Pros
Great for students or in transit temporary job to build curriculum and experience, always an entry and mid level positions open with State benefits
Cons
With this job you will make just a living. Salaries are capped with limited raises that will by lower than the inflation and the cost of living, after deductions, I took home the same check for years despite the salary increases and benefits slowly decreased. Must of the basic research assistant task force are highly educated internationals in transit looking for curriculum experience or a license that accept low wages and long work hours, now subjected as Non-Exempt status still get limited or no overtime. If you get and associate position and don't significantly contribute for a grant more likely to be facing " a reduction of force " regardless and you may will be offer another similar position with the same or less growth expectations. There is No professional growth on research positions unless you have a federal grant and be part of the faculty or pointed by politics to corporate. you still will need a high degree and license(s) to move up.
