Entry Level Research Associate Jobs
New grad research associate jobs welcome recent graduates and entry level candidates with zero to two years of experience, where strong internship work or a focused portfolio can matter more than a long resume. Most openings are on-site roles concentrated in Education, Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, and Science & Research, with employers like JPMorganChase, University of Miami, and University of Arizona hiring at this level now.
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Showing 3 of 264+ Entry Level Research Associate jobs
INTRODUCTION
Join a team that's shaping the future of pediatric care. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is consistently ranked among the top 10 children's hospitals in the nation, delivering world-class care through more than 350 specialized programs and services. Here, world-class experts in medicine, research, and education work together to deliver family-centered care to more than 155,000 patients each year. At CHLA, your work will help build brighter tomorrows for the children and families we serve.
Overview
Purpose Statement/Position Summary: The HS & Behavioral Research Associate I in the Neurology department provides expert behavioral support to research studies focused on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related genetic conditions. This position plays a central role in ensuring that children with ASD can participate fully, comfortably, and safely in research procedures — including cognitive and developmental assessments, electroencephalography (EEG), and eye-tracking tasks. The Behavioral Specialist collaborates closely with investigators, research coordinators, and clinical staff to design and implement individualized behavioral strategies and preparation protocols that maximize data quality while prioritizing participant well-being.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop, adapt, and continuously refine individualized behavioral support protocols to prepare children with ASD for research procedures (cognitive/developmental assessments, EEG, eye tracking).
- Design structured desensitization plans to familiarize participants with equipment, environments, and task demands prior to data collection.
- Create visual supports, social stories, task schedules, and reinforcement systems tailored to each participant's needs and preferences.
- Provide in-session behavioral support during research visits as needed.
- Conduct brief intake interviews with families to assess each child's behavioral profile, communication style, sensory sensitivities, and preferred reinforcers.
- Implement real-time behavioral strategies to de-escalate anxiety, manage challenging behavior, and re-engage participants during procedures.
- Serve as a behavioral consultant to the research team, advising on participant accommodations and modifications to study procedures that preserve data integrity.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/WORK EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum of 2 years of direct experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a clinical, educational, or research setting highly preferred.
- Demonstrated proficiency in implementing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and other evidence-based behavioral interventions with children with ASD highly preferred.
- Strong ability to build rapport quickly with children across a range of ages, developmental profiles, and communication styles.
- Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary research team.
- Familiarity with cognitive and developmental assessments (e.g., Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales), EEG, or eye tracking paradigms preferred.
- Experience interviewing and recruiting project participants preferred.
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
EDUCATION/LICENSURE/CERTIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- College-level education in a related discipline preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Special Education, or a closely related field highly preferred.
- Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field preferred.
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential strongly preferred.
PAY SCALE INFORMATION:
CHLA values the contribution each Team Member brings to our organization. Final determination of a successful candidate’s starting pay will vary based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, education and experience within the job or the industry. The pay scale listed for this position is generally for candidates who meet the specified qualifications and requirements listed on this specific job description. Additional pay may be determined for those candidates who exceed these specified qualifications and requirements. We provide a competitive compensation package that recognizes your experience, credentials, and education alongside a robust benefits program to meet your needs.
Posting Range: USD $62,088.00 - USD $82,784.00
CLOSING:
CHLA is a leader in pediatric and adolescent health, in our community, across the nation, and around the world. As a premier Magnet®-recognized teaching hospital, CHLA offers an environment rooted in learning, collaboration, and compassionate care. We are home to groundbreaking research, clinical innovation, and a culture that supports personal and professional growth. Since 1932, CHLA has been affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Through this partnership and our own enduring mission, we remain committed to creating hope and building healthier futures.
EEO EXPLANATION:
At Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, our work matters. And so do each and every one of our valued team members. We consider qualified applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran or military status, genetic information or any other legally protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. We will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of state and local laws, including the LA City Fair Chance Ordinance and SF Fair Chance Ordinance.
Qualified Applicants with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodation under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact CHLA Human Resources if you need assistance completing the application process.
Our various experiences, perspectives and backgrounds allow us to better serve our patients and create a strong community at CHLA.
INTRODUCTION
Join a team that's shaping the future of pediatric care. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is consistently ranked among the top 10 children's hospitals in the nation, delivering world-class care through more than 350 specialized programs and services. Here, world-class experts in medicine, research, and education work together to deliver family-centered care to more than 155,000 patients each year. At CHLA, your work will help build brighter tomorrows for the children and families we serve.
Overview
Purpose Statement/Position Summary: The HS & Behavioral Research Associate I in the Neurology department provides expert behavioral support to research studies focused on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related genetic conditions. This position plays a central role in ensuring that children with ASD can participate fully, comfortably, and safely in research procedures — including cognitive and developmental assessments, electroencephalography (EEG), and eye-tracking tasks. The Behavioral Specialist collaborates closely with investigators, research coordinators, and clinical staff to design and implement individualized behavioral strategies and preparation protocols that maximize data quality while prioritizing participant well-being.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop, adapt, and continuously refine individualized behavioral support protocols to prepare children with ASD for research procedures (cognitive/developmental assessments, EEG, eye tracking).
- Design structured desensitization plans to familiarize participants with equipment, environments, and task demands prior to data collection.
- Create visual supports, social stories, task schedules, and reinforcement systems tailored to each participant's needs and preferences.
- Provide in-session behavioral support during research visits as needed.
- Conduct brief intake interviews with families to assess each child's behavioral profile, communication style, sensory sensitivities, and preferred reinforcers.
- Implement real-time behavioral strategies to de-escalate anxiety, manage challenging behavior, and re-engage participants during procedures.
- Serve as a behavioral consultant to the research team, advising on participant accommodations and modifications to study procedures that preserve data integrity.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/WORK EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum of 2 years of direct experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in a clinical, educational, or research setting highly preferred.
- Demonstrated proficiency in implementing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and other evidence-based behavioral interventions with children with ASD highly preferred.
- Strong ability to build rapport quickly with children across a range of ages, developmental profiles, and communication styles.
- Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary research team.
- Familiarity with cognitive and developmental assessments (e.g., Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales), EEG, or eye tracking paradigms preferred.
- Experience interviewing and recruiting project participants preferred.
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
EDUCATION/LICENSURE/CERTIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- College-level education in a related discipline preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Special Education, or a closely related field highly preferred.
- Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field preferred.
- Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential strongly preferred.
PAY SCALE INFORMATION:
CHLA values the contribution each Team Member brings to our organization. Final determination of a successful candidate’s starting pay will vary based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, education and experience within the job or the industry. The pay scale listed for this position is generally for candidates who meet the specified qualifications and requirements listed on this specific job description. Additional pay may be determined for those candidates who exceed these specified qualifications and requirements. We provide a competitive compensation package that recognizes your experience, credentials, and education alongside a robust benefits program to meet your needs.
Posting Range: USD $62,088.00 - USD $82,784.00
CLOSING:
CHLA is a leader in pediatric and adolescent health, in our community, across the nation, and around the world. As a premier Magnet®-recognized teaching hospital, CHLA offers an environment rooted in learning, collaboration, and compassionate care. We are home to groundbreaking research, clinical innovation, and a culture that supports personal and professional growth. Since 1932, CHLA has been affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California. Through this partnership and our own enduring mission, we remain committed to creating hope and building healthier futures.
EEO EXPLANATION:
At Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, our work matters. And so do each and every one of our valued team members. We consider qualified applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran or military status, genetic information or any other legally protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. We will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of state and local laws, including the LA City Fair Chance Ordinance and SF Fair Chance Ordinance.
Qualified Applicants with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodation under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact CHLA Human Resources if you need assistance completing the application process.
Our various experiences, perspectives and backgrounds allow us to better serve our patients and create a strong community at CHLA.
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Find JobsEntry Level Research Associate Job Market
Who's Hiring
- JPMorganChase12
- University of Miami12
- University of Arizona12
- IQVIA7
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension6
Top Industries Hiring
- Education120
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals43
- Science & Research39
- Healthcare & Medical Services32
- Consulting & Professional Services22
Entry Level Research Associate Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an entry level research associate job?
Start by highlighting coursework, lab experience, or internships that show you can collect, organize, and analyze data. Employers at this level value attention to detail, familiarity with research methods, and the ability to follow protocols accurately. A writing sample, a capstone project, or even volunteer research work can strengthen an application when your paid experience is limited.
Which companies hire entry level research associates?
Companies hiring entry level research associates right now include JPMorganChase, University of Miami, and University of Arizona, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. At this level, hiring comes from a wide range of employers, including universities, think tanks, pharmaceutical companies, market research firms, and government contractors that regularly bring on junior researchers to support larger teams.
Are there remote entry level research associate jobs?
Yes, though most openings at this stage are on-site or hybrid. About 12% of entry level research associate openings are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, so fully remote roles exist but are less common than in-person positions, particularly for candidates who are new to the role and still building hands-on skills.
Are these new grad research associate jobs?
Yes, many of these listings are new grad and junior roles that explicitly welcome candidates with little or no professional experience. A new grad-friendly posting typically accepts zero to two years of experience, counts internships or academic research toward eligibility, and does not require prior full-time employment. Recent graduates with relevant coursework or a portfolio are strong candidates.
Which industries hire the most entry level research associates?
Entry Level research associate roles concentrate in Education, Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, and Science & Research, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. These sectors tend to drive hiring at the junior level because they rely on large research teams where new graduates can contribute to data collection, literature reviews, and analysis while developing deeper expertise over time.