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Policy Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Keck Medicine of USC

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

A Research Associate position is immediately available in the laboratory of Dr. Ali Khoshnan. This ... Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen ...

East Carolina University

Research Associate

Greenville, NC · On-site

$41K - $73K/yr

Two doctoral degrees: the DrPH programs in Health Policy, Administration, and Leadership and ... The Research Associate will assist the Project Director and Project Manager in the coordination of ...

Urban Institute

$139K - $244K/yr

Conduct social policy research, using a variety of research methods. * Provide subject matter expertise and technical assistance to a wide variety of researchers, policymakers, nonprofit ...

Texas State University

Research Associate

San Marcos, TX · On-site

$4.4K - $5.0K/mo

Master's Degree in any field The Research Associate position assists the research team through ... to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex ...

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Policy Research Associate information

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How much do policy research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for policy 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 are common challenges policy research associates face when working on multiple projects?

Policy Research Associates often juggle several projects at once, each with different deadlines, stakeholders, and areas of focus. Managing competing priorities and adapting to shifting policy landscapes can be challenging, especially when new research requests arise unexpectedly. Successful associates develop strong time-management and organizational skills, regularly communicate with team members, and remain flexible to adjust their workload as project needs evolve. Collaboration and clear documentation also help ensure research quality is maintained across all assignments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a policy research associate?

To thrive as a Policy Research Associate, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a relevant degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Experience with data analysis tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), and policy databases is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are vital soft skills for this position. These skills are essential for producing accurate, influential policy analyses and supporting informed decision-making in government or nonprofit organizations.

What is the difference between Policy Research Associate vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy Research AssociatePolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; some roles prefer master'sBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in think tanks, NGOs, or government agenciesAnalysis and policy development, often in government, think tanks, or advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in research organizations, NGOs, government agenciesWidely used in government, think tanks, and policy consulting firms

Policy Research Associates primarily focus on gathering and analyzing data to support policy development, while Policy Analysts interpret data to recommend specific policy actions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, but their core functions differ in emphasis on research versus analysis.

What does a policy research associate do?

A Policy Research Associate is responsible for gathering, analyzing, and presenting data and information related to public policies. They support policy development by conducting research on social, economic, or political issues, evaluating policy impacts, and preparing reports or briefs for stakeholders. Their work helps organizations, government agencies, or advocacy groups make informed decisions and craft effective policies. They often collaborate with experts, attend policy meetings, and stay updated on relevant legislation or trends.
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Policy Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Research Associate

USC Gould School of Law

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$70K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Plans, designs and conducts highly technical and complex research projects independently and in consultation with supervisor. Analyzes research data and provides interpretations. Contributes to the development of research documentation for publication and/or prepares technical reports, papers and/or records.

A Research Associate position is immediately available in the laboratory of Dr. Ali Khoshnan. This role involves conducting critical experiments that support the specific aims of ongoing projects, funded by two sponsored grants. The ideal candidate will possess significant expertise in cell and molecular biology, systems biology, and advanced tissue culture. A doctoral degree in biological sciences or neuroscience, coupled with at least two years of relevant experience, is required. In this position, the Research Associate will focus on developing brain organoid models for Huntington's disease (HD). These models will be essential in testing the efficacy of novel biological therapeutics aimed at addressing the pathological changes induced by the gene implicated in HD. The Research Associate will play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of Huntington's disease and contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate
Minimum Experience: 1 year
Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education and experience in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.
The annual base salary range for this position is $70,000 - $76,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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