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Contract Research Associate Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Adecco

Research Associate I

Waltham, MA

$44.39/hr

Contract Job Summary We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Molecular Biology ... Learn new techniques and workflows quickly and contribute effectively in a fast-paced research ...

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All JobsContract Research Associate JobsContract Research Associate Jobs in Boston, MA

Contract Research Associate information

See Boston, MA salary details

$17

$35

$50

How much do contract research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract research associate in Boston, MA is $35.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $40.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract research associate?

A Contract Research Associate (CRA) is a professional who is typically hired on a contractual basis to support and manage clinical trials or research projects. Their primary responsibilities include monitoring research sites, ensuring compliance with protocols and regulations, collecting and verifying data, and maintaining proper documentation. CRAs play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and safety of clinical studies, often working for pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), or academic institutions. The contract nature of the role means that assignments are usually project-based and may vary in duration and scope.

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

To thrive as a Contract Research Associate, you need a solid background in life sciences or a related field, attention to detail, and experience with clinical research processes. Familiarity with regulatory systems like FDA guidelines, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), data management tools, and electronic data capture (EDC) systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently or in teams help set candidates apart. These competencies ensure that clinical trials are conducted accurately, compliantly, and efficiently, supporting successful research outcomes.

What are some typical challenges faced by contract research associates when managing multiple studies simultaneously?

Contract Research Associates often juggle several clinical trials at once, which can pose challenges in time management and prioritization. Balancing the requirements of different sponsors, adhering to varying protocols, and ensuring accurate documentation for each study demand strong organizational skills. Additionally, staying up to date with regulatory changes and effective communication with site staff are crucial to avoid delays and ensure compliance. Developing efficient workflows and leveraging project management tools can help address these challenges.

What is the difference between Contract Research Associate vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectContract Research AssociateClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often in life sciences; certifications like CCRP beneficialBachelor's degree in health sciences or related field; certifications like CCRP or CCRC advantageous
Work EnvironmentTypically in pharmaceutical or biotech companies, contract research organizations (CROs)Usually in hospitals, clinics, or research sites
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsHospitals, academic medical centers, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles support clinical trials, a Contract Research Associate primarily works for pharmaceutical or biotech companies managing trial processes remotely or at sites, often on a contractual basis. A Clinical Research Coordinator typically works directly at research sites, coordinating patient visits and data collection. Both roles require similar credentials and certifications, but their work environments and employer types differ.

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Contract Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Contract Research Associate job openings:

Contract Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Research Associate job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,534 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Research Associate, NGS Operations

Hunter Recruiting

Boston, MA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Research Associate, NGS Operations

Boston, MA

$30-40/hr

6-Month Contract



The Research Associate, NGS Operations will empower the customers with high-quality and efficient sequencing services. It is critical that they have a strong background in diverse applications of NGS.


Research Associate, NGS Operations Responsibilities:

  • Follow established SOPs to perform NGS wet lab experiments focused on mammalian cell applications (DRUGseq, RNAseq, Amplicon Sequencing).
  • Maintain excellent customer service by coordinating with cell assay team to process samples and return results.
  • Demonstrate excellence by troubleshooting issues and maintaining our high standards for quality.
  • Train on new protocols and contribute to SOP improvements.
  • Contribute to Lean/Six Sigma eff orts on shared workspaces.
  • Be a team player by participating in general laboratory maintenance and other laboratory duties.
  • Keep an organized work space and a neat laboratory notebook.
  • Participate in maintaining inventory and ordering of laboratory supplies.


Research Associate, NGS Operations Requirements:

  • Bachelor degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or relevant field with 1-3 years of industry experience.
  • Relevant experience with molecular biology protocols, as well as understanding of related reagents.
  • Illumina library preparation and NGS experience.
  • Magnetic bead-based cleanup experience in 96-well plate format.
  • Familiarity with high-throughput automation.
  • Strong documentation is a top-tier requirement for both, including ELN, LIMS, and SOP writing and updates.
  • Experience with some or all of the following molecular biology techniques and sequencing platforms: DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, RT-qPCR, DNAseq, RNAseq.
  • Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.

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