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If you’ve Googled “job description template for research assistant,” you’ve probably come across dozens of posts. But here’s the problem: most of them aren’t actually helpful. They give you a wall of bullet points, throw in some corporate buzzwords, and call it a day.
But a generic post like that won’t attract top-tier candidates—especially not in a competitive field like research.
Great research assistants are organized, curious, and detail-oriented. But they’re also humans—and your job post should speak to them like one. The best candidates don’t want a dry checklist. They want to know what they’re signing up for, who they’ll work with, and why it matters.
If your job post reads like a formality, it’s going to get ignored.
So before we dive into the templates, here’s your competitive edge: learn how to write a job description that connects—not just checks boxes.
👉 If you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/., where we break down exactly why most job ads fail—and how to fix yours.
Ready to attract serious talent? Let’s start by defining what a research assistant actually does.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard. If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What A Research Assistant Actually Does
So, what does a research assistant actually do?
In simple terms, a research assistant helps gather, organize, and analyze information for projects. That could mean running lab experiments, digging through academic papers, transcribing interviews, or compiling data into spreadsheets—depending on the field.
But here’s what many job descriptions forget: this role isn’t just about checking tasks off a list.
A great research assistant is curious by nature. They know how to ask the right questions, spot patterns, and support the lead researcher without needing constant direction. They’re also organized, detail-obsessed, and know how to juggle deadlines without losing focus.
And depending on your company or institution, they may be helping publish studies, build reports, or support decisions that directly impact business, policy, or public understanding.
In short: this is a behind-the-scenes role that makes real breakthroughs possible.
Whether you’re in healthcare, education, marketing, or product development, a strong research assistant helps turn loose ideas into sharp insights.
Two Great Research Assistant Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Research Assistant Job Description (Experienced Candidates)
📌 Job Title: Research Assistant for Product Innovation Team (Full-Time, Remote-Friendly)
💼 Location: Austin, TX or Remote (U.S. only)
💰 Salary: $50,000–$62,000/year + benefits
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Want to know who you’ll be working with? Check out this short Loom video from our lead researcher where she shares what the team does, how the role fits in, and what it’s like to work here.
Who We Are
At Clearpath Labs, we help companies turn customer behavior into actionable product insights. Our research team partners with Fortune 500 brands to uncover what users really want—and why.
We’re now hiring a Research Assistant to support our Product Innovation team with data collection, organization, and early-stage analysis.
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll work closely with UX researchers and data analysts to:
- Organize and maintain research files and data
- Transcribe, code, and summarize user interviews
- Conduct secondary research (competitor audits, market reviews)
- Prepare visual summaries and briefs for internal teams
- Help ensure ethical standards and accuracy in all documentation
What We’re Looking For
- 1–2 years’ experience in a research support role (qualitative or quantitative)
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Familiarity with tools like Notion, Dovetail, or Airtable
- Excellent written communication
- A self-starter mindset—you spot gaps and fill them
Why You’ll Love Working Here
We believe in thoughtful work, flexible schedules, and kind teams. You’ll get:
- Remote flexibility (with quarterly team meetups)
- Healthcare, dental, and vision benefits
- Learning stipend ($1,000/year)
- Room to grow—we promote from within
How We Hire
We respect your time. Every application is reviewed, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a short, skills-based evaluation on WorkScreen.io. It’s a fair, fast, and friendly way for us to learn about you beyond your résumé. Apply here [insert application link]
✅ Option 2: Research Assistant Job Description (Entry-Level / Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Junior Research Assistant – Entry-Level Role with Training Provided
💼 Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid or Remote U.S.)
💰 Salary: $42,000–$48,000/year
🎥 Meet the Team Before You Apply
We believe you should know who you’ll work with before hitting “Apply.” Here’s a quick Loom from our team lead explaining the role, our culture, and how you’ll grow with us.
Who We Are
At InsightBridge, we help startups make smarter decisions by backing their intuition with data. Our team works across industries—education, fintech, health—to run lean, fast, and human-centered research.
We’re looking for a Junior Research Assistant to help us with background research, note-taking, and organizing insights. No experience? That’s okay. If you’re curious, dependable, and hungry to learn—we’ll train you.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Take notes during user interviews and team calls
- Help organize research data and folders
- Do light desk research and competitor scans
- Support in creating presentation decks and summaries
We’re Looking For Someone Who Is:
- A strong communicator (especially in writing)
- Organized, reliable, and detail-oriented
- Curious and eager to learn fast
- Comfortable with Google Workspace, Zoom, and basic Excel
Experience in research is a bonus, but not required. We value attitude, effort, and coachability more than your résumé.
What You’ll Get
- Paid training and mentorship
- Weekly learning sessions with the lead researcher
- Healthcare, vision, and dental benefits
- Career growth opportunities into research, UX, or product strategy
Our Hiring Process
We use WorkScreen.io to help ensure fairness and avoid hiring bias. You’ll complete a short task designed to show us how you think—not just what’s on paper. After that, selected candidates will have a one-on-one interview with our team. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way. Apply here [insert application link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Why These Research Assistant Job Posts Work
Let’s break down why both job descriptions are effective—and how they do the heavy lifting to attract strong candidates:
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific
Instead of vague labels like “Research Assistant” or “Assistant,” each post specifies the team, level, and context:
- “Research Assistant for Product Innovation Team”
- “Junior Research Assistant – Entry-Level Role with Training Provided”
These titles tell candidates exactly what the job is, who it’s for, and whether they’re a good fit—without making them guess. This instantly boosts relevance and drives more targeted applications.
✅ 2. The Video Humanizes the Job
Adding a Loom video from the hiring manager or team lead makes a huge difference. It adds authenticity, builds trust, and helps the candidate visualize the people they’d be working with.
It says, “We’re real people—not just a job board post.”
✅ 3. The Introduction Tells a Story
Rather than diving straight into bullet points, both posts start with a human-centered intro.
They briefly describe the company’s mission, the kind of work being done, and why this role matters.
This draws readers in emotionally—especially mission-driven candidates who want to be part of something meaningful.
✅ 4. Compensation Is Transparent
Both posts clearly state the salary range, removing a major point of friction for job seekers.
Being transparent signals trust, respect, and maturity—all signs of a modern, thoughtful employer.
✅ 5. Culture Is Shown, Not Just Claimed
Instead of saying “we value collaboration,” the posts show it by describing team structure, learning opportunities, and support systems.
This helps candidates self-assess: “Will I feel supported here? Will I grow?”
✅ 6. Entry-Level Post Encourages, Not Discourages
The second job post avoids rigid requirements. It says clearly: “Experience is a bonus, not a must.”
That simple language shift opens the door to diverse, high-potential candidates—including career changers, recent grads, and self-taught learners.
✅ 7. The Hiring Process Is Transparent
Both posts explain exactly what happens after someone applies.
They outline:
- Timeline expectations
- Use of WorkScreen for skills-based screening
- Interview process
This kind of clarity reduces anxiety and sets your company apart from competitors who leave applicants in the dark.
✅ 8. The Tone Is Warm, Honest, and Human
Nothing about these posts feels robotic or “copied from HR.”
They sound like real people talking to real people—and that’s what attracts thoughtful, values-aligned candidates.
Example of a Bad Research Assistant Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Let’s look at what a typical generic post looks like—and why it misses the mark.
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Research Assistant
Location: New York, NY
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary:
We are seeking a research assistant to support our department with various administrative and research tasks. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, capable of working independently, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in the collection and organization of data
- Compile reports and prepare presentations
- Conduct literature reviews
- Perform administrative duties as needed
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in any relevant field
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- 1–2 years of prior research experience preferred
How to Apply:
Submit your résumé and cover letter to research.jobs@example.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🚫 Why This Job Post Fails
1. The Job Title Is Too Generic
Just saying “Research Assistant” gives no clue about the team, purpose, or who it’s for. It could be any job, anywhere. There’s no emotional hook or unique value.
2. No Personality or Story
The introduction feels lifeless. There’s no mission, no human voice, and no connection to what the company is working on. It reads like a checklist, not an invitation.
3. No Salary or Benefits Info
Leaving out compensation makes this post feel outdated—and signals a lack of transparency. It can also deter high-quality applicants who are evaluating multiple offers.
4. Culture Is Completely Missing
There’s zero insight into how the team works, what values the company holds, or what it feels like to be part of the organization. Top candidates want to know who they’re joining—not just what they’ll do.
5. Responsibilities Are Vague
Generic tasks like “compile reports” or “conduct literature reviews” give no sense of what success looks like or how this role makes a difference.
6. The Hiring Process Is Cold
The line “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” comes off as dismissive. It signals that the company sees applicants as numbers, not people.
7. The Call to Action Is Weak
There’s no excitement, no encouragement, and no reason to apply. Just “send your résumé”—a surefire way to lose thoughtful, discerning candidates.
📉 Bottom Line:
This kind of post checks boxes, but it doesn’t inspire. It doesn’t attract curious, driven, or high-quality candidates—because it doesn’t speak to them. It simply exists.
Once you’ve nailed the structure and tone, these small additions can take your job post from good to great. They show thoughtfulness, build trust, and help you stand out in a sea of sameness.
🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Unfortunately, job scams are rising—and serious applicants are rightfully cautious. A simple notice at the end of your post builds instant trust.
Example:
“We take the privacy and safety of every applicant seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking details, or personal financial information during the hiring process. If you see a suspicious message about this job, please contact us directly.”
🌴 2. Mention Leave or Flex Time
Top candidates aren’t just thinking about work—they’re thinking about life balance. Highlighting your time-off policy (even briefly) shows that your company respects rest and recovery.
Example:
“Enjoy up to 15 paid days off per year, plus national holidays. We believe rest fuels focus.”
Or: “We offer two recharge days per quarter—no meetings, no check-ins, just time to reset.”
📚 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
People aren’t just applying for a job—they’re looking for a place to grow. If you invest in learning, mention it.
Example:
“We offer mentorship from senior researchers and access to paid courses. We don’t expect you to know everything—just to be hungry to learn.”
🎥 4. Add a Loom Video from the Team
This one’s a game-changer. Embedding a short Loom or YouTube video (from the hiring manager or team lead) adds a personal touch most job posts lack. It lets candidates see who they’ll be working with—and feel what the team is like.
Tip: Keep it under 2 minutes. Introduce yourself, explain the role in plain English, and say why you’re excited to hire someone.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✉️ 5. Let Applicants Know What to Expect
A small note like “We review every application and aim to respond within 1–2 weeks” goes a long way in creating a respectful candidate experience. It sets expectations and builds confidence that you take the process seriously.
Should You Use AI to Write a Job Description?
AI tools can help you move faster—but if you use them the wrong way, they’ll sabotage your hiring efforts.
Let’s break it down.
⚠️ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
Auto-generating a job description without giving the AI any real input might sound efficient, but it usually results in bland, lifeless posts that:
- Attract the wrong applicants. Generic job posts draw generic job seekers—people who are mass applying, not genuinely interested in your mission or team.
- Miss your company’s voice. Candidates want to feel your culture in the post. AI doesn’t know your values unless you tell it.
- Reflect poorly on your brand. Your job post is often the first impression someone has of your company. If it feels robotic, rushed, or templated—they won’t apply.
In short: don’t let AI write your first impression without guidance.
✅ How to Use AI the Right Way
AI works best when you treat it like a writing partner, not a replacement. Give it clear direction, and you’ll get better, faster results—without sacrificing quality.
Here’s how to do it:
🧠 Start with the raw ingredients:
- What your company does
- What this role is responsible for
- The tone you want (fun, formal, mission-driven, etc.)
- Your culture and values
- The kind of candidate you’re hoping to attract
- Perks, benefits, salary, and hiring process
📝 Then prompt it like this:
“Write a job post for our company, InsightBridge. We’re hiring a Junior Research Assistant to help organize and summarize user interviews, conduct light desk research, and support our research team. Our culture is collaborative and learning-focused, and we’re open to training candidates without prior experience. We offer remote flexibility, mentorship, and paid learning time. Here are a few notes we want to include: [Paste your bullet points]. Please write this in a conversational, welcoming tone.”
Want even better results?
👉 Tell AI to mimic the tone of one of the good job posts you like from earlier in this guide.
✏️ Then, edit it. Polish it. Make it yours.
No matter how good the draft is, your final post should reflect your voice and values.
Remember: AI should help you write better and faster, not remove you from the process entirely.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Description
📌 Job Title: Junior Research Assistant (Remote-Friendly)
💰 Salary: $XX–$XX/year
📍 Location: [Enter Location] (Remote or Hybrid)
🎥 Meet the Team
Before you dive in, check out this short Loom video from our team lead—we’ll introduce ourselves, walk you through the role, and explain why this hire matters.
Who We Are
At [Your Company Name], we help businesses make smarter decisions through data-driven insights. Our research team supports startups, non-profits, and enterprise clients across industries like health, finance, and education.
Now, we’re looking for a Junior Research Assistant to help us run fast, focused research—from organizing notes to summarizing findings and supporting interviews. You don’t need years of experience—we’ll teach you the rest.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Take notes during user interviews
- Organize research data and findings
- Run basic desk research on industry trends
- Help build visual summaries and slide decks
You’re a Great Fit If You:
- Love organizing information and spotting patterns
- Communicate clearly—especially in writing
- Are dependable, curious, and quick to learn
- Can work independently and ask good questions
Why Work Here
We’re a small team that supports each other. You’ll get:
- Paid mentorship & onboarding
- Remote flexibility and async-first communication
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- Learning stipend and growth path into research or strategy
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to make hiring more fair and efficient. Instead of sending a résumé, you’ll complete a short, skill-based evaluation. It helps us understand how you think—and gives everyone a level playing field.
👉 Apply here: [WorkScreen Application Link]
🗂️ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Research Assistant
Location: [Enter Location] (Remote Available)
Salary Range: $XX–$XX/year
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
[Your Company Name] is hiring a Research Assistant to support our research team in conducting studies, analyzing findings, and organizing data for internal and client-facing use. This is a full-time position open to candidates across the U.S., with flexible working hours and mentorship provided.
Key Responsibilities
- Collect and organize qualitative and quantitative data
- Support interview transcription, note-taking, and synthesis
- Conduct desk research and summarize key trends
- Maintain research documentation and ethical compliance
- Assist in preparing presentations and reports
Qualifications
- 1+ year experience in research, data analysis, or a related field (preferred)
- Strong written communication and organizational skills
- Comfortable with Google Workspace and basic research tools
- Familiarity with tools like Airtable, Dovetail, Notion (a plus)
- Eagerness to learn and ability to work independently
Perks & Benefits
- Flexible work schedule (remote or hybrid)
- Health and dental insurance
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- $1,000 annual learning and development budget
- Clear career path into senior research roles
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate applicants based on skill, not just résumés. Please complete our quick skills-based evaluation to apply:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
We review every application and aim to respond within 1–2 weeks.
Next Step — Let WorkScreen Handle the Rest
Once your job post is doing its job—attracting serious candidates—the next challenge is evaluating them quickly, fairly, and confidently.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how it helps:
✅ Spot top talent instantly
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks your applicants using short, role-specific assessments. You’ll see who stands out—without needing to sift through a hundred résumés.
✅ Test for real-world skills, not just buzzwords
WorkScreen makes it easy to run skill tests that reflect what the job actually requires. Whether it’s research organization, writing, or analytical thinking, you’ll see how each applicant performs.
✅ Filter out low-effort applicants
Say goodbye to résumé spammers, AI-generated cover letters, and “one-click apply” noise. WorkScreen helps you focus only on the candidates who genuinely want to work with you—and have the ability to back it up.
✅ Respect candidates’ time while saving yours
You’ll give applicants a smooth, transparent experience—while saving hours on manual screening and guesswork.
🎯 In short? You’ve written a great job post. Now use a smarter hiring tool to make the right hire. 👉 Sign up at WorkScreen.io and start evaluating applicants with confidence.
FAQ
A great research assistant has a mix of technical skills, organizational ability, and soft skills. Here are the most important traits to look for:
- Attention to detail – catching small errors in data or transcripts
- Strong written communication – summarizing findings clearly
- Organization – managing notes, files, and deadlines across projects
- Analytical thinking – spotting trends or key takeaways in raw data
- Tech literacy – comfortable with tools like Google Sheets, Notion, Airtable, or research-specific platforms like Dovetail
- Curiosity – asks great questions and is eager to learn
- Dependability – meets deadlines, follows instructions, and follows through
For entry-level roles, prioritize coachability and curiosity over prior experience—skills can be taught, but mindset is harder to instill.
In the United States, the average salary for a full-time research assistant ranges from $45,000 to $60,000/year, depending on industry, location, and experience.
- Entry-level roles often start at $40,000–$48,000/year
- Experienced or specialized roles can go up to $65,000+
- Academic institutions may offer slightly lower pay but include benefits like tuition support or research credits
(Source: Glassdoor, Indeed, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Not always. While many roles ask for a degree in a related field (like psychology, sociology, marketing, or biology), some roles are open to high-potential candidates without a degree—especially in startups or user research teams. What matters more is the ability to think clearly, stay organized, and support the team effectively.
A research assistant typically supports data collection, transcription, and project organization. They help researchers prepare, document, and manage findings.
A research analyst, on the other hand, usually works at a more strategic level—interpreting data, spotting trends, and turning insights into business recommendations. Many analysts start as research assistants and grow into that role.
