1

Field Research Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - Washington DC ICON is a global healthcare ... Bachelor's degree (scientific field preferred) * 5+ years monitoring clinical trials independently ...

Bachelor's degree in a scientific or healthcare-related field. * Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Clinical Research Associate. * In-depth knowledge of clinical trial processes, regulations, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Field Research Associate information

What is a field research associate?

Field Research Associates are professionals who collect, analyze, and interpret data outside of a traditional laboratory or office setting, often in natural or community environments. They support research projects by conducting surveys, experiments, observations, or interviews in the field. Their work is crucial for gathering accurate, real-world data that informs scientific studies, policy decisions, or product development. Field Research Associates may work in areas such as environmental science, social research, agriculture, or public health.

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

To thrive as a Field Research Associate, you need a background in scientific research methods, data collection, and statistical analysis, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with tools such as GPS devices, data management software, and laboratory equipment, along with certifications in field safety or research ethics, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, adaptability to changing environments, and effective communication skills are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, reliable research outcomes, and smooth field operations, which are critical for advancing scientific knowledge.

What are some common challenges faced by field research associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Field Research Associates often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, logistical issues in remote locations, and maintaining data accuracy in dynamic environments. To manage these effectively, it's important to plan thoroughly, maintain flexible schedules, and utilize reliable data collection tools. Strong communication with the research team and adaptability to unexpected changes are also key to ensuring successful fieldwork and high-quality research outcomes.

What is the difference between Field Research Associate vs Research Assistant?

AspectField Research AssociateResearch Assistant
CredentialsBachelor's degree often required; some roles prefer related certificationsBachelor's degree typically required; entry-level position
Work EnvironmentPrimarily outdoor or on-site data collection in various locationsMostly office or lab-based, supporting research projects
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, environmental agencies, NGOsUniversities, research labs, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork responsibilities and outdoor data collectionCompared for support roles in research projects

The main difference is that a Field Research Associate typically conducts outdoor, on-site data collection and fieldwork, requiring more outdoor skills and sometimes certifications. In contrast, a Research Assistant usually works in labs or offices, supporting research activities with data analysis and documentation. Both roles are essential in research projects but differ mainly in work environment and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Field Research jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Field Research jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Field Research Associate job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Associate Research Scientist (PREP0004158)

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Johns Hopkins University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
PREP Research Associate
This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
Research Title:
Senior Research Associate - Fit-for-Purpose Cellular Measurements for Process Analytical Technologies (U.S. Citizens preferred)
The work will entail:
The Material Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking qualified persons (U.S. Citizens preferred) to contribute to cutting-edge research projects aimed at developing process analytical technologies to support cell-based manufacturing and cell-based assays. A successful applicant will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team working with cutting-edge cell analytical technologies within the NIST Biomaterials Group to address critical cell measurement challenges in biotechnology. They will contribute to international standardization efforts in cell characterization, and the development of reference strategies to support reproducibility for cell culture and cell-based assays.
U.S. Citizen Preferred
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
§ Conduct mammalian cell culture
§ Design and execute cell characterization experiments, develop and conduct data analysis workflows including statistical analyses, and interpret results
§ Ensure that protocols and results are well-documented
§ Present findings at meetings and conferences and prepare manuscripts
§ Collaborate with stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams
Qualifications
• Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in mammalian cell culture with 1+ year of specialized experience in adherent cells
• 3+ years of experience in mammalian cell health assays (e.g., viability, apoptosis, DNA damage)
• 3+ years of experience in mass spectrometry with 1 year of specialized experience in cell-based metabolomics
• 3+ years of experience in cytometry (e.g., image-based, flow-based)
• Proficiency in operating advanced cell analysis instrumentation and developing protocols
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead research efforts to successfully achieve research goals
• Experience with cell process analytical technologies (e.g., real-time, label-free, non-destructive) (preferred)
• Familiarity with statistical analysis tools and design of experiment strategies (preferred)
Application Instructions
Please upload the following with your application:
• CV/Resume
*Please limit C.V to 3 pages only and ONLY include a valid email address for your contact info. Your resume will not be considered if the following information is included on your CV/resume.
Self portraits
Phone number
Home address/Country
Citizenship status
Languages spoken
Sex/Gender
Privacy Act Statement
Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.

What Johns Hopkins University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Johns Hopkins University logo

About Johns Hopkins University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Gilman believed that teaching and research go hand in hand—that success in one depends on success in the other—and that a modern university must do both well. He also believed that sharing our knowledge and discoveries would help make the world a better place. In 145 years, we haven’t strayed from that vision. This is still a destination for excellent, ambitious scholars and a world leader in teaching and research. Distinguished professors mentor students in the arts and music, humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering, international studies, education, business, and the health professions. Those same faculty members, along with their colleagues at the university’s Applied Physics Laboratory, have made us the nation’s leader in federal research and development funding every year since 1979. That’s a fitting distinction for America’s first research university, a place that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1876