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Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

HS Research Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Gurdeep Singh's research team at theUniversity of New Mexico School of Medicine as Research Assistant. Dr. Singh's lab focuseson decoding the epigenetic basis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD ...

HS Research Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Gurdeep Singh's research team at theUniversity of New Mexico School of Medicine as a Research Assistant. Dr. Singh's lab focuseson decoding the epigenetic basis of age-related macular degeneration ...

Showing results 21-40

Clinical Research Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$7

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$43

How much do clinical research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $21.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $24.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical research assistant?

Clinical Research Assistants are professionals who support clinical research studies by performing a range of administrative and research-related tasks. They help collect and manage data, assist with patient recruitment, prepare study materials, and ensure compliance with research protocols and regulations. Their work is crucial in advancing medical knowledge and ensuring that clinical trials run smoothly and ethically. Clinical Research Assistants often work under the supervision of principal investigators or clinical research coordinators in hospitals, universities, or pharmaceutical companies.

What does a clinical research assistant do?

A clinical research assistant—or clinical research associate (CRA)—helps lead researchers during clinical trials for new drugs and medical devices. As a clinical research assistant, your responsibilities include preparing the laboratory, processing volunteers, taking biological samples or vital signs, and organizing data. You may also be required to set up and clean work areas. Your job is to assist the researchers in any way possible, helping them conduct sound, ethical, and scientifically accurate research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical research assistant?

To thrive as a Clinical Research Assistant, you need a bachelor’s degree in a life science or health-related field, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills. Familiarity with clinical trial management systems (CTMS), electronic data capture (EDC) tools, and good clinical practice (GCP) certification are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in coordinating with research teams and participants. These skills ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and the smooth execution of clinical studies.

What are some common challenges clinical research assistants face when coordinating multiple studies simultaneously?

Clinical Research Assistants often manage several studies at once, which can lead to challenges in balancing competing deadlines, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring compliance with complex protocols. Effective time management and organizational skills are crucial to handle overlapping tasks such as scheduling patient visits, collecting data, and preparing regulatory submissions. Collaborating closely with principal investigators, coordinators, and other team members helps distribute the workload and maintain research quality. Developing strong communication habits and utilizing digital tracking tools can further streamline workflow and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Assistant vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectClinical Research AssistantClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in health sciences or related field; certifications like CCRP are a plusRequires a bachelor's degree; certifications such as CCRP or CCRC are common
Work EnvironmentAssists in data collection, patient scheduling, and administrative tasks in clinical trial settingsManages study protocols, patient recruitment, and regulatory compliance in clinical trial sites
Employer & IndustryHospitals, research institutions, pharmaceutical companiesHospitals, research centers, pharmaceutical companies

Both roles support clinical research but differ in responsibilities. Clinical Research Assistants focus on data collection and administrative tasks, while Clinical Research Coordinators oversee study management and patient interactions. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Can you be a clinical research assistant with no experience?

Clinical research assistant positions often require some knowledge of medical terminology and data management, but many entry-level roles are available for candidates without prior experience. Employers may provide on-the-job training and look for strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow protocols. Certifications such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP) can enhance prospects for those new to the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What job categories do people searching Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Clinical Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Clinical Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Research Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,435 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

HS Research Assistant

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$16.88 - $21.14/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


University Of New Mexico rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

HS Research Assistant
Requisition ID
req37039
Working Title
HS Research Assistant
Position Grade
06
Position Summary
The Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences is currently seekingmotivated individual to join Dr. Gurdeep Singh's research team at theUniversity of New Mexico School of Medicine as Research Assistant. Dr. Singh's lab focuseson decoding the epigenetic basis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and ocular/metastaticcancers. This is a unique opportunity to be part of cutting-edge biomedicalresearch with direct impact on future diagnostics and therapeutics. Candidatewill be part of various scientific paper writing and publications, contributeto medical research with real-world applications and learn cutting-edge researchmethods. The position is specifically for the work done in the lab. This is an on-call position anticipated to go through July 31, 2027.
What You'll Do in Singh lab:
  • Perform various lab & technical tasks, procedures for assigned ongoing research studies and routine tasks associated with the execution of epigenetics & molecular biology laboratory techniques.
  • Support trainees/students (undergrad, PhD, MD students and post-doc) in ongoing research projects focused on uveal melanoma, cancer epigenetics, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
  • Collect, process, and establish/coordinate: Data, samples, tissue dissections, new protocols etc.
  • Continue zebrafish work, organoid work, various culture work ensuring the proper growth and maintenance of various cell lines, spheroids etc.
  • Document work, including equipment settings, procedures, and results according to lab protocols.
  • Perform preliminary data experiments, assist in the routine data analysis.
  • Set up, operate, maintain, and clean laboratory instruments and equipment.
  • Follow good laboratory safety practices and comply with safety protocols.
  • Assist with literature reviews and maintain accurate research databases
  • Learn and apply experimental design, data analytics, and research methodology
  • Collaborate with researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds
  • Contribute to scientific writing and publication efforts, when appropriate
  • Apply learned techniques and knowledge to independent research projects
  • Time and workdays in the lab are flexible, provided that research responsibilities and expected research output are met.
  • Work hours must be recorded by clocking in and out on the laboratory computer. Compensation is provided only for work performed on-site in the UNM School of Medicine Singh Lab in New Mexico.

See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • A valid New Mexico driver's license will be required if a motor vehicle must be operated on the job.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED; no previous experience required.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree orenrollment in the final year of a bachelor's degree program.

Additional Requirements
Ability to work occasionally on weekends as lab needs dictate.
Campus
Health Sciences Center (HSC) - Albuquerque, NM
Department
Department of Ophthalmology (409A)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
On-Call
Term End Date
Status
Non-Exempt
Pay
Hourly: $16.88 - $21.14
Benefits Eligible
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
No
For Best Consideration Date
8/10/2026
Eligible for Remote Work
No
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Please attach Cover Letter explaining interest in the position and highlighting relevant skills/background, scientific writing experience etc. Attach Resume or CV. If available, a sample of your scientific writing or a brief description of any relevant previous projects and transcripts.
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

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