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Associate Scientist Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Mayo Clinic

Nurse Scientist

Rochester, MN

Mayo Clinic nurse scientists conduct clinically based research to improve the health and well-being of patients and their caregivers across the life span. At Mayo Clinic, you will be part of an ...

Mayo Clinic

Nurse Scientist

Rochester, MN

$117K - $367K/yr

Nurse scientists engage with Mayo Clinic physicians and scientists from a variety of disciplines as well as with those external to Mayo Clinic to generate knowledge in fields that span the continuum ...

Mayo Clinic

Nurse Scientist

Rochester, MN · On-site

Mayo Clinic nurse scientists conduct clinically based research to improve the health and well-being of patients and their caregivers across the life span. At Mayo Clinic, you will be part of an ...

Mayo Clinic

Nurse Scientist

Rochester, MN

Mayo Clinic nurse scientists conduct clinically based research to improve the health and well-being of patients and their caregivers across the life span. At Mayo Clinic, you will be part of an ...

Stantec

Lead Wetland Scientist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$73K - $105K/yr

Join a team that has the environment down to a science. Your Opportunity Join a collaborative team focused on ecology and wetland sciences. Work includes wetland delineation, ecological assessments ...

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All JobsAssociate Scientist JobsAssociate Scientist Jobs in Rochester, MN

Associate Scientist information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$19

$36

$58

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in Rochester, MN is $36.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.37 and $41.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I use my Associates in science degree for?

An Associate Scientist with a science degree can work in laboratories, research facilities, or quality control environments, performing experiments, data analysis, and sample testing. The degree provides foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, or related fields and often requires familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

Is an associate scientist entry level?

An associate scientist position is often considered an entry-level or early-career role in research and development, typically requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. It involves performing experiments, data analysis, and supporting scientific projects, with opportunities for skill development and advancement. However, some organizations may require prior experience or specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

What degree do you need to be an associate scientist?

An associate scientist typically holds at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What are some common challenges an Associate Scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What does an Associate Scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What Is an Associate Scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

What is the role of an associate scientist?

An associate scientist conducts research, experiments, and data analysis to support scientific projects within a laboratory or research environment. They often assist senior scientists, follow established protocols, and use laboratory tools and techniques to gather and interpret data. This role typically requires a relevant degree in a scientific field and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

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

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.
More about Associate Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in Rochester, MN? For Associate Scientist jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Scientist jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Scientist jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Associate Scientist job openings:
Associate Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Scientist job openings in Rochester, MN 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 $75,956 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Nurse Scientist

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 692 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Mayo Clinic nurse scientists conduct clinically based research to improve the health and well-being of patients and their caregivers across the life span.  At Mayo Clinic, you will be part of an amazing team committed to solving the most serious and complex health care challenges - one patient at a time. Nurse scientists engage with Mayo Clinic physicians and scientists from a variety of disciplines as well as with those external to Mayo Clinic to generate knowledge in fields that span the continuum of care. Mayo Clinic nurse scientists focus on generating symptom science, self-management science, and caregiving science to improve the health and well-being of individuals with complex conditions. Mayo Clinic nurse scientists are expected to maintain a focused program of research supported by competitive extramural federal/foundation funding sources as well as competitive intramural funding with evidence of a robust publication record in leading peer-reviewed journals in the field.  

With an 83,000-person workforce, Mayo Clinic cares for more than 1.4 million people each year with serious or complex illnesses from all 50 U.S. states and 135 countries. Mayo Clinic is the largest not-for-profit, multidisciplinary academic medical center in the world with over 4,000 physicians and scientists in an integrated multi-campus system spanning the globe. The unified mission at Mayo Clinic is to provide the best patient care, backed by our expertise and supported by innovation in education, research and practice, to bring hope and healing in times of need. We embrace collegial relationships among campuses allowing for best practices and innovation to help solve the most serious complex medical challenges-one patient at a time. 

We support a vibrant and diverse research enterprise, with programs in basic, translational, clinical, population, and data sciences. In 2025, the institution received over $782 million in extramural research awards, supplemented with over $539 million of institutional support. Laboratories and shared resource facilities are state-of-the-art, including those for biomolecular analysis, molecular development, data analytics, specimen processing, and structural testing and imaging. Mayo Clinic supports innovation and has a wealth of resources available - including an integrated electronic health record and collaboration with top specialists.

Rochester, Minnesota, a dynamic city just 75 minutes south of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, offers an unparalleled blend of professional opportunity and high quality of life. With ongoing investment through the Destination Medical Center initiative, Rochester continues to transform as a hub for healthcare, technology, and education, driven by visionary growth and innovation. 

Rochester is distinguished by its culture of caring, scenic beauty, and relaxing pace, with abundant dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Residents enjoy over 100 parks, miles of trails, and year-round cultural events, all within a safe, welcoming community. The city is consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S., recognized for its safety, excellent schools, and affordable housing. With a strong arts presence and diverse culinary scene, Rochester is an ideal place to live, work, and thrive.

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law".  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Qualifications: 
Candidates must have a PhD, be licensed/eligible to be licensed as a registered nurse in Minnesota and have completed post-doctoral fellowship training if early career. Mid- and senior career candidates without formal post-doctoral training will be considered on an individual basis. Candidates must also have a track record of scholarly productivity with evidence of grant funding. 

Applications:
Applications should include a CV with Bibliography, Cover Letter, Statement of Research Interests, and contact information of three professional references.
 

What Mayo Clinic employees say

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919

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