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Principal Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Moffitt

Research Associate I

West Covina, CA

$18.19 - $27.83/hr

Research Associates work under the general supervision of a Principal Investigator (Pl) and may work as part toof a team under the direct supervision of more senior lab personnel. Research Associates ...

Cedars Sinai

Research Associate I, Dou Lab

Tarzana, CA · On-site

$25 - $30.46/hr

Working independently but in close cooperation and in consultation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientists on the team, the Research Associate will perform routine and complex ...

NCIRE

Staff Research Associate I

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Staff Research Associate I is responsible for participating in the day-to-day operations of routine, minimally complex clinical research programs and/or studies conducted by Principal ...

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All JobsPrincipal Research Associate JobsPrincipal Research Associate Jobs in California

Principal Research Associate information

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$16

$32

$46

How much do principal research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for principal research associate in California is $32.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a principal research associate make?

A principal research associate typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often hold advanced degrees and have specialized skills in research methodologies and data analysis.

What is the difference between Principal Research Associate vs Senior Research Associate?

AspectPrincipal Research AssociateSenior Research Associate
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD, relevant research experienceMaster's degree, significant research experience
Work EnvironmentLead research projects, mentor junior staffConduct research, support project goals
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, biotech, academiaSimilar industries, often overlapping roles

The Principal Research Associate typically holds a higher level of responsibility, leading projects and mentoring others, whereas the Senior Research Associate focuses on executing research tasks and supporting project objectives. Both roles require advanced degrees and research experience, but the Principal Research Associate is more involved in strategic planning and leadership within research teams.

What is a principal research associate?

A Principal Research Associate is a senior-level research professional who leads and manages scientific research projects within an organization, often in academia, biotechnology, or pharmaceuticals. They are responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, supervising junior staff, and ensuring that the research meets regulatory and quality standards. Principal Research Associates often collaborate with cross-functional teams, contribute to publications, and may be involved in grant writing or project proposals. This role requires significant experience in the field, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of research methodologies.

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

To thrive as a Principal Research Associate, you typically need an advanced degree in a scientific discipline, strong expertise in experimental design, and significant hands-on laboratory experience. Proficiency with specialized lab equipment, data analysis software (such as GraphPad Prism or FlowJo), and familiarity with regulatory standards like GLP or GMP are often required. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and leadership abilities help you excel in managing projects and mentoring junior staff. These skills and qualifications are crucial for generating reliable research results, ensuring compliance, and driving scientific innovation within the organization.

How does a principal research associate typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a research setting?

As a Principal Research Associate, you will frequently work alongside scientists, project managers, and other research professionals to advance complex studies. Collaboration often involves coordinating experimental design, sharing data, and troubleshooting protocols with team members from different specialties, such as analytical chemistry, biology, or clinical operations. Clear communication and the ability to translate technical findings for non-specialist colleagues are key. This collaborative environment not only accelerates project milestones but also provides opportunities to learn from diverse experts and contribute to multidisciplinary solutions.
What cities in California are hiring for Principal Research Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Principal Research Associate job openings:
Principal Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,799 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Analytical Chemistry Principal Research Associate

Vrtx

San Diego, CA • On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Description

Vertex is seeking an on-site Principal Research Associate, Analytical Chemistry to support medicinal chemistry programs through small molecule purification, analytical characterization, property assays and workflow optimization. This role will focus on HPLC and SFC purification, with a strong emphasis on SFC expertise, to help deliver high-quality compounds and data that enable rapid discovery efforts.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Purify small molecules using HPLC and SFC in support of medicinal chemistry programs.
  • Develop and optimize SFC purification methods, including chiral and achiral separations.
  • Perform analytical testing to confirm purity, identity, and quality of compounds.
  • Run small molecule property assays such as solubility, lipophilicity, and stability assessments.
  • Partner closely with medicinal chemists to support project timelines and compound delivery needs.
  • Troubleshoot purification and assay issues and help improve lab workflows.
  • Maintain accurate records and clearly communicate results to project teams.
  • Support routine operation and maintenance of chromatography instruments.

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Small molecule purification and characterization
  • Laboratory data systems and electronic lab notebooks
  • Familiarity with discovery informatics or compound tracking systems
  • Experience with software development, scripting, or coding
  • Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage priorities, and drive technical work with limited oversight

Education and Experience:

  • Requires a Master's and 2+ years, or a Bachelor's and 5+ years of experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience supporting small molecule discovery or medicinal chemistry programs
  • Strong hands-on experience with HPLC and/or SFC purification
  • Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills

#LI-KM1

#LI-Onsite

Pay Range:

$85,700 - $128,500

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Onsite

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com

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