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Graduate Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cornerstone Research

Associate - PhD

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Associates apply theoretical and empirical research skills gained through their graduate-level training to conduct innovative and rigorous analysis to interesting real-world problems. The outcomes of ...

ICON

Senior Clinical Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $138K/yr

Senior Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - West Region ICON is a global healthcare ... A graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or equivalent, or a qualified RN * Eligible to ...

NCIRE

Staff Research Associate III

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Rigorous basic and translational research experience/training during graduate/research training. * Significant experience in standard laboratory techniques (such as microbiology and handling ...

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Graduate Research Associate information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Research Associate, you need a solid academic background in your field, strong analytical skills, and experience with research methodologies, typically supported by enrollment in a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), literature databases, and possibly lab equipment or coding languages is often required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and time management are critical soft skills for producing high-quality research and collaborating with faculty and peers. These skills are vital for conducting rigorous research, contributing to academic publications, and advancing both individual and institutional research goals.

Is being a graduate research associate worth it?

A graduate research associate role involves conducting research under supervision, often in academic or laboratory settings, and can provide valuable experience for careers in academia, industry, or further study. The position typically offers a stipend or salary, opportunities to develop technical skills, and networking connections, making it a worthwhile step for those pursuing research-oriented careers.

Do I need a PhD to be a graduate research associate?

A graduate research associate position typically requires at least a master's degree in a relevant field; a PhD is not usually required but may be preferred for advanced research roles. The specific educational requirements depend on the employer and the level of research involved. Skills in research methods, data analysis, and relevant tools are also important for this role.

What is a graduate research associate?

Graduate Research Associates are graduate students, often pursuing a master's or doctoral degree, who assist faculty members or research teams with academic research projects. Their responsibilities can include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing research reports, and sometimes co-authoring publications. These positions help students gain practical research experience and develop skills relevant to their academic and professional careers.

What are some typical challenges graduate research associates face when balancing research responsibilities with coursework or teaching duties?

Graduate Research Associates often juggle multiple commitments, including research, coursework, and sometimes teaching assistantships. Managing time effectively can be challenging, especially when project deadlines and academic requirements overlap. Many associates develop strong organizational and communication skills to handle shifting priorities, and it's common to coordinate closely with advisors to set realistic goals and expectations. Proactively seeking support from peers and utilizing university resources can also help in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

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

AspectGraduate Research AssociateResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in a graduate program; may have a bachelor's degreeUsually holds a bachelor's degree; some roles require a master's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or industry R&D departmentsResearch labs, academic settings, or fieldwork environments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, and industry R&D teamsUniversities, government agencies, and private companies

The Graduate Research Associate role generally involves advanced research responsibilities within academic or industry settings and often requires enrollment in a graduate program. Research Assistants typically support research projects with less independent responsibility and may have fewer educational prerequisites. Both roles are essential for research projects but differ mainly in educational status and scope of responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Research jobs in California? The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Graduate Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Graduate Research Associate job openings:
Graduate Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$68K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

For more than 75 years, the University of Southern California has been working to ensure that people of every age and from every circumstance can live life to the fullest. Throughout the decades, Trojans near and far have advanced the profession of occupational therapy and the research discipline of occupational science. Today, the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy proudly carries this legacy forward as we aim to improve the quality of life of people and communities across the world.
We have a shared purpose here at USC Chan. Together, our researchers, educators, clinicians, students and alumni are dedicated to optimizing the engagement of people - especially those with disability, injury, illness, unhealthy lifestyles or chronic conditions - in the ordinary and extraordinary activities of life.
The University of Southern California (USC) Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy is seeking two Postdoctoral Scholars - Research Associates to join the Neural Plasticity and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory led by Dr. Sook-Lei Liew. These positions are funded by an NIH R01 grant focused on advancing research in neurorehabilitation, imaging analysis, and brain-computer interfaces.
About the Role
The Postdoctoral Scholars will contribute to multidisciplinary research investigating how brain activity and neuroplasticity relate to motor recovery following neurological injury. Projects may include developing and testing novel brain-computer interface (BCI) systems, conducting neuroimaging analyses (MRI, EEG, fNIRS), and designing experimental and clinical studies to improve rehabilitation outcomes.
The scholars will work closely with Dr. Liew and collaborators across neuroscience, engineering, and rehabilitation disciplines, gaining valuable experience in both basic and translational research.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct independent and collaborative research in neurorehabilitation and brain-computer interface technology
  • Design, implement, and analyze neuroimaging and behavioral experiments
  • Prepare manuscripts for publication and assist in grant writing
  • Mentor graduate and undergraduate students involved in related research
  • Present research findings at conferences and other academic venues

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • Ph.D. in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, occupational therapy, kinesiology, psychology, or a related field
  • Strong background in neuroimaging (e.g., MRI, EEG) or brain-computer interface research
  • Demonstrated record of scientific productivity (e.g., publications, conference presentations)
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with neurorehabilitation or motor recovery research
  • Proficiency in programming and data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, R, SPM, FSL)
  • Familiarity with human subjects research and IRB protocols

The annual base salary for this position is $68,640. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.
USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
Minimum Requirements:
Ph.D. in neuroscience, biomedical engineering, occupational therapy, kinesiology, psychology, or a related field
Strong background in neuroimaging (e.g., MRI, EEG) or brain-computer interface research
Demonstrated record of scientific productivity (e.g., publications, conference presentations)
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills
USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:
https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$134864.htmld

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About University of Southern California

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The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880

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