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Associate Research Associate Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$30 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $30.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$30 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $30.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$30 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $30.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$30 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $30.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $30.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Research Associate Location : Rockville, MD Type: 6+ month Contract Pay Range: $28.00 - $43.00/hr Hours: Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM Overview Biopharmaceutical Company is seeking a Research Associate ...

Research Associate EAB is the leading global provider of research and advice to higher education and K-12 institutions, working with more than 2,500 colleges, universities, and school districts in ...

The ideal Research Associate candidate should possess a basic understanding of the dynamic political climate and major policy issues in the U.S., as well as strong research and writing skills. If you ...

Research Associate EAB is the leading global provider of research and advice to higher education and K-12 institutions, working with more than 2,500 colleges, universities, and school districts in ...

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Associate Research Associate information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$11

$20

$33

How much do associate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate research associate in Ashburn, VA is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate research associate do?

An Associate Research Associate assists in conducting research by collecting data, analyzing results, and maintaining laboratory equipment or research documentation. They often work under the supervision of senior researchers or principal investigators, contributing to experiments or studies in their field. Their responsibilities may also include preparing reports, performing literature reviews, and ensuring compliance with research protocols. This role is common in academic, medical, or corporate research environments and requires strong analytical and organizational skills.

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

To thrive as an Associate Research Associate, you need a strong background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree such as biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and standard operating procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the accuracy, reliability, and clarity of research results, which are essential for advancing scientific projects and supporting team objectives.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for an associate research associate within a research team?

As an Associate Research Associate, you will frequently collaborate with senior researchers, principal investigators, and other team members to design experiments, collect and analyze data, and prepare reports or publications. This role often requires regular meetings to discuss progress, troubleshoot challenges, and share insights, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. Additionally, you may have the chance to contribute to cross-functional projects with other departments, such as data analysis or regulatory affairs, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of the research process.

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

AspectAssociate Research AssociateResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, relevant research experienceTypically Bachelor's degree, entry-level
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, universitiesLaboratories, fieldwork, academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, healthcare, academiaUniversities, research labs, academic projects
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for roles involving independent researchEntry-level support role in research projects

The main difference between an Associate Research Associate and a Research Assistant lies in experience, responsibilities, and qualifications. An Associate Research Associate typically has more research experience and may handle more complex tasks, whereas a Research Assistant is often an entry-level position supporting research activities. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Associate Research Associate usually requires a higher level of education and expertise.

Do I need a PhD to be an associate research associate?

Typically, a PhD is not required to become an associate research associate; a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field is often sufficient. Relevant skills, research experience, and familiarity with laboratory tools or data analysis software are also important for the role.

>> A-185272-26: Associate Research Scientist (PREP0004233)

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site


Johns Hopkins University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Associate Research Scientist (PREP0004233)

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and thus requires that such institutions be the recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.

Research Title

High speed metrology for magnetoelectronic devices and models: Research Associate

The work will entail:

This position focuses on developing film‑level optical methods of measuring the Heisenberg exchange parameter in thin films relevant to the magnetic random‑access memory (MRAM) industry. These measurements will be correlated with detailed measurements of device performance made on devices fabricated at NIST, and these correlations will be used to develop better models of device switching. In addition, the Associate will work on the development of electrical methods for estimating the attempt time of MRAM bit cells. In each of these projects the Associate will work closely with NIST staff, but the Associate must be self‑motivated in designing and executing measurements, developing robust data analysis methods with proper statistical validation, and reporting these results to the group and via publication. This is a fast‑paced, high‑impact, short‑term research position with a maximum duration of 12 months. Note that this is an in‑person position located in Boulder, CO.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, build, maintain, and use optical measurement systems based on inelastic light scattering.
  • Develop high speed electronic (microwave) measurements, including pulsed, harmonic, sampled and real‑time measurement methods using microwave sources, arbitrary waveform generators, and oscilloscopes.
  • Analyze heterogeneous data sources including optical spectra, read‑ and write‑error rate datastreams, real‑time and sampled high‑speed electronic traces.
  • Analyze temperature‑dependent magnetization data using advanced atomistic fitting models.
  • Fabricate magnetoelectronic devices using optical and electron‑beam lithography, reactive and physical ion etching methods.
  • Present results at internal meetings, and occasional meetings with external stakeholders.
  • Ensure that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.
Qualifications
  • A Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field. Several years of post‑degree experience in relevant areas preferred.
  • Experience with the design and fabrication of magnetic nanostructures, including magnetron sputter and e‑beam evaporative deposition or molecular beam epitaxy, electron‑beam and photo‑lithography.
  • Experience with characterization tools, including SQUID, Ferromagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, MOKE, X‑ray reflectometry, and secondary‑ion mass spectrometry.
  • Demonstrated experience with micromagnetic simulation tools, including MuMAX.
  • Demonstrated experience in temperature‑dependent magnetic simulations, in particular atomistic simulations of the temperature‑dependence of magnetization.
  • Experience developing novel data acquisition platforms to acquire DC and RF data at scale.
  • Familiarity with scripting languages, including Python, and their implementation on GPU clusters for data analysis.
  • Ability to develop tools needed to analyze large datasets using Python, MATLAB, or similar programming environments.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Track record of publishing in peer‑reviewed scientific journals.

Equal Opportunity Employer: NIST is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected class.

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About Johns Hopkins University

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Gilman believed that teaching and research go hand in hand—that success in one depends on success in the other—and that a modern university must do both well. He also believed that sharing our knowledge and discoveries would help make the world a better place. In 145 years, we haven’t strayed from that vision. This is still a destination for excellent, ambitious scholars and a world leader in teaching and research. Distinguished professors mentor students in the arts and music, humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering, international studies, education, business, and the health professions. Those same faculty members, along with their colleagues at the university’s Applied Physics Laboratory, have made us the nation’s leader in federal research and development funding every year since 1979. That’s a fitting distinction for America’s first research university, a place that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1876


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