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Research Associate Professor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Howard

Assistant/Associate Professor

Seeley, CA · On-site

We are seeking to hire an Assistant/Associate Professor. The Department of Pediatrics and Child ... Research expertise in social and environmental determinants of health employing artificial ...

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Research Associate Professor information

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$44.9K

$99.5K

$117.9K

How much do research associate professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for research associate professor in California is $99,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Associate Professor, you need a strong background in your academic discipline, a doctoral degree, and a proven record of independent research and scholarly publications. Proficiency with advanced research methodologies, statistical analysis software, and grant writing tools is typically required. Leadership, collaboration, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for mentoring students, managing research teams, and disseminating findings. These abilities are essential for advancing research agendas, securing funding, and contributing to the academic community.

What are some common challenges research associate professors face when balancing research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities?

Research Associate Professors often juggle multiple priorities, including leading research projects, mentoring graduate students, teaching courses, and participating in departmental service. Managing time effectively is a common challenge, as research deadlines and grant applications may overlap with teaching and administrative obligations. Developing strong organizational skills and setting clear priorities can help address these challenges. Collaborating with colleagues and delegating tasks when appropriate also supports a more balanced workload.

What is a research associate professor?

Research Associate Professors are senior-level academic professionals who primarily focus on conducting research within a university or research institution. Unlike traditional professors who may balance both teaching and research, Research Associate Professors often have limited teaching responsibilities and instead lead or contribute to research projects, secure research funding, and publish scholarly articles. They typically hold a doctoral degree and have substantial experience in their field, contributing significantly to advancing knowledge and innovation.

What is the difference between Research Associate Professor vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch Associate ProfessorResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a Ph.D. in a relevant fieldUsually holds a Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research universitiesResearch labs, industry, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily academia, research-focused institutionsIndustry, government, private sector research
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic career pathsCompared for industry research roles

The Research Associate Professor role is primarily academic, focusing on research and teaching at universities, often requiring a Ph.D. and experience in academia. In contrast, a Research Scientist typically works in industry or government labs, focusing on applied research and development. Both roles require advanced degrees but differ in work environment and career focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Professor jobs in California? The most popular types of Research Professor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Associate Professor jobs in California? For Research Associate Professor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate Professor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate Professor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Research Associate Professor jobs? Cities in California with the most Research Associate Professor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Research Associate Professor jobs in CA? For Research Associate Professor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Research Associate Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate Professor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,521 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Department of Physics - Assistant/Associate Professor, Tenure Track

La Sierra University

Riverside, CA

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Department of Physics invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position to begin on one of two possible starting dates as follows: January 1, 2027 or July 1, 2027, at assistant professor or associate professor rank. Applicants must meet the University's requirements for faculty rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, including a terminal degree earned in the field, and demonstrate a clear potential for excellence in teaching and research. Candidates near the completion of a terminal degree will also be considered.

The successful applicant will be responsible for teaching about 2-3 lecture courses and 1-2 lab courses per quarter, conducting original research, advising, and serving on various committees on campus. Candidates with expertise in any area of physics or biophysics are encouraged to apply, with preference given to those who can teach upper division biophysics courses.

While full-faculty are paid throughout the 12 months of the year, the appointment is for the 9-months academic year. Initially, the primary responsibilities will be focused on teaching lower division service courses with their associated labs. It is expected that over time the teaching load will adjust to include upper division physics or biophysics courses, as needed. Other responsibilities will be to conduct original research while involving undergraduate students and participating in committee service as part of the shared governance model of La Sierra University.

The successful candidate will 1) effectively teach a variety of physics and biophysics courses to a diverse student body, promoting both accessibility and high achievement, 2) successfully interact with students in a lab setting and in office hours, 3) supervise student lab assistants, 4) involve students in research while teaching them skills to be successful independent and creative thinkers who can contribute to the scientific community, and 5) regularly attend departmental faculty meetings, school meetings, and school/university committees. This position does not require applying for external grants for funding research, but it is encouraged.

Qualifications 

Candidates are required to have a PhD in physics, biophysics, or a related field. Significant teaching experience at the undergraduate level is desired, including both lower division service courses and upper division major courses.  Post-doctoral experience with a track record of sustainable original research is preferred. To be considered for the rank of associate professor, a candidate must have a teaching and research record lasting at least five years, including at least two publications as primary author. Preference will be given to candidates who are Seventh-day Adventist.

Salary Wage Range: $70,304 to $78,501 plus generous benefits: 

Assistant professor - PhD $70,304

Associate professor - PhD $71,872 - $78,501

Benefits include:

  • Comprehensive health coverage 
  • Tuition Assistance (spouse and dependent eligibility)
  • FSA, Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Protections Services, and more!

Apply