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Graduate Research Associate Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

Seattle, WA · On-site

$81K - $95K/yr

What Will Separate You From the Rest: * 2+ years of post-graduate laboratory experience, with ... The compensation range for a Research Associate is $81,000 - $95,000, depending on experience.

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 ...

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

Whether you're a recent college graduate or seeking your next career opportunity, it's time to discover your future at Altasciences. We are better together and together We Are Altasciences. About The ...

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Graduate Research Associate information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$18

$37

$53

How much do graduate research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate research associate in Seattle, WA is $37.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $42.12 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Graduate Research jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Graduate Research Associate jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Graduate Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Graduate Research Associate job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,028 per year, or $37 per hour.

$80K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the Lacy-Hulbert Laboratory in the Center for Systems Immunology at Benaroya Research Institute. Research in the laboratory focuses on mechanisms of regulation of the innate immune system and how defects in these processes impact immune-mediated diseases such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and systemic autoimmunity.
The open position focuses on the study of integrin-mediated activation of TGF-beta in the gut mucosa and intestinal epithelial cell biology, particularly in the context of IBD pathogenesis. The laboratory uses a range of approaches, including in vivo and ex vivo mouse models, primary human cell culture, and in vitro organoid cultures.


Responsibilities include conceptualizing and executing experiments, data analysis, laboratory record keeping, and oral and written presentation of experimental results. The research associate will be expected to work collaboratively with other staff members in discussing projects, implementing experiments and preparing manuscripts and grant applications. The position may involve oversight/supervision of technicians or graduate students.


A PhD in immunology  or related field with a deep understanding of  mucosal immunology is required. Expertise working with primary human cells, intestinal tissues/organoids, murine models of intestinal inflammation, multi-dimensional flow cytometry, and assay development is desired. Experience  with bioinformatics analysis  is preferable but not essential. Applicants with good organizational and analytical skills are encouraged to apply. Applicants with 2 years or less of postdoctoral experience preferred.


$80,182 - $83,000 per year; depending on years of postdoctoral experience.


  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts: health care, dependent care, commuter
  • Short and long-term disability
  • Life and AD&D insurance
  • 403(b) retirement plan with matching funds after one year of employment
  • 13 holidays, 3 weeks of vacation and 2 weeks of sick leave per year
  • Employee assistance program
  • Educational assistance program
  • Subsidized ORCA pass
  • Wellness benefits
  • Voluntary benefits

Benaroya Research Institute (BRI) has a bold mission: to advance the science to predict, prevent, reverse and cure immune system diseases, from autoimmune disease to cancer to asthma and allergies. We create detailed pictures of the immune system in health and disease, aiming to understand how disorders start and how to rebalance the immune system back to health. Equipped with innovative tools and robust biorepositories, our team chips away at the biggest mysteries behind these conditions to work toward our vision of a healthy immune system for everyone. BRI is a nonprofit research institute based in Seattle and affiliated with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. We collaborate with clinicians and patients to accelerate the path from innovative lab discoveries to life-changing patient care.

At BRI, each individual is valued as an important contributor to our vision and mission. Consider making a difference by joining our team. Because together, we are powering possibility.
To learn more, visit benaroyaresearch.org and connect with us on LinkedIn, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, Facebook and YouTube.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

 

If you need an accommodation or assistance completing the online application, please contact Human Resources at 206-342-6547 or email jobs@benaroyaresearch.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.