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Chemistry Research Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the team. The candidate will be responsible for ... Bachelor's in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering or related ...

Research Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the team. The candidate will be responsible for ... chemistry and analytical testing by implementing strategies and optimizing chemical reactions ...

Research Associate I/II

Boulder, CO · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; 0+ years experience Research Associate II: Bachelor's degree with 2+ years experience or Master's with 0+ years Salary Range: Research ...

Research Associate I/II

Boulder, CO · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; 0+ years experience Research Associate II: Bachelor's degree with 2+ years experience or Master's with 0+ years Salary Range: Research ...

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Chemistry Research Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$17

$34

$49

How much do chemistry research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemistry research associate in Colorado is $34.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.55 and $38.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chemistry research associate do?

A Chemistry Research Associate supports scientific research projects in chemistry by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and preparing reports. They work under the supervision of senior scientists, often in academic, government, or industrial laboratories. Their responsibilities typically include maintaining laboratory equipment, preparing chemical solutions, and ensuring experiments follow safety protocols. They may also assist in designing experiments and contribute to scientific publications. Overall, Chemistry Research Associates play a crucial role in advancing research and development in the field of chemistry.

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

To thrive as a Chemistry Research Associate, you need a solid background in chemistry, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in chemistry or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as HPLC, GC-MS, NMR, and proficiency with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that set top candidates apart. These skills ensure the accurate conduct of experiments, reliable data interpretation, and successful collaboration within research teams.

What are some common challenges chemistry research associates face when working on collaborative research projects?

Chemistry Research Associates often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as aligning experimental goals, coordinating schedules, and effectively communicating complex data to colleagues from different backgrounds. Adapting to diverse research methodologies and integrating findings into a cohesive project are also frequent hurdles. However, these collaborations provide valuable opportunities to broaden your scientific expertise and develop strong teamwork skills, which are highly regarded in both academia and industry.

What is the difference between Chemistry Research Associate vs Chemist?

AspectChemistry Research AssociateChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry or related fieldBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic or industry settingsLaboratories, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical, biotech, academiaPharmaceutical companies, chemical manufacturing, R&D labs

The main difference between a Chemistry Research Associate and a Chemist lies in their roles and experience levels. Research Associates typically support research projects, perform experiments, and assist senior scientists, often with a focus on research support. Chemists may have broader responsibilities, including designing experiments, analyzing data, and developing products. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Chemists often have more experience or advanced degrees, enabling them to take on more independent tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Chemistry Research Associate jobs in Colorado?

For Chemistry Research Associate jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Chemistry Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Chemistry Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemistry Research Associate job openings in Colorado as of August 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, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,172 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Research Associates I, II, III, IV and Senior - Department of Chemistry Open Pool

Fort Collins, CO • On-site


Colorado State University
Education • 5 - 10K employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

467th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Recommended by students

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$30K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Job DescriptionPosition Summary

The Department of Chemistry at Colorado State University seeks applications for temporary or special Research Associate I, II, III, IV or Senior positions in the areas of analytical, biological, chemistry education, inorganic, materials, organic, or physical chemistry.

Research Associates work under the direction of individual faculty members and contribute to ongoing research activities specific to each lab. Duties, funding source, appointment length, and work modality (in-person, hybrid, or remote) vary by faculty lab.

A detailed description of the department and information on specific faculty research programs within the department are available on the department website at:https://www.chem.colostate.edu/

Work Unit Description

The Department of Chemistry has an international reputation for excellence in research across a broad array of disciplines, including analytical, biological, inorganic, organic, materials and physical chemistry. Ph.D. graduates receive world-class training, participate in cutting-edge (and often interdisciplinary) research projects, and are employed at all levels of academia and industry around the globe. The faculty also enjoy an award-winning reputation for teaching excellence. Undergraduate students benefit both from access to this classroom expertise and from a long tradition of substantive undergraduate participation in research. The Department's research efforts are supported by a state-of-the-art Analytical Resources Core that provides 24/7 student access to shared instrumentation.

Salary Range

$30,000 - $55,000

Essential Job Duties

Essential job duties vary depending on the hiring laboratory and research program, but may include:

  • Conducting laboratory or computational research activities.

  • Collecting, managing, and analyzing research data.

  • Assisting with experimental design and protocol implementation.

  • Maintaining laboratory equipment, materials, and documentation.

  • Contributing to manuscripts, reports, and presentations.

  • Collaborating with faculty, staff, graduate students, and other research personnel.

Specific duties will be defined at the time of hire by the supervising faculty member.

Conditions of Employment

Pre-employment criminal background check (required for new hires).

Supervision

This position reports to a faculty member within the Department of Chemistry. Day-to-day supervision and expectations are defined by the hiring laboratory.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in an appropriate discipline.

  • Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U. S. A. by the proposed start date,andfor the full dates of the appointment.

  • The Department of Chemistry does not guarantee financial visa support for hires from this pool.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred qualifications vary by laboratory and may include:

  • Prior research experience in a relevant physical science discipline

  • Experience with laboratory or computational research methods

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment

  • Experience with data analysis, scientific writing, or specialized research techniques relevant to the hiring lab

Application Instructions

Interested individuals must submit in pdf format:

  • A current resume;

  • A statement of research interests

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59 PM (MT) on December 31, 2026. This is an open pool posting. Applications will be reviewed as hiring needs arise, and qualified applicants will be contacted if a suitable opportunity becomes available. This pool will expire on December 31, 2026. Applicants wishing to be considered beyond this date must reapply.

Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance,CSUis where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

  • Review our detailed benefits information here.

  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.

  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.

  • Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations,CSUconducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.


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About Colorado State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

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Fort Collins, CO, US

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