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Graduate Research Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Research Associate II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - Chicago ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and ... A graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or equivalent preferred, or a qualified RN * ...

ICON

Clinical Research Associate II

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$91K - $114K/yr

Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - Chicago ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and ... A graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or equivalent preferred, or a qualified RN * ...

ICON

Clinical Research Associate - Cross TA

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$75K - $94K/yr

Clinical Research Associate - Cross Therapeutic Area - Chicago ICON is a global healthcare ... A graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or equivalent, or a qualified RN * Eligible to ...

The University of Chicago

Research Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... numerous graduate students and post-doctoral fellows. The Department has a staff of 220 advanced practice providers, administrators, research administrators, clinical research associates, and ...

Dominican University

Graduate Recruiter

River Forest, IL · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Partner with the Executive Director to research and develop relationships with professional ... Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Dominican University offers associate, baccalaureate ...

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All JobsGraduate Research Associate JobsGraduate Research Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Graduate Research Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$33

$48

How much do graduate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research associate in Chicago, IL is $33.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.97 and $38.12 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Graduate Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Graduate Research Associate job openings:

Graduate Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,726 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Research Associate

North Chicago, IL • On-site

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science
See more jobs at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Scienceexternal

$54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Compensation: $54,000.00 annually based on skills and experience.


Position Summary

A Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Fabio Re, (https://rosalindfranklin.edu/academics/faculty/fabio-re/), in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science. The focus of the lab is host-pathogen interaction with particular emphasis on innate immunity mechanisms including activation of the inflammasome, complement, and B1 cells biology.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long-term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b)-retirement plan which includes an 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ personal leave, 15 sick days, and 9 paid holidays, paid winter break, plus two floating holidays.

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA. RFU is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, cardiac resuscitation, and gait and balance.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Perform experiments and data analysis under Dr. Re supervision.


Conditions of Employment

  • Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check


Required Education & Experience

  • Candidates must have a pending or recent Ph.D. degree with a strong background in immunology or microbiology.


Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

  • Strong background in immunology or microbiology.
  • Basic molecular biology and biochemistry techniques.
  • Prior experience with mouse models is desirable.

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

  • Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets