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Assistant Research Associate Jobs in Portland, ME

R&D Associate Scientist

Saco, ME ยท On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

The R&D Associate Scientist will be responsible for maintaining lab inventory, ordering and ... Maintain and stock inventory supplies, assist in the washing of laboratory glassware, and in the ...

Counter Sales Associate

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Order Processing & Problem-Solving - Research inventory availability using computer databases ... Showroom & Inventory Management - Maintain organized displays, assist warehouse staff, and ...

Regulatory Affairs Associate Location: South Portland, ME Duration: 12 Months Shifts: 8AM TO 4:30PM ... Conduct research on submission requirements and options; Assist in monitoring and reporting project ...

... not limited to; research and data gathering in support of meeting topics, organizing the ... Associate's Degree preferred * Experience: * 5+ years of Executive Administrative Assistant ...

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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.
Infographic showing various Assistant Research Associate job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Type Professional Staff Faculty Track Position Title Research Administrator, COM Employment Status Full Time Months 12 Campus Both ME Campuses Description
The College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM) is looking for a Research Administrator to coordinate and carry out a variety of administrative functions associated with the daily operations of defined research areas at COM, including compliance with internal and external contract policies, collaborating with key administrative offices supporting research at UNE, and streamlining and supporting administrative and financial procedures for faculty and laboratory personnel.
This position provides budgetary and fiscal support for the grant active Principal Investigators (PIs) in the COM. The position also provides support to Associate Dean of Research and Scholarship, the COM Director of Finance & Administration, and COM Dean/VP of Health Affairs in the administration of research-related operating budgets and dissemination of information to maximize faculty research productivity and COM student engagement in research at all levels, working closely with the Office of Sponsored Programs and Associate Provost for Research.
About The University of New England
UNE is Maine's largest private university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study-abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of flexible online offerings. In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to positively impact a world full of challenges. We are the state's top provider of health professionals and home to Maine's only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care programs, and nationally recognized programs in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts.
Benefits Overview
  • Multiple health and dental plan options, plus vision coverage.
  • Up to 8% retirement plan match.
  • Generous leave time, including vacation, sick, and personal time, and 12+ holidays per year.
  • Educational benefits:
    • UNE tuition waiver for employees, spouses, and domestic partners
For more information about our outstanding benefits, please visit: UNE Benefits Overview
Responsibilities
  • In collaboration with the COM Associate Dean of Research and Scholarship, act as a liaison with the Office of Research and Innovation and affiliated teams to enable faculty directed research, enhance engagement of medical students in research to ensure compliance with College, COCA, IRB, IACUC, and granting agency fiscal and compliance policies.
  • Support increased research productivity (streamline lab setups, support efforts to increase grant submissions).
  • Develop a clear, consistent operating procedure to communicate and advise COM faculty on internal and grant-related contractual compliance policies and expectations.
  • Provide budgetary and financial support to COM PI Faculty and professional staff including:
    • Provide budget oversight and transaction histories, and assist in the management of grant expenditures for external grants and internal grant/fellowship funds.
    • Track and reconcile grant budget lines
    • Compile data and evaluate spending patterns throughout the grant cycle
    • Track grant records that require COM Dean's approval.
    • Process and track grant-related Approvals to Travel and Travel Expense Vouchers
    • Reconcile grant-related purchase cards.
    • Coordinate with the ORIC, OSP, COM Director F&A for grant-related Request for Contracts,
    • Serve as liaison between faculty, staff, and other key University personnel to process special grant-related requests.
  • Work closely with the Grants Accounting and Compliance Manager to monitor post-award budget processes and advise faculty regarding the drawdown of internal and external accounts.
  • Work closely with Research Center Shared Resource Directors and the Office of Research and Innovation to monitor and verify the fiscal aspects of shared resource use.
  • Initiate new hire paperwork and assist with onboarding professional, temp, and student employees for research labs; streamline onboarding and off-boarding procedures for new hired and departing faculty and lab personnel.
  • Monitor internal and external funding opportunities to create and maintain a monthly communication to increase the overall number of grants submitted by COM faculty.
  • Develop and maintain a database of internal and external grant submissions, determine "hit rate" and work closely with the Dean and Associate Dean of Research and Scholarship to increase the funding base with a focus on medical student engagement.
  • Conduct orientations on the physical space, building, and laboratory layouts, and facilitate access to Share Resources and facilities.
  • Coordinate with and act as COM monitor for the department of Environmental Health and Safety to ensure that research operations are conducted in compliance with site-specific procedures and all applicable institutional, state, and federal regulations.
  • Perform other specialized/technical tasks as needed.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree required; Master's preferred in a related field (research administration, science, or business).
  • 3-5 years' experience in research administration, grant management, or compliance.
  • Knowledge of federal and institutional compliance requirements (IRB, IACUC, COCA, NIH/NSF policies).
  • Experience with pre- and post-award grant processes, budget development, and financial reconciliation.
  • Ability to interpret and apply complex regulatory, fiscal, and contractual policies.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to compile, track, and evaluate financial and grant-related data.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for liaison work with faculty, staff, and central research units.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, coordinate timelines, and develop consistent processes.
  • Familiarity with laboratory environments and research operations; experience supporting research onboarding preferred.
  • Proficiency with spreadsheets, databases, and grant management or financial tracking systems.
EEO Statement Summary
Consistent with federal and state law and University policy, the University of New England is committed to the fundamental concept of equal opportunity for all of the members of the University community. The University prohibits, and will not tolerate, discrimination in employment, the provision of academic services or in any other area of University life based on race, color, sex, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, ethnicity, genetic information, HIV status, or status as a veteran. Prohibited bias factors should not motivate decisions regarding students, employees, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, contractors, volunteers or participants in and/or users of institutional programs, services, and activities.
Vaccination Statement (PLEASE NOTE)
Employees in clinical settings must meet the State of Maine's immunization requirements for clinical activity.
Additional Note
This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.
Anticipated Pay Range $70,000 - $75,000
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number 2022PS0899P Open Date 06/02/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes