Associate Scientist Jobs in Alabama
Associate Scientist jobs in Alabama are consistently active, with steady demand concentrated in pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, and agricultural research, drawing candidates at the entry and mid-career levels alike. Birmingham, Huntsville, and Mobile anchor most of the hiring, with established employers like Bayer, Southern Research, and UAB Health System maintaining ongoing needs for laboratory and research talent. The most in-demand specialties are analytical chemistry, cell biology, and quality control sciences. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Department: Center for Space Plasma & Aeronomic Research
Work type: Staff Full-time Exempt
Location: Alabama
Categories: Research - Engineering
Duties/Responsibilities
- Conduct astrophysical research at the postdoctoral level within the designated area of specialization.
- Analyze and interpret X-ray observational data from the XRISM mission related to the active galactic nucleus in NGC 7212.
- Complete data analysis and research activities associated with Research Program 12190, Cosmic Ray Spallation and the Enigmatic Extended Narrow Line Region of NGC 7212.
- Characterize and evaluate the origins of X-ray emission through comparative analysis with Chandra X-ray Observatory data.
- Investigate the influence of obscuring torus structures on observed X-ray emission characteristics.
- Develop, apply, and assess phenomenological models of X-ray line emission.
- Utilize physically motivated modeling techniques, including reflection models and thermal ionized plasma models, to interpret observational data as project priorities and timelines permit.
- Interpret research findings, document results, and contribute to the advancement of astrophysical research objectives.
- Collaborate with principal investigators and research team members to achieve project milestones and support sponsored research initiatives.
- Prepare, write, and publish peer-reviewed astrophysical research papers based on the analysis and interpretation of observational data.
- Analyze new and existing XRISM X-ray Observatory data collected from observations of the active galaxy NGC 7212.
- Document and characterize the potential detection of highly ionized helium-like vanadium and evaluate its astrophysical significance.
- Analyze and interpret X-ray emission and absorption features identified through XRISM Research Program 12190, Cosmic Ray Spallation and the Enigmatic Extended Narrow Line Region of NGC 7212.
- Apply relevant physical models to characterize observed emission and absorption properties and constrain their underlying astrophysical processes.
- Interpret research findings, prepare scientific manuscripts, and disseminate results through peer-reviewed publications and other scholarly communications.
- Maintain accurate documentation of research methodologies, analytical procedures, and study results in accordance with scientific and sponsor requirements.
- Collaborate with research team members to support project objectives and advance sponsored astrophysical research initiatives.
- Conduct collaborative astrophysical research utilizing multiple astrophysical targets and data from NASA X-ray observatories, including polarimetric observations from IXPE.
- Analyze and interpret observational data from IXPE and other NASA X-ray observatories to investigate black holes and other high-energy astrophysical phenomena.
- Develop and submit scientific observing proposals to obtain new IXPE observations in support of sponsored research objectives.
- Design observational strategies and research methodologies to advance the understanding of black holes and other energetic astrophysical systems.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams to plan, execute, and disseminate findings from observational research projects.
- Contribute to the development of innovative research initiatives and future observational programs that support the advancement of high-energy astrophysics.
- Master's degree or an equivalent combination of education and years of experience
- 6 - 9 months full-time verifiable work experience
- Previous analysis of XRISM data using relevant AGN models such as MYTorus. Previous X-ray work on NGC 7212.
- Knowledge of MS Office Suite
- Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics preferred
- 3 years of postdoctoral research in astrophysics using XRISM and IXPE. Multiple first-author black hole publications are desired.
- Focus: X-ray study of supermassive black holes preferred
- Collaboration with NASA scientists using XRISM and IXPE, studying black holes and neutron stars. Experience as PI of NASA X-ray observations is desired.
- Previous IXPE proposal submissions. Familiarity with the NASA proposal review process, such as service on a panel for IXPE peer review preferred.
$68,151 - $69,000
Advertised: Jul 10 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: Jul 15 2026 Central Daylight Time
See All 70 Associate Scientist Jobs in Alabama
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Find Associate Scientist JobsAssociate Scientist Jobs by City in Alabama
Where Alabama roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Associate Scientist Job Market in Alabama
A snapshot from current Alabama openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- University of Alabama in Huntsville14

- Baptist Health11

- University of Alabama, Birmingham9

- Huntsville Hospital Health System3

- Leidos2

Top Industries Hiring
- Education18
- Healthcare & Medical Services16
- Technology & Software2
- Consulting & Professional Services2
- Automotive1
What Alabama Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in associate scientist jobs across Alabama.
- Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related natural science
- Hands-on laboratory experience with standard techniques such as PCR, ELISA, or cell culture
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, GraphPad Prism, or laboratory information management systems
- Strong written communication skills for documenting experimental protocols and summarizing results
- Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment within regulated research settings
Associate Scientist Jobs in Alabama: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a associate scientist in Alabama?
Most associate scientist roles in Alabama require at minimum a bachelor's degree in a life or physical science such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry, with many employers preferring candidates who have completed relevant laboratory coursework or undergraduate research. Alabama does not issue a state license specifically for associate scientists, so hiring decisions focus on education, demonstrated lab skills, and relevant internship or co-op experience. Candidates who complete programs at University of Alabama, Auburn University, or UAB tend to be well-positioned for roles in the state's pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.
Which companies hire associate scientists in Alabama?
Alabama associate scientist roles are posted by University of Alabama in Huntsville, Baptist Health, and University of Alabama, Birmingham and others right now, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Alabama's pharmaceutical manufacturing corridor and research institutions support a consistent pipeline of openings for entry and mid-level laboratory professionals.
Which Alabama cities have the most associate scientist jobs?
Birmingham, Alabama, and Huntsville account for the largest share of associate scientist openings in Alabama. Birmingham leads because of its dense concentration of medical research institutions and UAB's sprawling health and science enterprise, while Huntsville draws demand from defense-adjacent life science contractors, and Mobile benefits from industrial and environmental testing operations tied to the Gulf Coast.
Are there remote associate scientist jobs in Alabama?
Yes, but they're rare. Most associate scientist work is hands-on and requires physical presence in a laboratory, manufacturing floor, or field setting. About 42% of associate scientist openings tied to Alabama are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, and those positions tend to be skewed toward data analysis, scientific writing, or regulatory affairs functions rather than bench research.
How can I get hired as a associate scientist in Alabama with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to new-graduate or associate-level laboratory roles at Alabama's large research institutions and manufacturers, where prior internship or co-op experience in a university lab often substitutes for formal work history. UAB, Southern Research, and Bayer's Alabama sites regularly bring on early-career candidates through structured onboarding programs. Lateral moves from quality control technician or lab assistant roles are common stepping stones. Completing undergraduate research, earning an EHS or GLP certificate, and building a portfolio of documented experimental work meaningfully strengthens any application.
Where can I find and apply to associate scientist jobs in Alabama?
You can find and apply to associate scientist jobs in Alabama on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings across the state. Search the available roles, identify the ones that match your background and location, and apply directly to the positions that fit your experience and career goals.
See All 70 Associate Scientist Jobs in Alabama
Find roles in Alabama that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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