Research Assistant

As a Graduate Research Assistant, you aim to specialize in a field, relying on original research and comprehensive methodologies. Stand out by showcasing your proficiency with specialized equipment or methods. Highlight your original research or dissertation to show your capabilities. Remember to feature any presentations or talks done in your field. This is your opportunity to illustrate how your work is advancing your discipline.

Postdoctoral Research Assistant

The Postdoctoral Research Assistant is a seasoned researcher seeking to expand their knowledge before transitioning to a tenured role. Don't forget to include your up-to-date publication list on your resume, along with any innovative research you've conducted, especially any expertise in specialized equipment or procedures. Also, detail any significant collaborations with other researchers as this showcases your engagement within the academic community and teamwork abilities. The overall impact of your work, including any groundbreaking methods or impactful findings should also be underlined as your research at this stage carries wider implications.

Research Associate

Rooted in academic and corporate environments, the Research Associate role depends heavily on research trends and methods. Apply for Research Associate jobs successfully with these pointers: Highlight any experience with both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies as they are crucial in the field. Documented work in projects involving data collection, data analysis, report writing should be underscored. Emphasize your fluency with research software like SPSS, SAS or R and your analytical ability. Showcase how your skills contributed to the results and outcomes of your previous projects, using phrases like 'enhanced data accuracy by...' or 'optimized data collection through...'. Follow a 'skill-action-result' pattern for optimum results.
View Research Associate Resume

Research Director

The Research Director role stems from years of experience in the research field. When applying for Research Director positions, consider these suggestions: Highlight your track records in developing and implementing research strategies. Independence in managing a team and mentoring junior researchers should be emphasized. Include your expertise in applying for and managing research grants. Have a section devoted to your leadership skills and detail how they improved the efficiency of your past projects. Use a 'Skill-Action-Result' format, with phrases such as 'secured funding through…', 'led a team that led to…', or 'delivered research insights via…'.
View Research Director Resume

Research Manager

A Research Manager position is heavily influenced by proficiency in research processes and team management. To successfully apply for Research Manager roles, these tips should be helpful: The ability to design research projects and strategies should be at the top of your resume. Emphasize your competence in managing a team and coordinating research efforts. Highlight familiarity with both qualitative and quantitative research practices. Don’t just list your management abilities. Illustrate how they bolstered your team's work and brought significant results, for example, 'improved project execution by implementing…', 'streamlined data analysis through…'. Follow the 'skill-action-results' approach.
View Research Manager Resume

Researcher

Becoming a successful Researcher revolves around the ability to generate insightful and authentic data. When applying for the Researcher roles, keep these suggestions in mind: Emphasize any hands-on experience in conducting both field and desk research. Proficiency with research data analysis tools like Python, Tableau, Excel, NVivo is a big plus. Being comfortable with both qualitative and quantitative research is significant. Don't just list your analytical skills. Explain how these skills have significantly impacted research outcomes in phrases such as 'identified key insights by…' or 'aided in decision making through…'. Adhere to the 'skill-action-results' format for maximum impact.
View Researcher Resume
research assistant resume example

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