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Academic Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Associate

Chapel Hill, NC · Hybrid

Posting Information Department KFBS Academic-330100 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open ... The Research Associate will also work closely with and/or under the supervision of the research ...

AltPep Corp.

Research Associate

Seattle, WA · On-site

$81K - $95K/yr

About this Role We are seeking a Research Associate with hands on bench experience and a strong academic background in areas such as chemistry, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry and cell-based ...

CEDENT

Senior Research Associate In Vivo

Pasadena, CA · On-site

The Senior Research Associate will work closely with client scientists, executing and refining ... academic research experience. * Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... You've made the decision not to pursue a career in academic research. Instead, you're eager to ...

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How much do academic research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for academic research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic research associate?

Academic Research Associates are professionals who support research projects within universities or other educational institutions. Their responsibilities typically include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with the preparation of papers, presentations, and grant applications. They often work under the supervision of principal investigators or faculty members. This role is critical in advancing knowledge within a specific field and often serves as a stepping stone for those pursuing academic or research-focused careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic research associate?

To thrive as an Academic Research Associate, you need strong analytical skills, research methodology expertise, and a relevant degree (often a master's or PhD in a related field). Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), academic databases, and citation management tools is typically required. Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top candidates. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality research, interpreting data accurately, and contributing effectively to academic projects.

What are some common challenges academic research associates face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Academic Research Associates often juggle several research projects at once, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Balancing data collection, literature reviews, and collaboration with faculty or external partners requires strong organizational skills and adaptability. It’s common to encounter competing deadlines, so effective communication with supervisors and team members is key to ensuring projects stay on track. Utilizing project management tools and regular check-ins can help manage workload and maintain high-quality research outcomes.

What is the difference between Academic Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectAcademic Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fieldMaster's or PhD in related discipline
Work EnvironmentUniversities, academic labs, research institutionsResearch labs, industry R&D departments
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia and educational institutionsIndustry, government agencies, private sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Academic Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in their work environment and typical employer. Academic Research Associates usually work within universities or academic institutions focusing on educational research, while Research Scientists are often employed in industry or government labs working on applied research and product development. Both roles require strong research skills and relevant degrees, but their career paths and daily tasks differ based on their organizational setting.

Is an academic research associate a good career?

An academic research associate is a research-focused role that involves supporting faculty or principal investigators in conducting studies, analyzing data, and preparing reports. It can be a good career for those interested in academia, research methods, and scientific inquiry, often requiring strong analytical skills and familiarity with research tools. Career advancement may include transitioning to senior research roles or pursuing further education such as a Ph.D.

What cities are hiring for Academic Research Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Academic Research Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Research jobs?

The most popular types of Academic Research jobs are:

What states have the most Academic Research Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Academic Research Associate jobs include:

Academic Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Research Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Research Associate

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

314th of 625 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Department KFBS Academic-330100 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open Date 08/17/2026 Application Deadline 08/31/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF) Working Title Research Associate Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty Position Number 20043478 Vacancy ID NF0009959 Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent FTE 1 Hours per week 40 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $62,115 - $65,000 Proposed Start Date 09/21/2026
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
At UNC's Kenan-Flagler Business School, we think differently; and more importantly, we teach differently. Opening our doors as the Department of Commerce in 1919 and awarding our first degrees to 12 students in 1921 was the beginning. Today, we have become a top-ranked business school comprised of several professional and academic degree programs that serve over 3,000 students. At Kenan-Flagler, our greatest assets are our people and our culture. We are rooted in our core values of integrity, inclusion, innovation and impact, and it goes back to our founding. It's not just something on paper, we live it, we show it. Our mission is to prepare the next generation of business leaders by providing a world class education to our students. We seek to recruit diverse, innovative, and exceptional talent to achieve this goal..
Position Summary
This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement that may include a partially remote work location, consistent with System Office policy. UNC Chapel Hill employees are generally required to reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned duty station.
The Institute for Private Capital (IPC), part of UNC's Kenan-Flagler Business School, seeks a Research Associate to assist with data and research tasks in the field of financial economics, specifically, private capital markets including venture capital, private equity, private credit, hedge funds and real asset investments.
IPC's mission is to promote a deep understanding of the role of private capital markets in the global economy. IPC brings together academic and industry experts who work together to generate new knowledge about private capital markets based on objective academic research. Findings are disseminated through academic publications, research symposia and education outreach. Central to the institute's mission is creating new data resources which can be utilized by academic researchers. This effort fills a significant gap in the knowledge base of financial economics. For more information on IPC please visit: uncipc.org
The Research Associate will work with finance faculty from Kenan-Flagler and other leading business schools on high-impact research projects. The Research Associate will also work closely with and/or under the supervision of the research staff at IPC on both on-going data projects as well as specific ad hoc initiatives.
The Research Associate will support a wide variety of research-related tasks including (but not limited to) literature reviews; market and company research; data acquisition, cleaning, and econometric analysis; qualitative and quantitative data collection; data visualizations; and database administration support
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
-IPC has developed and continues to maintain several data and information tools, including databases covering private equity, hedge fund and real estate fund performance. This position requires a working knowledge of research principles, data entry and analysis, including the ability to follow standard research protocols and apply statistical techniques and formulas to collected data. 
-Proficiency in Microsoft office suite, especially Excel.
-Organizational skills necessary to compile, order, and summarize data. 
-Candidates must possess strong oral and written communication skills
-The ability to multitask and work effectively in teams.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
-A master's degree is preferred. Recommended majors include Economics, Finance, Business, Public Policy, Public Administration, Computer Science, Information Science, Mathematics or related. However, there are many technical fields that will lend themselves for this opportunity, such as those in the sciences. 
-Experience with various data analysis and visualization tools (including but not limited to SQL, STATA, SAS, R, tableau, ArcGIS, python) is recommended but not required.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Must be able to work at a computer for most of the day.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
Additionally, this position is only open to United States citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/324065
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Mayra Reyes Department Contact Telephone or Email mayra_reyes@kenan-flagler.unc.edu Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789

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