2

Entry Level Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$52 - $76/hr

Join us to help scale innovation globally and shape what's next in crop science.We are seeking an entry-level Research Associate to support the development and execution of transient plant assays ...

New

Research Assistant

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... entry-level research role for individuals with less than 3 years of research experience, and is designed to be a potential career path towards eventually contributing as a Research Scientist. At ...

R&D Chemist

Janesville, WI · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description SHINE Technologies is seeking an Entry Level R&D Chemist to develop ... S. in chemistry or related scientific discipline. * Willingness to be "hands on" with new ...

As an entry level research associate, this position offers you: * Technical and scientific development leading to professional advancement or graduate school * Opportunity to use automated liquid ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do entry level research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level research scientist do?

An entry level research scientist assists in designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments under the supervision of senior scientists. They may collect and interpret data, maintain laboratory equipment, and help prepare reports or publications. Their work is vital for supporting ongoing research projects and gaining foundational experience in scientific methods and procedures. Entry level research scientists often work in fields such as biology, chemistry, or engineering, and their tasks may vary depending on the specific area of research.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level research scientists during their first year?

Entry level research scientists often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced and sometimes ambiguous nature of research projects, mastering new laboratory techniques, and learning to interpret complex data. Collaborating effectively with senior researchers and multidisciplinary teams can also require strong communication skills. Additionally, balancing multiple tasks—such as conducting experiments, analyzing results, and preparing reports—requires effective time management and adaptability as you build experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Research Scientist, you need a solid academic background in a scientific discipline, strong analytical skills, and experience with laboratory techniques, usually supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as R or Python), laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is often required. Attention to detail, curiosity, effective teamwork, and strong written and verbal communication skills help distinguish candidates in this field. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate research results, maintaining safe lab environments, and contributing effectively to scientific discovery and collaboration.

What is the difference between Entry Level Research Scientist vs Research Associate?

CriteriaEntry Level Research ScientistResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's, often with some research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesLaboratories, research teams
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaAcademic labs, industry research divisions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Research Scientists and Research Associates often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers; 'Research Associate' may imply slightly more experience or specific roles, but both positions typically involve conducting experiments, data analysis, and supporting research projects in laboratory settings.

How to become an entry level research scientist with no experience?

To become an entry level research scientist with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant bachelor's degree in a scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Gaining practical skills through internships, laboratory coursework, or research assistant positions can improve your prospects, and developing proficiency with research tools and data analysis software is beneficial.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Research Scientist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Scientist jobs?

The most popular types of Research Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Research Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Research Scientists (non-PhD)

University of Utah

Campus, IL • On-site

$36K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Details
Open Date 06/30/2026 Requisition Number PRN45510B Job Title Research Scientists (non-PhD) Working Title Research Scientist Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P2 - Developing, P1 - Entry Level Pro FLSA Code Professional Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary VP Area U of U Health - Academics Department 00917 - Vascular Surgery Development Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $36,196 to $83,036 Close Date 08/31/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
The Audu lab is focused on uncovering and targeting epigenetic enzymes essential to regulating diseases of the vasculature such as atherosclerosis, aneurysmal development, intimal hyperplasia, and arterial calcification. The lab studies known innate immune cellular cross-talk, epigenetic regulation of disease, extracellular protein production, and medicinal chemical synthesis in a high throughput experimentation setting. Thus, our projects sit at the intersection of immunology, biophysics, medicinal chemistry and vascular surgery.
We seek a lab specialist to manage lab logistics, perform seminal scientific experiments, and contribute to the scientific literature. This position seeks someone that will independently perform or direct the performance of highly specialized and complex research where original scientific contributions are expected as a result of acquired experience as a seasoned professional. Will also assist in managing laboratory setup, and inventory.
If this appeals to you, please apply by sending your CV and 3 letters of reference as a single pdf file to chris.audu@hsc.utah.edu. Successful applicants will be invited to an initial Zoom interview.
Responsibilities
  1. Applies independent judgment in order to assess the validity of data collected and to interpret results.
  2. Devises, refines and implements new techniques or modifies existing processes by utilizing advanced knowledge.
  3. Directs the daily operation of the lab including hiring and training subordinates.
  4. Prepares, operates and maintains laboratory and experimental testing equipment.
  5. May coauthor research papers and publications.
  6. May represent the University by presenting research and findings to peers at conventions and conferences.
Problem Solving
Incumbents in this position work independently to review, analyze and interpret the results of the data collected and assist the principal investigator in getting the information presented to peers and published in appropriate journals.
Incumbents in this position are responsible for addressing unusual or sensitive situations and for bringing them to resolution. If they are unable to bring them to resolution, they will consult with the principal investigator to obtain resolution.

Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job. Successful applicants will be given further information on the projects and job specifics. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and prior training.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:
Nearly Continuously: Office and laboratory environment.
Work will be primarily in the Translational Vascular Physiology laboratories housed within the Salt Lake City Veterans Health Affairs campus, which is adjacent to the University of Utah campus. All work will be conducted in Salt Lake City.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.




Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Research Scientist, I: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.
Research Scientist, II: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.


Preferences



Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

What University Of Utah employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


University of Utah logo

About University of Utah

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US