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Museum Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Museum of Science

Research Associate

Boston, MA · On-site

The Museum's singular location connecting Boston and Cambridge puts us at the junction of some of ... Why We Need You The Research Associate supports the Advancement team by conducting prospect ...

Tamus

Research Associate

College Station, TX · On-site

Job Title Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Department Biology Proposed Minimum Salary ... and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a ...

Tamus

Research Associate

College Station, TX · On-site

$3.7K/mo

Job Title Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center Department Pharmacy ... Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but witha ...

Tamus

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Bryan, TX · On-site

$5.4K/mo

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center ... Museum, and much more await you.Experience all that a big city has to offer but witha ...

Tamus

Senior Research Associate

College Station, TX · On-site

Job Title Senior Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Department Psychology Proposed ... and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a ...

Tamus

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Bryan, TX · On-site

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Health Science Center ... Museum, and much more await you.Experience all that a big city has to offer but witha ...

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How much do museum research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum research associate?

Museum Research Associates are professionals who conduct research to support a museum’s exhibitions, collections, educational programs, and publications. They often analyze artifacts, documents, and historical records to provide accurate information about items in the museum’s collection. Their work helps ensure that exhibits are well-researched and that the museum serves as a credible source of knowledge for the public. Research Associates may also collaborate with curators, educators, and other museum staff on various projects.

How does a museum research associate typically collaborate with curators and other museum staff on exhibition projects?

Museum Research Associates play a crucial role in supporting exhibition projects by conducting in-depth research on objects, artists, and historical contexts. They frequently collaborate with curators to gather and verify information for exhibit labels, catalogs, and educational materials. Additionally, Research Associates may work alongside educators, registrars, and conservators to ensure accuracy in content and help develop engaging narratives for the public. This collaborative environment not only fosters teamwork but also provides valuable exposure to various aspects of museum operations.

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

To thrive as a Museum Research Associate, you need expertise in art history or a related field, strong research skills, and typically a master's degree or higher. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital archives, and research databases is often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication help you excel in documenting artifacts and presenting findings. These skills ensure the integrity of museum collections and support educational and curatorial initiatives.

What is the difference between Museum Research Associate vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum Research AssociateMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in history, archaeology, or related fieldMaster's or PhD in relevant discipline, with more experience
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in labs or archives within museumsOversees collections, exhibitions, and educational programs
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, research institutions, universitiesMuseums, cultural institutions, galleries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in museumsUnderstanding curatorial responsibilities

The Museum Research Associate primarily focuses on conducting research, analyzing artifacts, and supporting museum projects, often with a background in research or academic credentials. In contrast, a Museum Curator manages collections, develops exhibitions, and oversees educational programs. While both roles work within museums, the Research Associate is more research-oriented, whereas the Curator has broader responsibilities related to collections management and public engagement.

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Museum Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Research Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Research Associate

Museum of Science

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Conducts research on individuals, corporations, and foundations to support donor identification and qualification

  • Maintains accurate and up-to-date research information within CRM systems

  • Partners with Advancement staff to fulfill research requests and provide timely information

Job description

Who We Are

As science and technology increasingly shape our lives, the Museum of Science strives to equip and inspire everyone to use science for the global good while keeping up with the pace of change. Among the world's largest science centers and New England's most attended cultural institution, we engage nearly five million people a year - at Science Park and in museums around the world, in classrooms, and online.

The Museum's singular location connecting Boston and Cambridge puts us at the junction of some of the world's most influential academic institutions and industries, local and state government, schools, and the public. Trusted by each sector, we are ideally positioned to convene, inspire, and create meaningful experiences for all. Come join us on our mission to inspire a lifelong love of science in everyone and living our vision for a world where science belongs to each of us for the good of all of us.

Why We Need You

The Research Associate supports the Advancement team by conducting prospect research and providing insights that inform donor engagement and fundraising strategy.

This role plays an important part in identifying and qualifying prospective donors, maintaining accurate and useful data, and ensuring that fundraisers have the information they need to effectively engage supporters. Through strong research practices and attention to detail, this role contributes to building and sustaining a robust donor pipeline.

What You'll Accomplish

Prospect Research & Analysis

  • Conducts research on individuals, corporations, and foundations to support donor identification and qualification
  • Assists in developing prospect profiles, including background information, giving capacity, and areas of interest
  • Gathers and synthesizes information from a variety of sources to support fundraising strategy

Data Management & CRM Support

  • Maintains accurate and up-to-date research information within CRM systems
  • Supports data entry, validation, and quality control processes related to prospect research
  • Ensures consistency and integrity of donor and prospect data

Fundraiser Support & Collaboration 

  • Partners with Advancement staff to fulfill research requests and provide timely information
  • Supports preparation for donor meetings, events, and leadership engagement
  • Collaborates with Research Manager and Advancement Operations to align research efforts with broader strategy

Process Support & Continuous Improvement

  • Assists in maintaining research tools, templates, and processes
  • Identifies opportunities to improve efficiency and organization of research workflows
  • Contributes to ongoing efforts to enhance data quality and research practices 

What We're Looking For (Competencies)

The Research Associate brings strong curiosity and analytical thinking, with the ability to gather, interpret, and synthesize information from multiple sources. This individual is detail-oriented and takes care to ensure accuracy and consistency in all research and data management activities.They are organized and reliable, able to manage multiple tasks and requests while maintaining a high level of quality and follow-through. The role requires the ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively with colleagues, providing information in a way that is useful and actionable for fundraising efforts.

This individual is comfortable working with data and systems and demonstrates a willingness to learn new tools and processes. They are proactive in seeking out information, asking questions, and improving their work over time. A strong sense of accountability, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to supporting the Museum's mission are essential, along with an interest in contributing to successful fundraising through thoughtful and well-executed research.

How We Work-Our Values

Mission-Focused: We inspire a lifelong love of science in everyone.

Audience-Driven: Everything we do begins with the people we serve.

Innovative: We are curious, take smart risks, share responsibility, and own outcomes.

Generous: We offer time and energy towards common goals. 

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