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Research And Development Associate Jobs in Kentucky

Harris

Associate, Corporate Development

Canada, KY · On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

Harris' Frontline portfolio is looking for a Corporate Development Associate responsible for ... Research industry dynamics to identify acquisition/investment news, competitive tenders ...

Danaher

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Lexington, KY · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Owensboro, KY · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Frankfort, KY · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Covington, KY · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Louisville, KY · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

ijwwhiskey

Associate Chemist

Louisville, KY

$23.25 - $30.75/hr

Position Summary The Associate Chemist supports research and development activities for alcoholic beverage products through analytical testing, sensory evaluation, method execution, and laboratory ...

IJW Whiskey Company

Associate Chemist

Louisville, KY · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Position Summary The Associate Chemist supports research and development activities for alcoholic beverage products through analytical testing, sensory evaluation, method execution, and laboratory ...

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All JobsResearch And Development Associate JobsResearch And Development Associate Jobs in Kentucky

Research And Development Associate information

See Kentucky salary details

$25.2K

$46.4K

$70.4K

How much do research and development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development associate in Kentucky is $46,395.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,900.00 and $52,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research And Development Associate vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectResearch And Development AssociateQuality Control Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or engineeringBachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, product development teamsManufacturing facilities, labs, quality assurance departments
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, consumer goods, biotech companiesFood production, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Research And Development Associates focus on creating and improving products through experimentation and innovation, working mainly in labs and development teams. Quality Control Technicians primarily ensure product quality by testing and inspecting products during manufacturing. While both roles require scientific knowledge and lab skills, R&D Associates are more involved in development, whereas QC Technicians focus on quality assurance during production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research and development associate?

To thrive as a Research and Development Associate, you need a strong background in scientific research, data analysis, and typically a relevant degree such as in chemistry, biology, or engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software, and research documentation systems is commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovation, ensuring accurate results, and effectively collaborating on new product or process development.

What are some common challenges research and development associates face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Research and Development Associates often encounter challenges when shifting from academia to industry, such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, balancing multiple concurrent projects, and focusing on practical, commercially viable solutions rather than purely theoretical research. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—like marketing, production, and quality assurance—is also more prevalent, requiring strong communication and project management skills. Embracing a results-driven approach and learning to effectively communicate findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders are key to success in this role.

What is a research and development associate?

Research and Development (R&D) Associates are professionals who support the creation and improvement of products, services, or processes within an organization. They typically conduct experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with scientists, engineers, or product managers to innovate and solve technical challenges. R&D Associates play a vital role in helping companies remain competitive by driving new ideas from concept to reality. Their work often involves staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and scientific advancements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research And Development jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Research And Development Associate jobs in Kentucky? For Research And Development Associate jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research And Development Associate jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Research And Development Associate jobs in Kentucky are:
Research And Development Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research And Development Associate job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,395 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Director for Research and Economic Dev

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

TITLE: Director for Research and Economic Development

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources / Land Grant Program

REPORTS TO: Dean, College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

LOCATION: On-Site Main Campus

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the general direction of the Dean, College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, the Director for Research and Economic Development provides strategic leadership in advancing research partnerships, economic development initiatives, and external engagement activities for the College and Land Grant Programs. The position is responsible for developing and sustaining collaborations with public and private sector partners, including industry, government, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions to support applied research, workforce development, and experiential learning opportunities.

The Director leads efforts to strengthen Kentucky State University’s research enterprise and economic development impact with particular emphasis on agriculture, food systems, natural resources, aquaculture, equine industries, and related sectors. This position exercises independent judgment in developing partnerships, managing complex initiatives, and aligning external engagement strategies with institutional priorities. This role requires a regular, reliable, and consistent on-campus presence to effectively perform leadership, coordination, and stakeholder engagement responsibilities and is not suitable for remote work except as approved in accordance with University policy.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Provides strategic leadership for research development, external partnerships, and economic development initiatives aligned with the College and Land Grant Program mission.
  • Develops and implements strategies to establish and expand partnerships with private industry, public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions.
  • Builds and manages a portfolio of research and economic development initiatives, including planning, budgeting, implementation, logistics, risk management, and reporting.
  • Cultivates and sustains relationships with stakeholders in agriculture, food and beverage industries (including bourbon and spirits), equine industries, natural resources, and related sectors.
  • Facilitates collaboration between University researchers, faculty, students, and external partners to support applied research, innovation, and workforce development initiatives.
  • Coordinates cross-functional project teams and ensures alignment of deliverables, timelines, and resource allocation with strategic objectives.
  • Provides leadership in developing experiential learning opportunities, including internships, summer programs, and workforce development initiatives across the College and Land Grant Programs.
  • Supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of youth programs, workforce development initiatives, and extension-related training activities.
  • Prepares annual reports and performance summaries, including evaluation of program outcomes, stakeholder engagement, and initiative effectiveness.
  • Analyzes program data and identifies opportunities for continuous improvement and expanded impact.
  • Serves as liaison to internal and external stakeholders, including industry partners, government agencies, community organizations, and professional associations.
  • Represents the College and Land Grant Programs at meetings, conferences, events, and stakeholder engagement activities.
  • Provides training and support materials for extension associates, youth programs, and workforce development initiatives.
  • Maintains a complex schedule of engagements, meetings, and project activities while ensuring effective prioritization and execution of responsibilities.
  • Exerts independent judgment in resolving complex issues related to partnerships, program development, and project execution.
  • Maintains a regular, reliable, and consistent on-campus presence to effectively perform the essential functions of the position.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

  • Knowledge of research administration, economic development, and industry partnership development.
  • Knowledge of agricultural systems, food and beverage industries, equine industries, natural resources, or related sectors.
  • Knowledge of program development, project management, and evaluation methods.
  • Strong ability to develop and sustain partnerships with public and private sector organizations.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and strategic planning skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple complex projects and initiatives simultaneously.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies including industry leaders, government officials, faculty, staff, students, and community stakeholders.
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions in complex and dynamic environments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and project management tools.
  • Ability to prepare reports, analyze program data, and support performance evaluation.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

  • This position has supervisory responsibility for professional staff, project personnel, and assigned programmatic initiatives.


OTHER DUTIES:

  • The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master’s degree from an accredited institution in Public Administration, Business Administration, Economic Development, Community Development, Agricultural Economics, Education Leadership, Sociology, or a closely related field is required.
  • Doctoral degree is preferred.
  • Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in economic development, research administration, public-private partnerships, community development, or a related field is preferred.
  • Experience in higher education, extension programming, or applied research environments is strongly preferred.



Licensing and Certifications:

  • Valid drivers’ license.



WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Work requires frequent travel, including in-state, out-of-state, and occasional national travel via automobile or air transportation.
  • Work may involve exposure to varying environmental conditions including outdoor settings, agricultural environments, and event-based activities.
  • Work may require standing, walking, and occasional lifting up to 40 pounds.
  • Frequent interaction with external stakeholders, industry partners, government agencies, and community organizations is required.
  • Occasional evening and weekend work may be required based on program and event schedules.



Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.


KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.