Research Associate Jobs in Boston, MA
Research Associate jobs in Boston are concentrated in the Longwood Medical Area, Kendall Square, and the Seaport District, with strong demand across life sciences, academic research, and biotech. Employers actively hiring include Vertex Pharmaceuticals, PwC, and Deloitte. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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About the Opportunity
Job Summary
The Dong Theoretical and Computational Chemistry Lab at Northeastern University seeks enthusiastic postdoctoral researchers to join as soon as possible. The research focus is on developing and applying first-principles-based and data-driven computational methods to understand multiscale processes and accelerate chemical discoveries for renewable energy, biomedicine, and other areas of societal importance.
Specific projects may involve developing multiscale simulation methods for quantum mechanical properties of macromolecules; developing novel ways to combine quantum chemical methods and machine learning; developing quantum algorithms for computational chemistry on quantum computers; and applying existing and new computational methods to study multiscale processes in catalysis and photochemistry and to design photo-active proteins and macromolecular catalysts. Other projects that align with the lab's general interests are also possible. For further details, visit https://sdonglab.org/.
The initial appointment is for one year, with the potential for extension depending on regular progress evaluation and continuation of funding.
Minimum Qualifications
Required
- PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science, chemical engineering, bioengineering, or a closely related field
- Strong problem-solving skills and a high level of self-motivation
- Experience with at least one of the following areas: excited-state simulation methods, multiscale simulations (QM/MM a plus), catalysis (biological, homogeneous, or heterogeneous), molecular dynamics simulations, sampling techniques, machine learning, or quantum computing; experience in two or more areas is a strong plus
- Strong oral and written communication skills with a willingness to contribute to a multidisciplinary environment
Preferred
- Programming skills in Python or Fortran
- Coding and/or machine learning experience
Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities
- Conduct original research as the primary responsibility of the role.
- Write and co-author research papers for publication.
- Present research at conferences and meetings.
- Contribute to research proposals and funding applications.
- Manage research data and software.
- Assist in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.
Required Documents
- Cover letter briefly describing research experience and interests
- Curriculum vitae (CV) with full publication list
- Names and contact information for at least three references
- PhD completion date
Position Type
Research
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type:
108S
Expected Hiring Range:
$60,315.00 - $85,192.50
With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.
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Find Research Associate JobsResearch Associate Job Market in Boston
Who's Hiring
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals18

- PwC15

- Deloitte10

- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute9

- Zoox7

Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services52
- Technology & Software39
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals33
- Science & Research30
- Investment & Asset Management26
Research Associate Jobs in Boston: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a research associate job in Boston?
Focus your search on the Longwood Medical Area, Kendall Square, and the Seaport District, where Boston's life sciences, biotech, and clinical research employers are densest. Academic medical centers, pharmaceutical firms, and contract research organizations hire heavily year-round. Candidates with hands-on laboratory skills, familiarity with GLP or GCP protocols, and experience in a wet lab or clinical setting stand out in this market.
Which companies hire research associates in Boston?
Companies currently hiring research associates in Boston include Vertex Pharmaceuticals, PwC, and Deloitte, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Boston's employer mix leans heavily toward academic medical centers, biotechnology firms, and pharmaceutical companies, particularly those clustered in the Longwood Medical Area and around Kendall Square.
Are there remote research associate jobs in Boston?
Yes, but with limits: research associate roles that require wet lab work, specimen handling, or on-site clinical duties are almost exclusively in-person, while data analysis, literature review, and regulatory affairs-focused positions are more likely to offer flexibility. About 37% of research associate openings tied to Boston are remote or hybrid as of June 2026. Bioinformatics and health economics roles tend to be the most remote-friendly in this market.
How can I get a research associate job in Boston with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in Boston is a research assistant or lab technician role at one of the Longwood Medical Area hospitals or a Kendall Square biotech startup, where hands-on training is built into the position. Many candidates also come in through co-op programs at Boston-area universities or through temporary contract placements at contract research organizations. Strong academic coursework in biology, chemistry, or public health combined with any volunteer or internship lab hours gives applicants a meaningful edge locally.
Which industries hire the most research associates in Boston?
The sectors hiring the most research associates in Boston are Consulting & Professional Services, Technology & Software, and Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Boston's status as a global hub for academic medicine, drug development, and life sciences research drives sustained demand across all of these sectors year-round.
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