Research Associate Jobs in California
Research associate jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in life sciences, academic research, biotechnology, and public policy across a market that supports everything from entry-level lab positions through senior research scientist roles. The largest hiring centers are San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles, where organizations like Genentech, Scripps Research, and UCLA Health sustain a consistent need for research associates. The most in-demand specialties are clinical research, molecular biology, and behavioral or social science research. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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This position will be responsible for the general management of the research activities for Dr. David Brandman. Laboratory management includes: purchasing and receiving equipment and tracking inventory; organizing meetings, schedules, and outings; assisting onboarding new employees and acting as the first point of contact for lab members’ administrative questions; assisting faculty with administrative responsibilities such as preparing grants and grant progress reports; assisting faculty with clinical research programs and clinical quality improvement research which may requiring accessing patient charts or related clinical data; assisting faculty with their administrative program which may require faculty email and calendar access; being the group’s principal point of contact related to the physical lab space (for inspections, maintenance, etc.)
The position will be responsible for safety training of lab personnel, and undergraduate student volunteers and maintaining all health and safety training documentation for these individuals and campus EH&S compliance. The job will be primarily in-person with occasional work-from-home flexibility.
Apply By August 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm; Interviews maybe held at anytime
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- 1-3 years in a laboratory setting.
- Highly organized, able to maintain clear and complete records.
- Excellent verbal and written communicator, able to establish effective interactions with both faculty-level personnel and with students/fellows.
- Excellent computer skills.
- Ability to generate graphs, tables, summary documents, etc.
- Familiarity with animal care protocols, lab safety guidelines, cell culture protocols, biological use guidelines, and other procedures required of UCD investigators using rodents in laboratory research.
- Good teacher, with willingness to communicate with students and fellows. Excellent collaborative skills.
- Familiarity or ability to quickly learn ordering procedures at UCD.
- Familiarity with standard laboratory equipment (pH meters, balances, etc.).
Key Responsibilities
- 45% - Laboratory Management
- 40% - Laboratory Operations Support
- 15% - Laboratory Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Department Overview
The UC Davis Neuroprosthetics Lab is under the umbrella of the Department of Neurological Surgery, which is home to internationally recognized experts in neurosurgical disorders. We provide neurosurgical care for the majority of Northern California area and collaborate closely with the University's NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Level I Trauma Center, Center for Neuroscience, and Stroke Program to ensure that patients have access to advanced, multidisciplinary, patient focused care. We offer a full range of technologies and provide the most current and effective treatments for the entire spectrum of neurological disease. Our research programs have tested advances in new technology, neuroimaging, and treatments that improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with stroke, hydrocephalus, ALS, brain aneurysms, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, seizures, degenerative disc disease, and other diseases.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $32.79 - $52.75
- Salary Frequency: Hourly
- Salary Grade: 108
- UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
- UC Job Code: 009617
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Monday -Friday 8:00AM-5:00PM
- Location: Ellison Ambulatory Care Center (HSP098)
- Union Representation: RX-Research Professionals
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
- This position is designated as a mandated reporter under CANRA and UC policy, and employment is contingent on compliance with applicable policies, procedures and training requirements
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
This position will be responsible for the general management of the research activities for Dr. David Brandman. Laboratory management includes: purchasing and receiving equipment and tracking inventory; organizing meetings, schedules, and outings; assisting onboarding new employees and acting as the first point of contact for lab members’ administrative questions; assisting faculty with administrative responsibilities such as preparing grants and grant progress reports; assisting faculty with clinical research programs and clinical quality improvement research which may requiring accessing patient charts or related clinical data; assisting faculty with their administrative program which may require faculty email and calendar access; being the group’s principal point of contact related to the physical lab space (for inspections, maintenance, etc.)
The position will be responsible for safety training of lab personnel, and undergraduate student volunteers and maintaining all health and safety training documentation for these individuals and campus EH&S compliance. The job will be primarily in-person with occasional work-from-home flexibility.
Apply By August 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm; Interviews maybe held at anytime
Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- 1-3 years in a laboratory setting.
- Highly organized, able to maintain clear and complete records.
- Excellent verbal and written communicator, able to establish effective interactions with both faculty-level personnel and with students/fellows.
- Excellent computer skills.
- Ability to generate graphs, tables, summary documents, etc.
- Familiarity with animal care protocols, lab safety guidelines, cell culture protocols, biological use guidelines, and other procedures required of UCD investigators using rodents in laboratory research.
- Good teacher, with willingness to communicate with students and fellows. Excellent collaborative skills.
- Familiarity or ability to quickly learn ordering procedures at UCD.
- Familiarity with standard laboratory equipment (pH meters, balances, etc.).
Key Responsibilities
- 45% - Laboratory Management
- 40% - Laboratory Operations Support
- 15% - Laboratory Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Department Overview
The UC Davis Neuroprosthetics Lab is under the umbrella of the Department of Neurological Surgery, which is home to internationally recognized experts in neurosurgical disorders. We provide neurosurgical care for the majority of Northern California area and collaborate closely with the University's NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Level I Trauma Center, Center for Neuroscience, and Stroke Program to ensure that patients have access to advanced, multidisciplinary, patient focused care. We offer a full range of technologies and provide the most current and effective treatments for the entire spectrum of neurological disease. Our research programs have tested advances in new technology, neuroimaging, and treatments that improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with stroke, hydrocephalus, ALS, brain aneurysms, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, seizures, degenerative disc disease, and other diseases.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $32.79 - $52.75
- Salary Frequency: Hourly
- Salary Grade: 108
- UC Job Title: SRA 2 NEX
- UC Job Code: 009617
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): Monday -Friday 8:00AM-5:00PM
- Location: Ellison Ambulatory Care Center (HSP098)
- Union Representation: RX-Research Professionals
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
Physical Demands
- Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
- This position is designated as a mandated reporter under CANRA and UC policy, and employment is contingent on compliance with applicable policies, procedures and training requirements
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
See All 244+ Research Associate Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Associate Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center22
- UC San Diego11
- Stanford University7
- University of Southern California7
- UC San Diego Health6
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals36
- Education16
- Healthcare & Medical Services15
- Science & Research7
- Technology & Software5
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research associate jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in a life science, social science, or related field required
- Experience with data collection, analysis, and interpretation using standard research methods
- Familiarity with IRB protocols and human subjects research compliance procedures
- Proficiency in statistical software such as R, SPSS, SAS, or Python for data analysis
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports and presenting findings
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Research Associate Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research associate in California?
Most research associate roles in California require at minimum a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, psychology, or public health, with many positions at biotech firms and universities preferring a master's degree. Clinical research associates working on FDA-regulated trials are typically expected to hold or pursue certification through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals, which is widely recognized by California employers. Lab-based roles in regulated environments often require documented GLP or GCP training.
Which companies hire research associates in California?
Employers hiring research associates in California right now include Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, UC San Diego, and Stanford University, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. California's dense concentration of biotech firms, academic medical centers, and public health agencies means hiring is spread across a wide range of organization types and sizes.
Which California cities have the most research associate jobs?
The California cities with the most research associate openings are San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. San Francisco and San Diego dominate because of their established biotech and pharmaceutical corridors, while Los Angeles draws volume from its large university system, public health agencies, and growing life sciences campus developments in areas like Torrance and Pasadena.
Are there remote research associate jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare for most specializations. About 33% of research associate openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, reflecting that many positions require on-site lab work, patient interaction, or access to institutional equipment. The sub-roles most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are literature review, data analysis, policy research, and health economics positions that don't depend on physical lab access.
How can I get hired as a research associate in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is securing a paid research assistant or junior research associate role at a California university or teaching hospital, where departments like those at UC San Francisco, UC San Diego, and USC regularly post new-graduate positions that provide on-the-job training. Internship programs at biotech companies such as Genentech and Illumina also give candidates without full-time experience a direct route in. Completing relevant coursework in GCP compliance, earning an entry-level clinical research certification, or building a portfolio through thesis or capstone research strengthens applications considerably.
Where can I find and apply to research associate jobs in California?
You can find and apply to research associate jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings across the state. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 244+ Research Associate Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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