How to become a Lab Assistant? Follow these Steps!

Ever dreamed of working in a laboratory and want to know where to start? The role of a lab assistant can provide you with a great understanding of what it takes to work in a laboratory setting; however, you won’t need to have a highly extensive scientific background as it’s an entry-level role. You’ll also get to make a big difference by helping scientists and teams get their work done.

In this article, we will share what lab assistant eligibility consists of, as well as how to become a lab assistant.

Source: Pexels

What is a Lab Assistant?

A lab assistant does just what the position sounds like – assists in a lab! Lab assistants help scientists conduct experiments by preparing media for research activities. They have a variety of tasks they may manage, which we will touch on in the next section.

Lab assistants should not be confused with lab technicians, as the roles are a bit nuanced. Within the hierarchy of a lab, a lab technician is typically above a lab assistant as they tend to have more responsibilities and a higher level of education. Lab technicians usually work more hands-on with lab specimens and are in charge of sending reports once tests are completed.

What Does a Lab Assistant Do?

Depending on the lab or research project’s goals, lab assistant duties fluctuate. That being said, they tend to include responsibilities like:

• Participate in testing or operation of lab equipment
• Prepare tissues for examination
• Set up a research and teaching labs
• Order and distribute laboratory supplies
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment
• Take notes
• Identify and label samples
• Execute administrative and clerical duties
• Comply with lab procedures and regulations
• Research industry trends
• Perform basic analysis of lab samples
• Log and document data and results

It’s of utmost importance that any lab assistant understands compliance rules and protocols to protect safety and accuracy within a lab setting.

How to Become a Lab Assistant?

See yourself in a white coat, lab goggles, and making a difference? If you wish to pursue the position of becoming a lab assistant, you’ll need at least a high school diploma.

However, most labs will look more favorably upon applicants who possess an associate’s or bachelor’s degree that entails experience within labs. For example, it’s advisable to pursue a degree in mathematics, medical technology, life sciences, biology, chemistry, health science, or a related field.

Additionally, if you have a bachelor’s degree and wish to begin your career as a lab assistant and work your way up into the position of a laboratory technician, then a bachelor’s degree will prepare you to do so.

Whatever your background may be, applying for a lab assistant role will typically require you to submit your resume. On your resume, whether you have lab experience or not, it’s valuable to portray the skills that will show you’re a good fit for the role. If it’s possible, consider highlighting any experience or background in:

• Customer service
• Patient care
• Communication skills
• Organization skills
• Analytical skills
• Lab equipment management
• Specimen collection

Whether you choose to earn a bachelor’s degree or not, you can boost your skills and knowledge by enrolling in a certificate program. At the University of the People, we offer certificate programs in subject areas that can benefit you as a lab assistant. Under the category of health science certificates, we offer four different subject area specializations, including a human biology online certificate. By completing a certificate program, you can increase your expertise, boost your professional opportunities, and build your reputation and resume, to name a few advantages. Students get to learn entirely online and at a relatively low cost because our institution is tuition-free. 

Benefits of Becoming a Lab Assistant

While a lab assistant role is often a step in the direction of becoming a research scientist, lab technician, or a higher-level role in a lab setting, there are many benefits to starting in this position.

Let’s take a look at what they are:

• In-Demand: Lab assistants are in high demand as healthcare occupation employment is on the rise. With an aging population, the demand for medical care and research that supports it is only increasing.
• Provide Value: Lab assistants are behind-the-scenes performing tests and procedures to support physicians in diagnosing and properly treating patients. Lab assistants play a vital role in keeping labs sanitized, stocked, and running properly.
• Patient-Facing: Lab assistants are often the people who are in front of patients during critical and sensitive times. As such, lab assistants must possess a level of empathy and have proper bedside manners.

Source: Pexels 

Lab Assistant: Job Outlook

Payscale reports that lab assistants earn an average of $16.57 per hour in the United States. The figure varies based on lab location, experience, and education, of course.

Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of lab technologists and technicians is growing faster than average at 11%, so getting started as a lab assistant offers strong career prospects and growth opportunities.

Lab assistants can be found working in labs located in hospitals, diagnostic centers, doctor’s offices, and other medical settings.

The Bottom Line

Becoming a lab assistant means that you get to work in a lab, make a positive impact on research and diagnostics, and grow as much as you wish to within the medical and scientific field. Of course, if you choose to become a research scientist, you’ll have to continue on with your education beyond a high school diploma or even a bachelor’s degree.

Or, if you’re looking to just get started in the field or remain within an entry-level position, then you can have a positive impact on the inner workings of a lab by working as a lab assistant.