Research Associate Jobs
Research Associate jobs are open across academia, biotech, pharmaceuticals, public health, and social sciences, at every level from new-grad to senior, with specializations in clinical research, data analysis, and laboratory science. Find a role that fits from the openings below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 1,740+ Research Associate jobs
Market Range: 11
Hiring Salary: $4,600.33 - $5,250.00/Monthly
THIS IS A GRANT-FUNDED POSITION FUNDED UNTIL JUNE 30, 2029.
JOB SUMMARY/ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, this position contributes to the small molecule drug development efforts and is focused on supporting pre-clinical drug development in animal models with specific focus on pharmacokinetic assessments, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling and simulation, application of pharmacometrics techniques and bioanalytical analysis using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Assists with mentoring graduate assistants, junior fellows, and research assistants in proper laboratory procedure and techniques.
- Works independently and collaboratively with research lab members to oversee and perform research work and provide scientific expertise/input on experimental planning for assigned projects.
- Plans, executes, documents, and analyzes in vitro and in vivo studies in pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism.
- Performs pharmacokinetic analyses and modeling using PK software, including Phoenix WinNonlin, NONMEM, and R.
- Develops and validates LC-MS/MS assays and analyzes biological samples.
- Assists in managing day-to-day lab activities for the assigned lab space.
- Performs basic material and lab equipment management functions, including ordering and stocking supplies.
- Assists in mentoring and training graduate students and junior postdocs in pharmacokinetic and bioanalytical techniques.
- Assists in gaining approval and adhering to compliance requirements for all performed experimentation.
- Presents research data at scientific meetings and conferences.
- Creates and updates thorough documentation of research activities and results, as well as lab-related safety policies; updates them as needed.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION: Ph.D. in pharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, or related field of study. (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED)
EXPERIENCE: Five (5) years of experience in pharmacokinetic research and LC-MS based analysis of small molecule drugs and metabolites in biological fluids, preferably related to anti-infective drug development with at least three (3) years as a Postdoctoral Scholar. Experience in maintaining and organizing lab space. (Minimum of five years of experience in animal-based pharmacology research preferred).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Ability to work independently in planning, development, standardization, validation, and documentation of LC-MS/MS based assays including sample preparation for quantitation of drugs in biological samples.
- Demonstrated knowledge in handling and utilizing pharmacokinetic animal models.
- Knowledge and proficiency in population pharmacokinetic analyses techniques.
- Ability to communicate efficiently with colleagues from other disciplines and work as a highly motivated self-starter that is creative, result- and milestone-oriented.
- Ability to display high competency and experience in pharmacokinetic data analysis.
- Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills in English are required.
- Knowledge and proficiency in clinical pharmacology and clinical research would be an advantage.
Market Range: 11
Hiring Salary: $4,600.33 - $5,250.00/Monthly
THIS IS A GRANT-FUNDED POSITION FUNDED UNTIL JUNE 30, 2029.
JOB SUMMARY/ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, this position contributes to the small molecule drug development efforts and is focused on supporting pre-clinical drug development in animal models with specific focus on pharmacokinetic assessments, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling and simulation, application of pharmacometrics techniques and bioanalytical analysis using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Assists with mentoring graduate assistants, junior fellows, and research assistants in proper laboratory procedure and techniques.
- Works independently and collaboratively with research lab members to oversee and perform research work and provide scientific expertise/input on experimental planning for assigned projects.
- Plans, executes, documents, and analyzes in vitro and in vivo studies in pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism.
- Performs pharmacokinetic analyses and modeling using PK software, including Phoenix WinNonlin, NONMEM, and R.
- Develops and validates LC-MS/MS assays and analyzes biological samples.
- Assists in managing day-to-day lab activities for the assigned lab space.
- Performs basic material and lab equipment management functions, including ordering and stocking supplies.
- Assists in mentoring and training graduate students and junior postdocs in pharmacokinetic and bioanalytical techniques.
- Assists in gaining approval and adhering to compliance requirements for all performed experimentation.
- Presents research data at scientific meetings and conferences.
- Creates and updates thorough documentation of research activities and results, as well as lab-related safety policies; updates them as needed.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION: Ph.D. in pharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, or related field of study. (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED)
EXPERIENCE: Five (5) years of experience in pharmacokinetic research and LC-MS based analysis of small molecule drugs and metabolites in biological fluids, preferably related to anti-infective drug development with at least three (3) years as a Postdoctoral Scholar. Experience in maintaining and organizing lab space. (Minimum of five years of experience in animal-based pharmacology research preferred).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Ability to work independently in planning, development, standardization, validation, and documentation of LC-MS/MS based assays including sample preparation for quantitation of drugs in biological samples.
- Demonstrated knowledge in handling and utilizing pharmacokinetic animal models.
- Knowledge and proficiency in population pharmacokinetic analyses techniques.
- Ability to communicate efficiently with colleagues from other disciplines and work as a highly motivated self-starter that is creative, result- and milestone-oriented.
- Ability to display high competency and experience in pharmacokinetic data analysis.
- Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills in English are required.
- Knowledge and proficiency in clinical pharmacology and clinical research would be an advantage.
Research Associate Jobs by Experience Level
Top Cities Hiring Research Associates
Explore research associate openings in the cities hiring most right now.
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Find Research Associate JobsResearch Associate Job Market
Who's Hiring
- IQVIA174
- Thermo Fisher Scientific50
- University of Arizona44
- University of Virginia30
- University of Miami28
Top Industries Hiring
- Education57
- Science & Research37
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals28
- Consulting & Professional Services24
- Healthcare & Medical Services12
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research associate jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant scientific or social science field
- Experience with statistical software such as SPSS, SAS, R, or Stata
- Familiarity with IRB protocols, informed consent procedures, and research ethics
- Proficiency in data collection, entry, and quality control processes
- Strong written communication skills for reports, manuscripts, or grant summaries
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and maintain accurate laboratory or study records
Tips for Your Research Associate Job Search
Tailor your resume to the study type
Research associate roles in clinical trials, behavioral studies, and bench science each expect different skills on a resume. Swap generic terms like 'data collection' for method-specific language: IRB protocols, GLP compliance, or regression modeling, depending on what the posting actually describes.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists research associate openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Match your keywords to the job posting
Many employers run applications through automated screening that flags specific tools and methods. Read the posting carefully and mirror its exact language, whether that's SPSS, REDCap, Western blot, or systematic review, so your resume clears the first filter.
Show your contribution, not just your duties
Hiring managers read dozens of resumes that list assay types or survey administration. Stand out by noting your actual contribution: the sample size you managed, the protocol deviation you flagged, or the dataset you cleaned and handed off to a statistician.
Ask about the PI or team lead in interviews
Your day-to-day experience as a research associate depends heavily on the principal investigator or team lead running the project. Asking one specific question about mentorship style or publication authorship norms signals professional maturity and helps you assess whether the role is actually a good fit.
Negotiate your title before you accept
Research associate titles vary widely across institutions and companies. Before accepting an offer, clarify what distinguishes your level from a research assistant or associate scientist, since your title affects internal promotion timelines and how your next employer reads your experience.
Research Associate Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most research associates?
The companies hiring the most research associates right now include IQVIA, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and University of Arizona, with the largest share of openings in California, Massachusetts, and Texas, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand is particularly concentrated in biotech, academic medical centers, and contract research organizations.
How many research associate jobs are remote?
About 50% of research associate openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with the highest remote share in roles focused on data analysis, systematic reviews, and qualitative research rather than laboratory or clinical site work, which typically requires an on-site presence.
How do you become a research associate?
You typically start by earning a bachelor's degree in biology, psychology, public health, social sciences, or a closely related field, then build hands-on experience through undergraduate research, internships, or post-baccalaureate programs. Developing proficiency in at least one statistical or data management tool strengthens your application, and many candidates move into associate roles directly from a senior undergraduate thesis project or a research coordinator position.
Can you get a research associate job with little experience?
Yes, many entry-level research associate postings are designed for candidates with limited professional experience, particularly in academic settings and contract research organizations. Strong candidates with minimal paid experience focus on coursework-based research projects, volunteer lab hours, or thesis work, and emphasize transferable skills like data entry accuracy, protocol adherence, and scientific writing rather than years on the job.
What does the research associate interview process look like?
Most research associate interviews involve an initial phone or video screen with a recruiter or hiring manager, followed by a technical or skills-based conversation covering your methods experience and familiarity with relevant tools. Some employers add a written exercise, a lab practical, or a short presentation on a past project. Final rounds often include a meeting with the principal investigator or broader team to assess fit with the study's goals and working style.
Where can I find and apply to research associate jobs?
You can find and apply to research associate jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States in one place. Find roles that match your background and apply directly to each listing. There's no need to go elsewhere to compare or cross-reference postings.
See All 1,740+ Research Associate Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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