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Lab Research Associate Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

DRIVES Research Associate

Beltsville, MD · On-site

The Associate will be responsible for database expansion and enhancing interoperability using data ... Contribute to advancing the Agroecology Lab's research program through collaborative initiatives.

Parexel

Research Associate

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Research Associate Work Location: onsite in Baltimore, MD Parexel Early Phase Clinical Unit ... lab results, and other test results. * Prepare/monitor study supplies and stock levels in clinic ...

Parexel

Research Associate

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Research Associate Work Location: onsite in Baltimore, MD Parexel Early Phase Clinical Unit ... lab results, and other test results. * Prepare/monitor study supplies and stock levels in clinic ...

Parexel

Research Associate

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Research Associate Work Location: onsite in Baltimore, MD Parexel Early Phase Clinical Unit ... lab results, and other test results. * Prepare/monitor study supplies and stock levels in clinic ...

MSD

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59K - $87K/yr

This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development ... lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and ...

MSD

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59K - $87K/yr

This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development ... lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and ...

MSD

Research Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$59K - $87K/yr

This is a laboratory-based position responsible for advancing research and/or development ... lab maintenance initiatives including but not limited to maintaining laboratory supplies and ...

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How much do lab research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab research associate in Columbia, MD is $22.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lab research associate do?

A Lab Research Associate supports scientific research by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often assist senior researchers in designing studies, collecting samples, and performing routine tests. Their role is crucial in ensuring that experiments are conducted accurately and efficiently, following safety protocols and documentation standards. Lab Research Associates work in various settings, including universities, hospitals, and private research facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab research associate?

To thrive as a Lab Research Associate, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or a related field, usually with a bachelor's or master's degree and experience in laboratory techniques. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and protocols like PCR or chromatography is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These capabilities ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and contribute to successful research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by lab research associates when managing multiple experiments simultaneously?

Lab Research Associates often juggle several experiments at once, which can be challenging due to the need for precise timing, meticulous record-keeping, and coordination with other team members. Unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or reagent shortages, may require quick troubleshooting and adaptability. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential to ensure that data is accurately collected and experiments are completed within deadlines. Collaborating closely with principal investigators and fellow researchers also helps in prioritizing tasks and sharing resources efficiently.

What is a lab research associate in a lab?

A lab research associate is a professional responsible for conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results in a laboratory setting. They often work under the supervision of senior scientists and use tools like microscopes, lab equipment, and data analysis software to support research projects.

What qualifications do you need to be a lab research associate?

A lab research associate typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or related sciences. Laboratory skills, familiarity with research protocols, and attention to detail are important, and some positions may require experience with specific tools or techniques. Certifications or training in safety procedures can also be beneficial.

What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Lab Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Lab Research Associate job openings:

Lab Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Research Associate job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,172 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

DRIVES Research Associate

Beltsville, MD • On-site

NCSU
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

463rd of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about NCSUexternal

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number PG194802EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title DRIVES Research Associate Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with experience ($65,000 - $70,000) Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm Job Location Beltsville, MD Department Crop and Soil Sciences About the Department
The Agroecology Lab at NC State works to create more sustainable, resilient, and varied farming systems by:
  • Understanding how varied cropping systems support healthy soil, clean water, and other natural benefits, and reduce the risk of adverse weather
  • Finding practical ways to increase the variety of crops grown on farms
  • Exploring how these practices fit into real-world farming and food systems

Through hands-on research, teaching, and collaboration with students, farmers, and the community, we aim to build a more sustainable and just food future for North Carolina and beyond.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The DRIVES Agroecology Research Associate will work under the supervision of the Agroecology Professor to support the growth of the Agroecology Lab's research program about the impacts of crop diversification. Key responsibilities will include organizing and maintaining the Diverse Rotation Improve Valuable Ecosystem Services (DRIVES) database (drives-network.org) and conducting synthesis research on crop diversification across a range of environmental conditions.
The DRIVES database is a network of data from long-term cropping systems experiments. The Associate will be responsible for database expansion and enhancing interoperability using data dictionaries and controlled vocabularies when including additional variables. They will lead database content development and write code to assess the linkages between rotational diversity and economic performance and soil health. They will prepare publications for peer-reviewed journals and develop partnerships across the long-term cropping systems research community.
Duties include:
Research Data Management & Database Development 
  • Organize, maintain, and expand the Diverse Rotation Improve Valuable Ecosystem Services (DRIVES) database.
  • Enhance database interoperability by developing and implementing data dictionaries and controlled vocabularies.
  • Integrate and validate data from long-term cropping systems experiments across multiple research sites.
  • Ensure data quality, consistency, and accessibility to support collaborative agroecology research.
Research Analysis & Scholarly Publications 
  • Conduct synthesis research evaluating the impacts of crop diversification across diverse environmental conditions.
  • Develop and maintain analytical code to examine relationships between rotational diversity, economic performance, and soil health.
  • Interpret research findings and prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals.
  • Present research findings and contribute to reports, publications, and other scholarly products.
Collaboration & Research Network Development 
  • Develop and maintain partnerships with collaborators across the long-term cropping systems research community.
  • Coordinate with researchers to facilitate data sharing and database expansion.
  • Participate in project meetings and communicate project progress with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Contribute to advancing the Agroecology Lab's research program through collaborative initiatives.

Position is contingent on availability of funds, potentially 6 months to 1.5 years
Other Responsibilities
  • Mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, disseminating research in publications and outreach training activities.
  • Communicate with the IT services and maintain the website and the virtual machine.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Relevant Master's degree, or
  • Relevant Bachelor's and 3 or more years of relevant experience, relevant independent experience and education.
Other Required Qualifications
  • The Research Associate must be a clear communicator, have strong organizational skills, be able to work with diverse individuals, and work independently as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD in agronomy, soil science, or ecology,
  • Mastery in R, expertise in addressing spatiotemporal elements of research questions related to crop diversification,
  • Experience working with long-term cropping systems data,
  • Experience handling legacy datasets for organization and analysis, experience with large publicly available datasets,
  • Expertise in Bayesian statistics, experience working with supercomputers.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 08/06/2026 Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00112240 Position Type EPS/SAAO Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Department ID 110901 - Crop and Soil Sciences EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

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Year founded

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