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Principal Research Associate Jobs in Spring, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Principal Research Associate information

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How much do principal research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for principal research associate in Spring, TX is $28.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $32.93 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 near Spring, TX are hiring for Principal Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Spring, TX with the most Principal Research Associate job openings:

Principal Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Research Associate job openings in Spring, TX 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 $60,233 per year, or $29 per hour.

Research Associate - Electrophysiology

Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, TX • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Baylor College of Medicine rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Associate - Electrophysiology
Division: Neuroscience
Work Arrangement: Onsite only
Location: Houston, TX
Salary Range: $65,000- $70,000
FLSA Status: Exempt
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Summary
The St-Pierre lab develops and applies new tools for monitoring and interrogating brain activity with millisecond-timescale temporal resolution. We seek an energetic team member to lead our efforts to characterize and apply new light-responsive proteins in vitro and in vivo. The Research Associate will work on two types of tools: (1) genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs), fluorescent biosensors that report voltage as changes in brightness, and (2) optogenetic silencers, light-gated channels that inhibit neuronal firing. Characterization of these tools requires simultaneous electrophysiological recordings and optical excitation/imaging. This position provides exciting opportunities to work with the latest optical technologies and develop new skills in two-photon voltage
Job Duties
  • Culture mammalian cells
  • Prepare brain slices, dissociated neurons, or both
  • Conduct experiments that combine electrophysiology and either optogenetic activation or optical imaging (multi-photon fluorescence microscopy)
  • Maintain reagent and tool supply related to the experiments
  • Maintain an electrophysiological rig, and troubleshooting if needed
  • Analyze data using commercial software or customized data pipelines
  • Teach techniques, procedures, and experimental design to other members of the lab
  • Communicate research results in group meetings, national or international conferences
  • Plan, direct and conduct research experiments
  • Evaluate and analyze data
  • Develop research techniques and perform applications required for specific research projects
  • May conduct literature searches and summarize information in an appropriate format for a particular study
  • Document results of experiments and report to principal investigators
  • May supervise, schedule and coordinate the activities of less experienced research staff
  • Perform other job related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Basic Science or a related field. Experience in lieu of degree will not be accepted.
  • Three years of relevant experience typically as a Research Assistant, Research Technician or Postdoctoral Fellow/Associate.

Department Specific Criteria
  • Must have experience with performing electrophysiology in dissociated neurons, brain slices or both
  • Must have experience with dissecting rat cortical, hippocampal neurons, or both
  • Must have experience maintaining an electrophysiology rig

Preferred Qualifications
  • Doctoral degree
  • Ability to express transgenes in neurons of brain slices using viruses and/or in utero electroporation
  • Experience with imaging neural activity (e.g. voltage or calcium) in brain slices or in vivo, using 1P and/or 2P imaging

Work Authorization Requirement:
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment.
Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.
NN; SN
Requisition ID: 25299

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