1

Associate Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

At Murphy Research, we make difficult decisions easy. We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team. In this role, you will assist in the ...

At Murphy Research, we make difficult decisions easy. We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team. In this role, you will assist in the ...

Research Associate

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

At Murphy Research, we make difficult decisions easy. We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team. In this role, you will assist in the ...

Research Associate * Develop OEM in-vitro diagnostic controls and calibrators in areas such as Cardiac, Immunoassay, Urinalysis, Tumor Markers, Drug monitoring and Proteins. * Assist in the ...

About the Role We are looking for a highly hands-on Research Associate to join our team and support protein science and cell biology workflows on the Medra Physical AI platform. This is a role for ...

... associate work requires a lot of things that look like junior associate work Company : Harvey provides AI-driven tools to assist legal professionals with research, document review, and contract ...

AcuraStem is seeking a research associate to support our iNeuroRx disease modeling platform. This platform will be employed for target discovery/validation, biomarker evaluation and the construction ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Researcher information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$111.6K

$162.3K

How much do associate researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate researcher in California is $111,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for a research associate?

The highest salaries for research associates can reach around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, typically in specialized fields or with extensive experience and advanced degrees. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, with some senior or industry-specific roles exceeding this range.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Researcher, you need a strong background in scientific methodology, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in your field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (like SPSS or R), and research management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication help you collaborate and contribute meaningful insights to research projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing valid, reliable results and advancing the goals of research teams.

What does an associate researcher do?

An associate researcher supports research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and preparing reports. They often work under the supervision of senior researchers and may use tools like statistical software or laboratory equipment to assist in research activities.

What are some common challenges Associate Researchers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Associate Researchers often juggle several projects at once, which can be challenging in terms of time management and prioritization. Balancing deadlines, coordinating with various team members, and ensuring high-quality data collection and analysis requires strong organizational skills. Proactive communication with supervisors and collaborators is essential to manage expectations and address any bottlenecks early. Utilizing project management tools and regularly updating progress can help alleviate these challenges and keep research activities on track.

How much is a research associate paid?

Research associates typically earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced skills or in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are Associate Researchers?

Associate Researchers are professionals who assist in conducting scientific studies, experiments, or investigations in a specific field. They typically work under the supervision of a principal investigator or senior researcher, helping with data collection, analysis, and documentation. Their responsibilities can also include preparing laboratory materials, conducting literature reviews, and ensuring compliance with research protocols. Associate Researchers are often found in academic, government, or private sector research settings and may have a background in science, engineering, or social sciences.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A research associate position typically does not require a PhD; most roles require at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. However, some research roles or specialized projects may prefer or require a PhD or additional experience. Skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or specific tools can also be important for the role.

What is the difference between Associate Researcher vs Research Assistant?

AspectAssociate ResearcherResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, research experienceTypically Bachelor's degree, entry-level
Work EnvironmentIndependent research, data analysis, project managementSupporting research tasks, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, labs, research projects

The main difference between an Associate Researcher and a Research Assistant lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Researchers usually have more research experience, handle independent tasks, and contribute to project design, while Research Assistants support data collection and basic tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Associate Researchers typically have higher qualifications and more autonomy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in California? The most popular types of Researcher jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Researcher jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Researcher job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Researcher job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.
Scientist/Senior Research Associate

Scientist/Senior Research Associate

CareDx, Inc.

Brisbane, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Company Description
CareDx, Inc., based in Brisbane, California, is a molecular diagnostics company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of clinically differentiated, high-value, non-invasive diagnostic surveillance solutions for transplant recipients. The Company has commercialized AlloMapยฎ, a gene expression test that aids clinicians in identifying heart transplant recipients with stable graft function who have a low probability of moderate/severe acute cellular rejection. CareDx is also pursuing the development of additional products for post-transplant monitoring of other solid organs that use a variety of technologies, including next-generation sequencing, to detect donor-derived cell-free DNA to monitor the health of organs after transplantation. For more information, please visit: www.CareDx.com.
Job Description
Specifications
Title: Scientist or Senior Research Associate
Manager: Associate Director, R&D
FLSA: Exempt
Classification: Regular full Time
Department: Research & Development
Location: Brisbane (HQ)
Management: n/a
General Description
We are seeking a highly motivated, critical, and creative Scientist or Senior Research Associate to join the CareDx R&D group. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a growing, dynamic, and collaborative R&D team innovating cutting-edge technology. The new team member will participate in CareDx research activities with the goal of developing novel cell-free DNA-based tests that address critical clinical unmet needs for transplant patients.
Responsibilities as follows, but not necessarily limited to:
โ€ข Lead cell-free DNA projects to create and develop novel nucleic acid analysis technologies and diagnostic tests for transplant recipients
โ€ข Plan and efficiently execute complex laboratory experiments with excellent attention to detail
โ€ข Analyze data in close collaboration with biostatistics and bioinformatics teams
โ€ข Contribute insight toward experimental design and interpretation as well as troubleshoot laboratory processes and protocols
โ€ข Keep a detailed laboratory notebook and summarize work in research reports and manuscripts
โ€ข Interface with staff in multiple departments and clearly communicate results with colleagues and R&D management
โ€ข Support lab efforts to develop technologies, reagents, and controls necessary for the next generation of CareDx services
Work Environment:
An employee in this position may work in an environment, or visits facilities, in which safety, environmental and health concerns may demand constant attention. Adherence to the Corporate and/or Plant policies, rules, and regulations in these areas is required.
Travel:
Travel is not a primary aspect of this position although travel may be requested from time to time.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers, handle or feel, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit, stand and walk. There will be periods of time during the workday where you will be sitting for 3-4 hours in a row. Regular use of hands to operate office equipment and type on the keyboard will be required. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus.
CareDx is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Qualifications
โ€ข Ph.D. in molecular biology or a related discipline or M.S. with more than 4 years of relevant experience
โ€ข Strong background in nucleic acid biochemistry and PCR (qPCR, multiplex PCR, and/or digital PCR)
โ€ข Experience with library preparation for next generation sequencing and evaluation of results
โ€ข Ability to quickly learn new technologies and incorporate them into your research
โ€ข Strong grasp of quantitative analysis with a fundamental understanding of statistics
โ€ข Excellent record keeping and the ability to efficiently work with large data sets
โ€ข Interest in being part of a vibrant team setting
โ€ข Industry experience in biotechnology, diagnostics, or life sciences strongly preferred
Additional Information
Benefits & Perks:We provide Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance, Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Accounts, Commuter Accounts, 401(k), 3 weeks of vacation, 5 days sick leave, 1 personal floating holiday, 9 paid holidays, gym reimbursement, yoga onsite, ping pong, foosball, BBQ's, social hours, and more!