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Medical Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Heluna Health

Research Associate

Santa Ana, CA

$28.82 - $36.25/hr

The Research Associate will join the team under the general oversight of the Orange County TB ... Coordinate participant screening and recruitment activities, including review of medical records ...

Heluna Health

Research Associate

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$28.82 - $36.25/hr

The Research Associate will join the team under the general oversight of the Orange County TB ... Coordinate participant screening and recruitment activities, including review of medical records ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... Competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, paid time off, in ...

Moffitt

Research Associate I

West Covina, CA

$18.64 - $28.53/hr

Summary The Research Associate I assumes the responsibility of performing basic, biological ... for Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, Retirement, Parental Leave and more. Tampa is a ...

Stratevi

Research Associate

Santa Monica, CA

$75K/yr

We are a boutique firm that partners with biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device ... Research Associates work across the HEOR and Market Access teams, supporting team members ...

RD Partners

Research Associate I

Foster City, CA · On-site

$39.85/hr

R&D Partners is seeking to hire a Research Associate I in Foster City, CA . Your main ... Medical insurance - PPO, HMO & * Dental & Vision insurance * 401k plan * Employee Assistance ...

BEPC INC

Be Seen First

Research Associate

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$32 - $35.38/hr

Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance Note: This is a W2 only role -- C2C and C2H will not be considered. Role Overview BEPC is actively seeking an In Vivo Research Associate to support our ...

Stratevi

Senior Research Associate

Santa Monica, CA

$95K/yr

We are a boutique firm that partners with biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device ... This Senior Research Associate role may work across the HEOR team, supporting our RWE and/or Health ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this ... Benefits * Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) * Retirement Plan (401k, IRA) * Paid Time ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this ... Benefits * Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) * Retirement Plan (401k, IRA) * Paid Time ...

Hearst

Research Associate

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

Join the healthcare information technology team that's turning drug and medical device data into ... The Research Associate will be responsible for accurately processing and maintaining pharmaceutical ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this ... Benefits * Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision) * Retirement Plan (401k, IRA) * Paid Time ...

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All JobsMedical Research Associate JobsMedical Research Associate Jobs in California

Medical Research Associate information

See California salary details

$37K

$52.6K

$57.7K

How much do medical research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical research associate in California is $52,628.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $57,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical research associate?

Medical Research Associates are professionals who assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of clinical trials and medical research studies. They ensure that studies comply with regulatory guidelines and ethical standards, collect and analyze data, and help prepare reports for publication. Their work is essential in advancing medical knowledge and supporting the development of new treatments and therapies.

What are some common challenges faced by medical research associates when coordinating clinical trials?

Medical Research Associates often encounter challenges such as managing tight timelines, ensuring strict adherence to regulatory guidelines, and maintaining clear communication among diverse teams. Coordinating with investigators, sponsors, and regulatory bodies requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Additionally, balancing multiple studies simultaneously can be demanding, making effective time management and attention to detail essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Research Associate, you need a strong background in life sciences, data analysis, and clinical research methods, often supported by a relevant degree such as biology or pharmacology. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification, and statistical analysis software is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accuracy, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration in conducting and managing clinical studies.

What is the difference between Medical Research Associate vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectMedical Research AssociateClinical Research Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor’s degree in life sciences or related field; certifications like CCRP are commonBachelor’s degree in health sciences, nursing, or related; often holds certifications like CCRP or CCRC
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutionsHospitals, clinics, research sites
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, academic research centersHospitals, clinical trial sites, research organizations
Common Search & ComparisonMedical Research Associate vs Clinical Research Coordinator

Both roles involve coordinating and supporting clinical research, but Medical Research Associates typically focus on data collection, analysis, and supporting laboratory work, while Clinical Research Coordinators manage patient recruitment, scheduling, and regulatory compliance at research sites. The roles often overlap, but their primary responsibilities and work environments differ slightly.

Do I need a PhD to be a medical research associate?

A medical research associate typically does not need a PhD; a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences is usually sufficient. Relevant skills include attention to detail, data management, and familiarity with clinical trial protocols, and some positions may require certification or training in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Medical Research jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Medical Research Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Medical Research Associate job openings:

Medical Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,628 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Research Associate I

San Diego, CA

Veterans Medical Research Foundation of Sd
See more jobs at Veterans Medical Research Foundation of Sdexternal

$20 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description

Position Title: Research Associate

Position posting date: 08/20/26

Position start date: ASAP or until filled 

Salary/Range: Dependent on Experience (DOE)

Status: Casual/Intermittent (approximately 19 hours/wk.), not benefits eligible 

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, variable hours between 8:00am to 4:30pm

Service/Division: Research - Psychiatry

Job Code: AB 1409

Salary: $20.00- $21.00 per hour


Summary:

Research Associate activities include participant recruitment and screening, referral for brain imaging, and brain image collection and analysis. Administrative work will also be part of the position.


Duties and responsibilities:

Recruits research participants through established methods.

Assists in screening participant for brain imaging and referral to UCSD for brain imaging.

Assists in brain imaging procedure and data analysis.

Works with typical computer programs, such as Word, Excel, and Adobe.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in a related field from an accredited college or university AND at least 6 months of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.  

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