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Contract Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Medpace, Inc.

Contract Manager

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

Medpace, Inc.

Contract Manager

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

Novotech

Contracts Manager

Dedham, MA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Novotech is a global full-service clinical Contract Research Organization (CRO). At Novotech, ambition meets opportunity. As a globally recognized leader in clinical research and scientific advisory ...

Eurofins

Contracts Specialist

Lancaster, PA · On-site

The Eurofins network of companies is the global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in agroscience Contract Research Organisation services. It is one of the ...

Medpace, Inc.

Experienced Contract Manager

Irving, TX · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

Medpace, Inc.

Experienced Contract Manager

Irving, TX

$82K - $110K/yr

Travel : minimal Medpace Overview Medpace is a full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO). We provide Phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and ...

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All JobsContract Researcher Jobs

Contract Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do contract researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, experience in research methodologies, and a relevant academic background such as a degree in science or social sciences. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), literature databases, and ethical compliance certifications is often required. Excellent written communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or with diverse teams are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial to delivering high-quality, credible research outcomes that meet client or project objectives.

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

AspectContract ResearcherClinical Research Associate
Required credentialsTypically a degree in life sciences, relevant certificationsDegree in health sciences, certifications like CRA certification
Work environmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizationsMonitoring clinical trials at sites, data review
Employer and industry usagePharmaceutical, biotech, CROsPharmaceutical companies, CROs, hospitals

Both roles involve clinical research but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities. Contract Researchers often focus on specific research projects or experiments, while Clinical Research Associates primarily monitor and manage clinical trial sites. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the clinical research industry.

What are Contract Researchers?

Contract Researchers are professionals hired on a temporary basis to conduct specific research projects for organizations, universities, or companies. They typically work under contracts rather than as permanent staff, focusing on tasks such as data collection, analysis, and reporting. Their work can span a variety of fields, including science, social science, market research, and more. Contract Researchers are valued for their expertise and flexibility, often bringing specialized skills to short-term or project-based assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Researchers and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract Researchers often work on multiple projects for different clients or organizations, which can lead to tight deadlines and shifting priorities. Managing time efficiently and maintaining clear communication with stakeholders is crucial to ensure deliverables meet expectations. Additionally, adapting quickly to new research topics and methodologies is important, as contract work can span various industries or subject areas. Building strong organizational skills and staying proactive about clarifying project scopes can help overcome these challenges.
More about Contract Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Contract Researcher job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs? The most popular types of Researcher jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Researcher jobs are:
Contract Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Researcher job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Locum Tenens, 10% Internship, 20% As Needed, 30% Full Time, 20% Temporary, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Research Associate II - Translational Sciences (Contract)

Research Associate II - Translational Sciences (Contract)

Pliant Therapeutics, Inc.

South San Francisco, CA

$44 - $50/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description

We have an immediate opening for a contract Research Associate within our Translational Sciences group. This is a full-time (40 hours per week) contract position with a duration of 6 months.

This individual will join a team focused on discovery and advancement of tissue-specific delivery of drug payloads utilizing integrin receptor-binding molecules. The primary responsibility of this position will include processing samples, developing, troubleshooting and optimizing assays. 

Responsibilities
  • Process cell and tissue-based samples through multiple molecular assays following appropriate laboratory/technical procedures with special attention to data quality and reproducibility
  • Learn new laboratory techniques, troubleshoot experiments, and ensure experiments are well-designed and performed to a high standard
  • Make detailed observations, analyze data promptly, and maintain accurate records
  • Evaluate and clearly report experimental results to research team on a routine basis
  • Contribute to development and adoption of new technologies
  • Provide support for various research team projects and lab needs based using dynamic prioritization
  • Actively participate in project meetings
Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, abilities, and prior experience required.

  • BA/BS degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, Cell Biology or related field with a minimum of 3+ years full time laboratory experience in an industry or academic setting.
  • Practical experience in common cell biology laboratory procedures including cell culture, transfection, qRT-PCR, ELISA, Western blot, immunofluorescence-based staining is a must. Having experience with running Nanostring, MSD, and/or working with oligonucleotides is an advantage
  • Experience working with a variety of primary human and immune cells is preferred
  • Comfortable working with ex vivo tissues e.g. human, NHP, and rodent tissues
  • Ability to evaluate and clearly communicate results both verbally and in written form
  • Candidate should be flexible with rapid changes in schedule based on scope/prioritization of projects
  • Candidate should exhibit strong, positive attitude for teamwork and learning
  • Ability to thrive in a culture of respect, accountability, transparency, and collaboration.

The hourly rate for this role is $44/hr - $50/hr. Individual pay may vary based on additional factors, including, and without limitation job-related skills, experience, work location and relevant education or training.

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