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Junior Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University - Kingsville Department ... Provide mentorship and technical training to students or junior researchers in experimental design ...

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Junior Research Associate information

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$29K

$57.7K

$124.5K

How much do junior research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior research associate in the United States is $57,652.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $59,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do junior Research Assistants do?

Junior Research Assistants support research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and preparing reports. They often work under the supervision of senior researchers and may use tools like statistical software or laboratory equipment to assist in experiments and data management.

Can you be a CRA with no experience?

A Junior Research Associate (CRA) typically requires some background in research methods or related skills, but entry-level positions may be available to candidates with minimal experience if they demonstrate strong analytical abilities and willingness to learn. Most CRAs receive on-the-job training and may need to obtain certifications such as GCP (Good Clinical Practice) to advance in the role.

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

AspectJunior Research AssociateResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, some roles may prefer a master'sTypically a bachelor's degree or ongoing education
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry settingsLaboratories, field sites, academic environments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesUniversities, research projects, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level research roles with similar responsibilitiesEntry-level support role assisting senior researchers

The main difference between a Junior Research Associate and a Research Assistant lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Junior Research Associates typically have more advanced education and handle more independent research tasks, while Research Assistants focus on supporting research activities under supervision. Both roles are common in academic and industry research settings, but the Junior Research Associate position often requires a higher level of expertise and offers greater responsibility.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A Junior Research Associate position typically does not require a PhD; a bachelor's degree in a relevant field is usually sufficient. However, some roles may prefer or require advanced degrees or specific research experience, depending on the complexity of the research and the organization’s requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Research Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Research Associate, you need a solid background in research methodologies, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree, such as in science or social science. Familiarity with statistical software (like SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and research documentation systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate, reliable research outcomes and effective collaboration within research teams.

How much is a research associate paid?

Research associates typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced skills or in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are Junior Research Associates?

Junior Research Associates are entry-level professionals who assist in conducting research projects across various fields such as science, social sciences, or business. They typically support senior researchers by collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and helping with literature reviews. Their role is essential in ensuring that research projects run smoothly and efficiently, often providing administrative and technical support. Junior Research Associates also gain valuable experience that helps them progress to more advanced research positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Junior Research Associates when managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

Junior Research Associates often juggle several projects at once, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. Balancing deadlines, coordinating with multiple team members, and adapting quickly to shifting project requirements are frequent hurdles. To succeed, it's important to communicate proactively with supervisors, keep organized records, and seek guidance when prioritizing tasks. Developing strong organizational skills early can help ensure you meet expectations and contribute effectively to your research team.
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Infographic showing various Junior Research Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 72% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,652 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

$80K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

The Bettelli Lab at the Benaroya Research Institute is seeking a motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team. The Benaroya research Institute is devoted to finding causes and cures for immune system diseases and is an international leader in translating discoveries in autoimmune diseases to real life applications. The Bettelli lab focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying immune regulation and autoimmunity in multiple sclerosis.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work on ongoing grant-funded projects centered around defining the roles of CD4+ tissue resident memory T cells in multiple sclerosis and animal models of multiple sclerosis, understanding their interactions with other immune and central nervous system resident cells and modifying them for therapeutic benefits.


Responsibilities include the design and implementation of projects in neuroimmunology research. The candidate will perform in vitro and in vivo experiments including mouse models of multiple sclerosis, tissue harvest and processing, flow cytometry, FACS sorting, immunohistochemistry, cell culture, nucleic acid extractions, scRNA sequencing, and CRISPR gene editing. The candidate is expected to set up and operate laboratory equipment, document and analyze experimental results, maintains accurate records of laboratory activities, write and summarize experimental data for oral and written grant proposals and manuscripts, provide training and oversight for junior research team members, work collaboratively with other staff members.


A Ph.D. in immunology, neuroscience, molecular biology, or a related field is required, along with strong background in immunology, flow cytometry, molecular biology techniques, murine disease models, and strong research and data analysis skills. Expertise working with murine models of multiple sclerosis, human primary cells, multi-dimensional flow cytometry, molecular biology, and bioinformatics analysis is preferred. Applicants with good organizational and analytical skills, with 2 years or less of postdoctoral experience and with at least one first-author publication are encouraged to apply.


$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.