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Associate Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DivIHN

Associate Research Scientist III

Deerfield, IL · On-site

Associate Research Scientist III Location: Deerfield, IL Duration: 12 Months Only W2 candidates are eligible for this position. Third-party or C2C candidates will not be considered. Effectively ...

Jobtailor

Litigation Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

Join Gould & Ratner LLP's Litigation Practice as a Mid-Level Associate Research and write legal memoranda Draft complaints, motions, and written discovery Respond to discovery, including handling e ...

Univerisity of Chicago

Research Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Job Summary: The Research Associate will work, in partnership with Co-Director Suskind and Senior Research Associate Pernaudet, to design and execute TMW Center research projects. Core ...

Univerisity of Chicago

Research Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Job Summary: The Research Associate will work, in partnership with Co-Director Suskind and Senior Research Associate Pernaudet, to design and execute TMW Center research projects. Core ...

Mather Headquarters

Research Associate

Evanston, IL · On-site

$68K - $74K/yr

The Research Associate position contributes to the successful execution of applied research and internal survey initiatives focused on health and wellbeing, wellness technology, and resident and team ...

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All JobsAssociate Researcher JobsAssociate Researcher Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Researcher information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$116.6K

$169.6K

How much do associate researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate researcher in Chicago, IL is $116,603.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $158,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate researcher?

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.

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

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 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.

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Researcher jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Researcher job openings:

Associate Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Researcher job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,511 per year, or $56 per hour.

Research Associate at BiomeSense Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL • On-site

Dan Cummins Ford Lincoln
See more jobs at Dan Cummins Ford Lincolnexternal

$60K - $85K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Research Associate – R&D

Location: Chicago, IL (in-person)

Compensation: $60K – $85K salary + 0.1% - 0.2% equity + benefits

BiomeSense is a start‑up revolutionizing human gut microbiome sampling and analysis, driving discovery, and enabling the development of microbiome‑based precision medicine. Our innovative approach integrates two core advancements: hardware that facilitates daily microbiome sampling as a routine exercise, and AI‑driven analytics to unlock novel datasets for biomarker discovery.

We are seeking a Research Associate to join our Research and Development team. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical skills and collaborative spirit in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment. As part of our scientific team, you will help advance our automated sample processing workflows, supporting the foundation of our sample‑to‑answer multi‑omic platform technology.

Key Responsibilities
  • Laboratory Execution & Technical Support: Execute and optimize microbiology protocols supporting nucleic acid extraction, PCR, next‑generation sequencing (NGS), in a high‑throughput laboratory environment.
  • Collaborate closely with engineers, scientists, and product teams to validate and integrate novel systems for microbial DNA stabilization, extraction, and purification.
  • Coordinate and execute the processing of large quantities of partner samples, maintaining a strong focus on accuracy and efficiency.
  • Design and conduct experiments to retire technical risks or optimize laboratory protocols, contributing to ongoing process improvements and product innovation.
Quality & Communication
  • Maintain rigorous documentation practices and adhere to established quality management systems (e.g., GLP, design controls).
  • Effectively communicate experimental results and technical observations to cross‑functional project teams, supporting the rapid advancement of platform technologies.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree + 3 years’, or Master’s degree + 2 years’ in biological sciences, bioengineering, or a related field.
  • Hands‑on experience with core microbiology techniques, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and NGS sample preparation.
  • Highly organized, proactive, and able to thrive in a collaborative, fast‑paced setting.
  • Strong communication skills for clear reporting and knowledge‑sharing with scientific and technical stakeholders.
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