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Associate Researcher Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

NorthEastern

Associate Research Scientist

Boston, MA

$67K - $95K/yr

About the Opportunity JOB SUMMARY The Antibiotic Discovery Center (ADC) is seeking an experienced Associate Research Scientist to lead and expand efforts in natural product-based antibiotic discovery.

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All JobsAssociate Researcher JobsAssociate Researcher Jobs in Boston, MA

Associate Researcher information

See Boston, MA salary details

$32.6K

$122.9K

$178.7K

How much do associate researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate researcher in Boston, MA is $122,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,800.00 and $167,300.00 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Associate Researcher jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Associate Researcher job openings:
Associate Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Researcher job openings in Boston, MA 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 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,867 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Cyber Resilience and Operations Associate Researcher

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Lexington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is seeking a Cyber Resilience and Operations Associate Researcher to help defend the nation in cyberspace. The role involves performing analysis, developing technology, and building software for operational cyber security systems while collaborating with a skilled research team.
Responsibilities:
• Quantifying risk posed by adversary cyber threats to key national security missions
• Enhancing the cyber security and resilience of critical infrastructure and other operational technology
• Protecting and defending U.S. weapon systems in cyber contested environments
• Helping the nation’s cyber operators do their jobs better, faster, and at greater scale
• Creating game-changing capabilities for defensive cyberspace operations
Qualifications:
Required:
• A Master’s degree, or a Bachelor’s degree with 3-5 years of experience in Computer Science, Computer Security, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Data Science, Mathematics, or related field
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively on difficult, open-ended problems in cyber security and defense with interdisciplinary technical teams
• Motivation to identify underlying technical problems and proactively pursue viable solutions
• Experience in modern programming languages such as Python, Rust, or Java
• Experience in modern software engineering practices such as agile and DevSecOps
• Solid grasp of core cybersecurity concepts (threat modeling, secure software development, network/host defense, etc..)
• Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret level DoD security clearance.
Preferred:
• Experience with applying AI to engineering or research workflows—either as a research tool or as an augmentation to routine engineering tasks
• Hands-on experience developing or deploying systems that use generative and/or agentic AI
• Understanding of container technologies and usage of modern software architectures
• Familiarity with Zero Trust security principles and design
• Understanding of cloud services and platforms
• UI development experience
• Academic or professional research experience and/or publication in the areas of computer security or defensive cyberspace operations
Company:
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a federally funded research and development center chartered to apply advanced technology to problems of national security. Founded in 1951, the company is headquartered in Lexington, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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