and analyzing scientific data relating to the treatment of specific medical condition.
This post provides detailed information on the medical research assistant job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly carry out, as well as templates employers can use.
It also highlights the major requirements you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the medical research assistant role by most employers.
What Does a Medical Research Assistant Do?
A medical research assistant is a junior practitioner who collects, compiles, reports, and analyzes data of scientific studies by examining subjects related to treatment of specific medical condition.
The medical research assistant job description involves managing clinical researches by generating and reconciling inquiries for investigative processes.
The medical research assistant will also render clinical support for the execution of projects in accordance with standard operating procedures.
He/she will create, maintain, and update study and trial management documents.
As part of experimental measures, the research assistant will collect specimens like blood, stool, urine, and other body fluids for examination. He/she will be looking out for specific signs that are important to the research.
Their role in the medical field also includes conducting tests under special conditions and monitoring research participants closely.
It is the responsibility of the research assistant to ensure that ethical procedures are strictly followed in the course of executing clinical trials.
They are also required to pay attention to empirical knowledge to enhance originality of results and findings when performing clinical tests.
Other duties medical research assistants perform include offering consultancy services and attending to patients suffering from specific medical conditions they are specialized in, giving them counsel and guidance on how to overcome or manage such conditions effectively.
Medical Research Assistant Job Description Example/Sample
The job description of most individuals who work as research assistants in the medical field usually consists of the duties, tasks, and responsibilities highlighted in the following example:
- Create research plan and budget, outlining places, areas, time, and expenses involved in carrying out a particular research, identifying challenges and suggesting ways to tackle them beforehand to avoid hindrances
- Identify relevant potential participants, educate them on research procedures and possible dangers to get them psychologically ready for the project, and to enable them make informed decisions about their participation
- Design tools and models for clinical trials, observing professional standards, and following step by step procedures without cutting corners, to obtain valid results
- Interact with research team members, brainstorming on ideas on research procedures to ensure successful findings
- Maintain research sites in line with regulatory binders, monitoring associate shadow binders
- Ensure that research tools and materials are available even before the commencement of the research, to ensure smooth flow of operations
- Guarantee the safety of team members and participants during procedures by taking effective safety measures and putting machinery in place to handle crises and emergencies that may arise
- Supervise research activities and provide support to team members by sending them reminders of vital information, facilitating communications between members of the team to ensure uniformity in execution of procedures
- Inform relevant authorities of need to carry out procedures in certain areas to avoid issues of trespassing; and obtain legal authorization for the procedure as backing in case of suits arising from research causalities
- Evaluate research’s observation methods for efficiency and make recommendations for improvement to ensure reliability and generalization of results
- Prepare documents for participants’ consent and authorization and ensure they are signed and delivered to the right channels for proper documentation. Also ensure that all research files are properly secured
- Execute diagnostic aspects of medical treatment to ascertain the cause and effect of patients’ health condition as such findings are instrumental to effective treatment
- Keep records of clinical researches in files and computer systems; take note of successful procedures; observe any side affect; and treat research programs with confidentiality
- Comply with procedures for infection control in the clinic to avoid destroying research materials unknowingly
- Enforce preventive maintenance techniques to preserve specimens and tools.
Requirements – Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills – for the Job of Medical Research Assistant
Candidates vying for the post of research assistant in a medical setting need to develop the following skills, knowledge, and abilities to enhance their chances of getting hired as these are what most employers usually look out for when hiring:
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Science, Public Health, or related field
- Master’s degree or advanced coursework in research or laboratory sciences (preferred)
- Previous experience in a research lab, clinical setting, or academic environment (preferred)
- Experience with data collection, specimen handling, or laboratory equipment is a strong plus
- Familiarity with clinical trials or research protocols beneficial
- Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques, such as pipetting, sample preparation, and centrifugation
- Ability to operate lab equipment (microscopes, analyzers, incubators, etc.)
- Understanding of research methodologies, scientific principles, and lab safety standards
- Proficiency in data entry, database management, and scientific recordkeeping
- Experience with statistical software or data analysis tools (SPSS, R, Excel) is a plus
- Familiarity with regulatory guidelines such as HIPAA, FDA, or IRB compliance
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in handling data, samples, and documentation
- Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and follow protocols
- Effective written and verbal communication skills for reporting and collaborating with research teams
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot lab or procedural issues
- Ability to follow complex instructions and adhere to strict protocols
- Teamwork skills for working with scientists, clinicians, and research coordinators
- Ethical and professional conduct, especially when handling sensitive medical information
- Adaptability and willingness to learn new research techniques
- High level of integrity and confidentiality
- Ability to stand for long periods, handle lab materials, and lift up to 20–30 lbs. if needed
- Flexible schedule depending on research demands, including occasional early mornings or evenings
- Valid certifications in lab safety or phlebotomy (preferred but not required)
- Strong understanding of scientific terminology and medical vocabulary
- Compliance with all laboratory and institutional safety policies.
Medical Research Assistant Job Description Templates
Here are medical research assistant job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Medical Research Assistant
Reports To: Principal Investigator (PI) / Research Coordinator / Laboratory Manager
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Institution or Organization Name] is dedicated to advancing medical research and improving patient outcomes through innovative studies and clinical investigations. Our research teams work collaboratively to support scientific discovery, data accuracy, and patient safety in all research activities.
Position Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Medical Research Assistant to support laboratory experiments, clinical studies, and data collection processes. This role assists investigators and clinical staff by preparing specimens, maintaining study documentation, conducting research tasks, and ensuring compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
The ideal candidate has a strong scientific background, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for contributing to medical advancements.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory & Research Support
- Assist researchers with laboratory experiments and clinical research procedures.
- Prepare, label, and manage biological specimens, samples, or reagents.
- Operate laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, microscopes, analyzers, and pipettes.
- Perform basic lab techniques including sample preparation, culturing, and measurements.
Data Collection & Documentation
- Collect, record, and enter research data accurately into databases or electronic systems.
- Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, logs, and study-related documentation.
- Ensure integrity and confidentiality of research data.
- Assist with compiling results, preparing reports, and organizing files for meetings or publications.
Study Coordination & Participant Support
- Assist with participant recruitment, scheduling, and follow-up appointments when required.
- Obtain consent forms, process questionnaires, and help prepare study materials.
- Support safe and ethical handling of patient information in compliance with HIPAA guidelines.
Compliance & Safety
- Follow all research protocols, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and institutional review board (IRB) requirements.
- Adhere to laboratory safety procedures, including use of PPE and proper waste disposal.
- Report deviations, adverse events, or equipment malfunctions promptly.
- Participate in internal audits, quality checks, and regulatory reviews.
Operational & Administrative Support
- Assist with inventory management, ordering supplies, and maintaining a clean work environment.
- Schedule lab activities, maintain equipment, and calibrate instruments as required.
- Coordinate with department staff, clinicians, researchers, and external vendors.
- Support grant applications, literature reviews, or scientific presentations as needed.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong understanding of medical or scientific concepts.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data handling.
- Ability to follow complex research protocols and written instructions.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with research teams and participants.
- Basic laboratory skills and familiarity with lab equipment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, data entry tools, or research software.
- Ability to multitask and manage several projects simultaneously.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Science, Public Health, or related field required.
- Prior experience in a laboratory, clinical research setting, or academic institution preferred.
- Knowledge of research regulations (HIPAA, FDA guidelines, IRB protocols) is a plus.
- Training opportunities available for qualified candidates.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer sponsorship now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Laboratory, clinic, or research facility setting.
- Requires standing, walking, bending, and handling specimens.
- May involve exposure to chemicals, biological samples, or laboratory equipment.
- Occasional lifting of 20–30 lbs. may be required.
- Work hours may vary based on study schedules or research deadlines.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Organization Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any protected category.
Additional Information
- PPE and safety training will be provided.
- Opportunities for advancement into senior research roles or specialized laboratory positions may be available.
- Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their resume and application to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About the Role
We are seeking a detail-oriented Medical Research Assistant to support laboratory and clinical research activities, assist with data collection, and ensure accurate documentation for ongoing studies. This role helps researchers carry out experiments, manage samples, and maintain compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with laboratory procedures and sample preparation
- Operate basic lab equipment (centrifuges, microscopes, pipettes, etc.)
- Collect, record, and enter research data accurately
- Maintain research logs, documentation, and study files
- Support participant recruitment, scheduling, and consent processes
- Follow research protocols, IRB requirements, and safety procedures
- Help manage inventory, supplies, and equipment maintenance
- Communicate with research staff and assist with administrative tasks
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Medical Science, or related field
- Experience in a research or laboratory setting preferred
- Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills
- Basic knowledge of lab techniques and scientific principles
- Ability to follow protocols and handle confidential information
- Good communication and teamwork skills
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
Medical Research Assistant Job Description for Resume
If you have worked before as a medical research assistant or presently working in that role and are making a new resume or CV, then you can create an impressive Professional Experience section by utilizing the medical research assistant job description sample above.
You can express the duties you have performed or currently carrying out as a medical research assistant in your resume’s Professional Experience by applying the ones in the sample medical research assistant job description above.
This will show to the employer that you have been successful in the role of a medical research assistant, which can greatly boost your chances of being hired for the new position that you are seeking, especially if it requires someone with some medical research assistant work experience.
Conclusion
This post provides exhaustive information on the medical research assistant job description, highlighting the major duties, tasks, and responsibilities they typically perform.
It is useful to individuals interested in the medical research assistant career, to learn all they need to know about what they do.
It is also beneficial to employers needing to make a job description for the medical research assistant role for their organizations.
They can simply edit and apply the medical research assistant job description templates provided on this page.
