#PHN

If you read our last post about academic research, you already know how valuable those entry-level roles can be for learning, growth, and discovery. But what if you’re someone who thrives on solving real-world problems with real-world outcomes? What if you want your research to leave the lab and make its way to hospitals, manufacturing lines, or even climate models?

That’s where industry research comes in.

Whether you’re passionate about pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, or consumer health products, industry offers a wide spectrum of research roles that blend scientific rigor with direct application. And the best part? These positions are not just for people with advanced degrees or 10+ years of experience. They’re available to recent graduates, career explorers, and even undergrads seeking summer roles.

Let’s break down what entry-level industry research is all about—and why it might be the perfect fit for you.

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So, What Counts as Industry Research?

Industry research happens outside of academic or government institutions. You’ll find these roles in:

• Pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Pfizer, AbbVie, Novartis)
• Biotech firms (e.g., Genentech, Illumina, Ginkgo Bioworks)
• Environmental & sustainability companies
• Medical device developers
• Food & consumer goods (e.g., 3M, Procter & Gamble)
• Clinical research organizations (CROs) like ICON, IQVIA, or Labcorp

Your job might involve testing new compounds, designing experiments for product development, supporting clinical trials, or analyzing large datasets to optimize a product.

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How Does It Compare to Academic Research?

Let’s talk vibe.

Aspect	Academic Research	Industry Research
Pace	Often exploratory, longer timelines	Faster, goal-driven
Focus	Publishing and generating new knowledge	Producing results with commercial or public impact
Mentorship	Close work with faculty and grad students	Supervision by team leads or project managers
Flexibility	Usually part-time or tied to the school year	Often full-time, structured shifts
Funding	Grants and institutional budgets	Corporate R&D budgets
Outcome	Publications, thesis, grants	Patents, prototypes, product launches

In short: academic research is great for foundational learning, but industry research puts your science to work—on timelines, with deliverables, and often with cross-disciplinary teams.

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Why Start in Industry? Here Are the Perks

There’s a lot to love about getting your start in industry research:

• 💼 More structured work environments: You’ll likely have defined hours, team roles, and training protocols.
• 💰 Better starting salaries: Industry positions often pay more than academic RA roles, especially at full-time entry level.
• 🚀 Clearer advancement tracks: Many companies offer professional development, internal mobility, and early promotion opportunities.
• 🔬 Exposure to applied innovation: You’ll see how R&D leads to real products and solutions—fast.
• 🧠 Transferable skills: Industry teaches project management, collaboration, and regulatory knowledge that’s invaluable across sectors.

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Where Can Students Find Industry Roles?

You don’t need a foot in the door to start exploring. Here’s how students and grads are finding roles:

For Undergrads & Summer Seekers

Look into summer internships and co-ops at companies like:

• AbbVie Internship Program – paid internships in pharma and life sciences
• Genentech’s Summer Internship Program – biotech-focused with real lab experience
• 3M Student Programs – includes lab and data roles in R&D

Tip: Many of these open applications in fall and spring—so start early and set reminders!

For Seniors & Recent Grads

Check full-time listings like:

• Clinical Research Coordinator – Labcorp
• Research Associate – Moderna
• Biotech Lab Technician – Ginkgo Bioworks
• Environmental Research Analyst – Stantec

You can also filter listings on Handshake, LinkedIn, and Indeed by “entry level,” “research associate,” or “lab technician” + your interest area.

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How to Stand Out When Applying

Whether you’re applying for a summer internship or a full-time role, here’s how to shine:

• Customize your resume with action verbs and lab/project experience
• Highlight soft skills like communication, adaptability, or teamwork
• Learn the lingo—mention tools like ELNs, CRISPR, Python, or PCR (only if you’ve used them!)
• Write a short, energetic cover letter that shows your enthusiasm for the company’s mission

And don’t underestimate your campus connections—ask your professors or career center if they know alumni in your target field.

Message From The Career Center

Whether you’re just starting to think about summer opportunities or have been searching with no luck—we’re here to help. The Career Center offers personalized support, and we’ve worked with tons of students in all kinds of situations.

Not sure where to start? Feeling stuck? We can help you:

✔️ Explore internship or job ideas
✔️ Polish your resume or cover letter
✔️ Navigate Handshake or other search tools
✔️ Make a plan that works for you

Our goal is to make things clearer, not more stressful.

📅 Book a time that works for you:  http://lawrence.joinhandshake.com/appointments/new

No pressure, just helpful conversation and actionable steps.

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Final Thoughts: Industry Research = Science in Action

Here’s the truth: whether you end up in academia, clinical work, or the corporate world, entry-level industry research is one of the most dynamic ways to start your career. You’ll be immersed in teamwork, real data, and real impact. And yes—you’ll grow. A lot.

Whether you’re a curious sophomore looking for a summer experience or a senior thinking ahead to post-grad life, don’t overlook the world of industry. It’s where science meets speed. Ideas become innovations. And you? You become a researcher who makes things happen.

So go ahead—apply. Email that recruiter. Tweak that resume. Your future in research doesn’t have to be confined to the ivory tower. Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you step outside the lab coat.

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If you’re even thinking about research—whether in a biology lab, a clinical setting, a psychology department, or out in the field—you’re already asking the right questions. Entry-level academic research positions are one of the most accessible (and frankly, coolest) ways to get real-world experience after graduation. They teach you how science actually works, how discovery happens, and how teams solve problems when the answers aren’t in the back of the textbook.

But here’s the thing: research isn’t just for students with a 4.0 GPA or decades of lab experience. And it’s definitely not only for seniors. Whether you’re a curious first-year, a junior feeling behind, or a graduating senior wondering what’s next—you’ve got options. Let’s talk about how to get started and why these positions are worth exploring.

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What Is an Entry-Level Research Role?

Entry-level research positions are essentially your gateway into the world of professional discovery. Common job titles include:

• Research Assistant
• Laboratory Technician
• Clinical Research Coordinator
• Undergraduate or Post-Bacc Fellow

These roles might involve organizing data, helping with lab experiments, assisting clinical teams, or reviewing academic literature. Some are hands-on in wet labs; others are more analytical and computer-based. Many are offered through universities, hospitals, nonprofit research institutes, or government agencies.

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You Don’t Need a Perfect GPA—Really

“I probably can’t get a research job unless I have a 4.0.”
– Every student ever (who’s been misinformed)

That’s just not true.

While strong grades can help, many hiring managers care more about your curiosity, organization, and persistence. Some of the most effective researchers aren’t straight-A students—they’re the ones who ask great questions, troubleshoot patiently, and show up consistently.

So yes—apply, even if your GPA isn’t perfect. Your interest and attitude can go a long way.

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How Students of Any Year Can Prepare

Whether you’re just starting college or approaching graduation, you can start laying the groundwork for a research career right now:

🎓 First-Years & Sophomores

Attend student research symposia or guest faculty talks. Ask questions. Join science or pre-health clubs. Take your lab classes seriously—they build your foundation and show future mentors you’re engaged.

🔬 Juniors

This is prime time to gain direct experience. Talk to professors about helping in their labs. Apply for summer programs like NSF REUs or SURF. Look for research-for-credit or independent study options.

🎓 Seniors & Recent Graduates

You’re in a great position to apply for full-time entry-level roles. These positions are often posted year-round. Use job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn Jobs, and Handshake to find them.

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Where to Find Positions (And How to Stand Out)

Start with:

• 🔍 Indeed: Entry-Level Research Assistant Jobs
• 🔍Handshake: College student inspired
• 🔍 LinkedIn Jobs: Research Roles
• 🔍 Glassdoor: Entry-Level Research Positions
• 🔍 Bi-weekly LU Career Community Newsletter: Tailored opportunities from the Career Center (Sign-up)

Also, don’t underestimate your own campus. Talk to your professors, department coordinators, or career center staff (book an appointment). Research roles are often filled internally before they’re posted publicly.

When applying:

• Tailor your resume to highlight lab coursework, writing skills, or past internships
• Write a brief, specific cover letter showing interest in that lab’s work
• Ask for strong references from faculty who know your work ethic

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A Few Real Examples (You Can Apply to Right Now)

Here are a few open roles (note: listings change fast, so check frequently):

• 🧬 Clinical Research Assistant at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston) – supporting oncology studies, patient interaction
• 🧠 Neuroscience Research Assistant at NYU Langone (NYC) – EEG and behavioral work on memory
• 🧫 Molecular Biology Tech at UC San Diego – genetic experiments in a university lab

Tip: Set up alerts on these platforms so you never miss a posting!

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Real Talk: Research Isn’t Always Glamorous

There are days you’ll do repetitive data entry. There will be weeks when experiments fail. You might run the same protocol 20 times.

But there are also breakthrough moments. Times when you contribute to something no one’s ever known before. Times when your PI says, “This figure is going in the paper—and you’re listed as an author.”

The growth is real, and the impact is lasting.

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✨ Your Next Chapter Starts Here

If you’re still wondering whether research is for you—let this be your sign: It is. The path to becoming a scientist, doctor, innovator, or data analyst often starts with a single role. One application. One professor who says yes.

You don’t have to have all the answers. You just need to be ready to ask great questions.

So take the leap. Hit submit. Reach out to that lab. Your journey of discovery is just beginning.