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Graduate Research Associate Jobs in Birmingham, AL

... research animal contact, and/or specimens. * Perform other duties as assigned. Hourly Range : $ 16.50- $ 26.80 Qualifications Qualifications Associate's degree in a related field OR High School ...

This role involves performing standard research tasks, including sample processing, basic data ... Hourly Range : $ 16.50- $ 20.00 Qualifications Qualifications Associate's degree in a related field ...

Associate Navigation & Autonomy Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With Tocaro Blue , as an Associate Navigation and Autonomy Engineer, you'll be at the forefront of ... graduate research counts if directly applicable) * Proven track record through Master's thesis ...

Associate Navigation & Autonomy Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

With Tocaro Blue , as an Associate Navigation and Autonomy Engineer, you'll be at the forefront of ... graduate research counts if directly applicable) * Proven track record through Master's thesis ...

RESEARCHER

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$65K/yr

The candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to stem cell research and apply techniques ... Associate's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required or High ...

RESEARCHER

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

The candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to stem cell research and apply techniques ... Associate's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required or High ...

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Graduate Research Associate information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$15

$30

$43

How much do graduate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research associate in Birmingham, AL is $30.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.57 and $34.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Birmingham, AL? The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in Birmingham, AL are:
What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Graduate Research Associate jobs? Cities near Birmingham, AL with the most Graduate Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Associate job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,434 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

RESEARCHER ASSISTANT

UAB NOVA RENT

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Molecular & Cellular Pathology, is seeking a dedicated Researcher Assistant to join their team. We are seeking a Researcher Assistant to work with the Principal Investigator in achieving the aims of an awarded NIH grant. Our research focuses on various cardiovascular diseases using different mouse models. Responsibilities include maintaining the animal colony, laboratory equipment maintenance, data collection and analysis, and performing in vitro and in vivo assays such as animal genotyping, tissue culture, western blotting, and real-time PCR.
General Responsibilities
  • As a Researcher Assistant, you will contribute to the daily operations of research projects under the close supervision of experienced researchers. This role involves performing standard research tasks, including sample processing, basic data analysis, and maintaining accurate records. Your support will be crucial in helping senior team members execute complex protocols and ensuring the smooth functioning of the lab. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Hourly Range : $ 16.50- $ 26.80
Qualifications
Qualifications
Associate's degree in a related field OR High School diploma or GED and two (2) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.
Preferences
  • Experience working with experimental rodents and proficiency in routine molecular biology techniques are preferred.
  • Examples of desired hands-on skills include animal colony maintenance, genotyping, tissue culture, western blotting, and real-time PCR.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or Microbiology

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.