CPT Research Assistant Jobs

Research Assistant jobs are one of the most CPT-compatible roles for F-1 students: the work directly ties to your academic program, and most university labs and research institutions are already familiar with the DSO authorization process. Your CPT must be declared integral to your curriculum before you start work.

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Overview

Open Jobs26+
Work Type85% On-site
Top LocationSan Jose, CA
Most JobsTikTok

Showing 5 of 26+ Research Assistant jobs

Generative AI Researcher Intern
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Added 3mo ago
Generative AI Researcher Intern
TikTok
San Jose, California
Software Engineering
Data Science & Analytics
AI (Artificial Intelligence)
ML (Machine Learning)
Data Science
$60/hr
On-Site
Doctorate

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Quantitative Researcher Intern
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Added 3mo ago
Quantitative Researcher Intern
Scientech Research LLC
Jersey City, New Jersey
Data Science & Analytics
Data Science
Data Analytics
$4,500/week
On-Site
Master's

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Research Assistant Intern
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Added 6mo ago
Research Assistant Intern
University of Miami
Miami, Florida
Laboratory Research
Biotech & Life Sciences
Clinical Trials & Medical Research
Clinical Trials
On-Site
High School
10,000+

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AI Robotics Researcher Intern (Dexterous Manipulation)
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Added 7mo ago
AI Robotics Researcher Intern (Dexterous Manipulation)
Nio Usa
San Jose, California
Software Engineering
Specialized Engineering
Data Science & Analytics
AI (Artificial Intelligence)
Robotics Engineering
Data Science
$79k - $96k/yr
On-Site
Bachelor's

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Hunyuan Multimodal Algorithm Researcher Intern(Omni-Modal)​​
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Added 8mo ago
Hunyuan Multimodal Algorithm Researcher Intern(Omni-Modal)​​
Tencent America
Palo Alto, California
Software Engineering
Data Science & Analytics
Data Engineering
$80k - $125k/yr
On-Site
Bachelor's

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Research Assistant CPT: Frequently Asked Questions

Does a Research Assistant position qualify for CPT authorization?

A Research Assistant role qualifies for CPT if the work is an integral part of your established curriculum, not just related to your field. Your program must require or formally offer academic credit for the experience. A generic research job that your DSO can't connect to a specific course or program requirement won't clear CPT authorization, even if it's in your exact field of study.

Can I do CPT at a lab or institution outside my university?

Yes. CPT is not restricted to on-campus employers. Off-campus Research Assistant positions at government labs, private research institutions, or industry employers all qualify as long as your DSO certifies the work is integral to your curriculum. Your DSO will typically require a training agreement or offer letter describing the research duties before issuing the updated I-20.

How do I find Research Assistant employers who understand CPT?

Migrate Mate shows Research Assistant postings from employers with documented work authorization filing history, helping you identify institutions already familiar with F-1 students. Federal and university-affiliated research labs are generally the most CPT-experienced. Avoid leading with CPT mechanics in your outreach; instead confirm the employer can provide the offer letter your DSO requires.

Does CPT for a Research Assistant role affect my future H-1B eligibility?

CPT itself doesn't affect H-1B visa eligibility. What matters is your OPT usage: if you accumulate 12 or more months of full-time CPT across your degree, you lose your OPT eligibility, which eliminates the OPT and cap-gap path to H-1B. Part-time CPT, defined by USCIS as under 20 hours per week, doesn't count toward that 12-month threshold regardless of how many semesters you work.

What documents does a Research Assistant employer need from me for CPT?

You'll need to provide your CPT-authorized I-20, which lists the specific employer, job title, start and end dates, and whether the authorization is part-time or full-time. Some employers also request your F-1 visa stamp and I-94 record. The employer is not required to file anything with USCIS for CPT; the authorization is entirely school-issued, which is why the offer letter must come before your DSO issues the updated I-20.