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Assistant Research Associate Jobs in Massachusetts

SpearBio

Research Associate

Woburn, MA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Research Associate: We are seeking an experienced and talented Research Associate to join our Assay ... Execute immunoassay workflows with a focus on high-throughput, semi-automated platforms * Assist in ...

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA

$60K - $85K/yr

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will assist the supervisor in the interpretation and publication of results and grants. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will maintain the laboratory research ...

Stratevi

Senior Research Associate

Boston, MA

$95K/yr

In doing so, Senior Research Associates may draft research and/or statistical analysis plans, assist with questionnaire development, and conduct data analytics. * Within the Health Economics division ...

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Assistant Research Associate information

What is an assistant research associate?

Assistant Research Associates are entry- to mid-level professionals who support research activities in academic, scientific, or corporate settings. They assist in designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and maintaining laboratory equipment. Their role is crucial in ensuring that research projects run smoothly and adhere to protocols. Assistant Research Associates often work under the supervision of senior researchers or principal investigators, and their work contributes to advancements in their field.

What are the typical responsibilities of an assistant research associate?

As an Assistant Research Associate, you will often support senior researchers by conducting literature reviews, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing reports or presentations. You may be responsible for maintaining research databases, assisting with laboratory or field work, and ensuring compliance with project protocols. Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with other team members to coordinate tasks and troubleshoot challenges, while also having opportunities to contribute your own ideas and learn from more experienced colleagues.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Research Associate, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and compliance protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and organization skills help you collaborate and accurately report findings. These competencies are essential for supporting research goals, ensuring data integrity, and contributing to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Assistant Research Associate vs Research Assistant?

AspectAssistant Research AssociateResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, research experienceTypically Bachelor's degree, entry-level
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industryResearch labs, academic settings, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporationsUniversities, government agencies, labs
Common Search & ComparisonHigher level responsibilities, independent tasksSupportive role, data collection, basic analysis

The Assistant Research Associate typically holds more advanced education and research experience, performing more independent tasks. Research Assistants usually support research activities with less experience, focusing on data collection and basic analysis. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Assistant Research Associate often has greater responsibilities and qualifications.

Is it hard to get a job as an assistant research associate?

Securing an assistant research associate position typically requires a relevant master's or doctoral degree, research experience, and strong analytical skills. Competition can be moderate to high depending on the field and institution, and candidates often need to demonstrate proficiency with research tools and methodologies. Building a solid academic record and gaining research experience can improve chances of employment.

What qualifications do I need to be an Assistant Research Associate?

To become an Assistant Research Associate, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Some positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with research experience, strong analytical skills, and proficiency with research tools or software. Relevant certifications or laboratory skills can also be advantageous.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Associate jobs in Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Research Associate jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Assistant Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Assistant Research Associate job openings:

Assistant Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Research Associate job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate - Open Rank

Worcester, MA • On-site

University of Massachusetts Medical School
Education • 10K+ employees
Learn more about University of Massachusetts Medical Schoolexternal

$40K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate provides operational support to the laboratory. The Research Associate will perform research experiments as defined by the PI.
This is an open-rank posting (there are 4 levels of Research Associate) - candidates will be hired into the level commensurate with their experience.
The Keeler lab is in the department of genetic and cellular therapy and research focuses characterizing and modulating immune responses to gene therapy. Further we are developing potent CAR Treg based therapies for neurological and hepatic disorders and assessing immune response to gene editing based therapeutics delivered as AAV or LNPs.
The ideal candidate for this position would have a background in gene editing, immunology, virology, or biochemistry, an interest in a career in medical sciences, and experience working in a previous laboratory setting as well as animal handling experience or willingness to learn. Experimental day-to-day work will include working with animals and human samples, molecular cloning, and generation of LNPs and CAR Tregs.
This position is 100% grant funded position and employment will be subjected to funding availability.
Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Research Associate I:
  • Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project.
  • Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used.
  • Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps under the direction of the PI or designee.
  • Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee.
  • Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects.
  • Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
  • Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations.
  • Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice.
  • Present findings at lab/group meetings
  • Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted.
  • Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
  • Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards.
  • Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
  • Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements.
  • Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions.
  • Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Research Associate II:
Duties noted above plus:
  • May assist with the training of new lab personnel.
  • Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab.
  • May assist with drafting manuscript sessions.

Research Associate III:
Duties noted above plus:
  • Perform complex laboratory experiments and may be responsible for one or more independent research projects.
  • Perform in-depth data analysis and/or mathematical computations.
  • Compile and analyze data and present it in a format suitable for publication according to PI specifications.
  • May oversee laboratory supply levels and order as needed; negotiate with suppliers to optimize available resources.
  • Monitor laboratory equipment service contracts and monitor maintenance on laboratory equipment.
  • May manage general operations of the laboratory, including lab personnel, procedures, and projects.
  • May create new protocols and/or modify defined protocols, as necessary, and with the approval of the PI.
  • Prioritize and perform several tasks or procedures simultaneously with attention to detail.
  • Perform duties and experiments with independence.
  • Provide training of new lab personnel.
  • May monitor laboratory spending in accordance with budget guidelines provided by PI or designee.
  • May assist with budget and/or operational aspects of grant and contract funding.

Research Associate IV:
Duties noted above plus:
  • This position will contribute significantly to the management of the research program and will be involved in multiple aspects of the research projects and lab maintenance activities.
  • Independently design and perform multiple complex laboratory experiments.
  • Interpret data, form conclusions, and decide on next steps with a high degree of independence.
  • Maintain laboratory supply levels and order as noted.
  • Manage laboratory equipment service contracts and coordinate maintenance on laboratory equipment.
  • Monitor and enforce all safety regulations and infection control standards.
  • Identify and write standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
  • Train on IACUC, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
  • Manage daily operations of the laboratory, including lab personnel, procedures, and projects.
  • Identify problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions.
  • Develop and implement new protocols and/or modify defined protocols, as necessary, and with the approval of the PI
  • Mentor and train lab personnel on proper lab conduct and techniques.
  • Manage laboratory spending in accordance with budget guidelines provided by PI or designee.
  • Assist with budget and/or operational aspects of grant and contract proposals.
  • Negotiate with vendors to optimize available resources.
  • Contribute independently to writing sections for manuscripts and grants.
  • Direct the activities of research support staff.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Research Associate I
  • Bachelor's degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience
  • Basic understanding of lab safety and protocols
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
  • Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.

Research Associate II
  • Requirements noted for RA I plus:
  • 18 months of relevant research experience with a Bachelor's Degree in Biological or Natural Science or 0 years with a related Master's Degree.

Research Associate III
  • Requirements noted for RA I plus:
  • 3+ years of relevant research experience with a Bachelor's Degree in Biological or Natural Science or 1 year relevant research experience with a related Master's Degree

Research Associate IV
  • Requirements noted for RA I plus:
  • 5+ years of relevant research experience with a Bachelor's Degree in Biological or Natural Science or 3+ years relevant research experience with a related Master's degree.

Additional Information
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