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Graduate Research Associate Jobs in North Carolina

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Associate

Chapel Hill, NC · Hybrid

ShepsGME (Sheps Graduate Medical Education) Technical Assistance Centers at the University of North ... The Research Associate provides program management, project coordination, and outcomes evaluation ...

NCAT

Research Associate

Greensboro, NC · On-site

... and graduate research assistants in Housing Research, to continue to develop his/her research ... Associate Position Number 008212 Recruitment Salary Range $58,000 FLSA Exempt Appointment Type ...

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All JobsGraduate Research Associate JobsGraduate Research Associate Jobs in North Carolina

Graduate Research Associate information

See North Carolina salary details

$6

$19

$36

How much do graduate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research associate in North Carolina is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $24.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 North Carolina?

The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Graduate Research Associate jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Graduate Research Associate job openings:

Graduate Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Associate job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,843 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Temporary Research Associate

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC • On-site

Temporary

Posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform standard molecular biology techniques, including PCR, DNA/RNA and protein biochemistry, and maintenance of cell lines/tissue cultures.

  • Support graduate research programs by providing hands-on training and mentorship in laboratory practices.

  • Maintain and manage laboratory equipment and supplies to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Position Number
Working Title
Temporary Research Associate
Division
Academic Affairs
Department/Unit
Department of Natural Sciences
Section
Department of Natural Sciences (section)
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
Description of Work
Perform standard molecular biology techniques, including PCR, DNA/RNA and protein biochemistry, and maintenance of cell lines/tissue cultures. Ensure the quality and consistency of experimental procedures supporting the biology graduate program research initiatives. Provide hands-on training to graduate students in laboratory techniques. Mentor students in developing scientific reasoning and critical thinking skills through experiential learning opportunities. Manage laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance and supply inventory. Collaborate with faculty to incorporate research activities into course modules and ensure a safe, efficient laboratory environment.
Competencies/Knowledge Skills, and Abilities Required in this Position
Position requires strong interpersonal skills for effective communication with faculty and students; ability to write reports; strong technical and analytical skills; and effective organizational skills and customer services skills necessary for a research-oriented environment.
The Graduate Research Associate will contribute to the Department of Health and Life Sciences commitment to fostering transformative learning experiences and advancing applied research initiatives. The role involves supporting laboratory operations and implementing real-life molecular
biology research into the curriculum, aligning with the university's strategic goals to enhance academic excellence and operational efficiency.
The incumbent will:
a) Perform standard molecular biology techniques, including but not limited to PCR, DNA/RNA and protein biochemistry, and maintenance of cell lines/tissue cultures.
b) Support graduate research programs by providing hands-on training and mentorship in laboratory practices.
c) Maintain and manage laboratory equipment and supplies to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.
d) Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to foster a rigorous and inclusive academic atmosphere that emphasizes active learning, scientific reasoning, and critical thinking. This position supports the department's broader objectives to prepare students for STEM career opportunities and graduate/professional programs through innovative, technology-driven instruction and research initiatives.
License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation
Management Preferences
Position Recruitment Range
Position Category
Temporary/Student
Position Status
Temporary
Work Hours (i.e. 8:00-5:00pm, etc.)
Varies
Work Schedule (i.e. Mon-Fri, Rotating Shifts, Etc.)
Varies
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ATS00114P
Job Open Date
08/27/2026
Job Close Date
09/16/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicant
AA/EEO Statement
Elizabeth City State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The University does not discriminate in access to its educational programs and activities, or with respect to hiring or the terms and conditions of employment, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or sexual orientation.
Background Check Statement
Any offer of employment to a successful candidate will be conditioned upon the University's receipt of a satisfactory criminal background report.
Eligibility for Employment
Proper documentation of identity and eligibility for employment will be required before the hiring process can be completed. ECSU is an E-Verify participant.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.ecsu.edu/postings/5171

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