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Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RD Partners

Research Associate I

Foster City, CA · On-site

$39.85/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

R&D Partners is seeking to hire a Research Associate I in Foster City, CA . Your main responsibilities as a Research Associate I: · Responsible for the expansion, maintenance, cryopreservation, and ...

Heluna Health

Research Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$32.96/hr

In this role, the Research Associate will assist with the administration of study surveys to participants and other study visit procedures. Recruitment Aspect: Conducting recruitment activities for ...

PBS Biotech

Research Associate

Camarillo, CA · On-site

We are seeking a full-time, highly motivated Research Associate to join our growing bioprocess R&D team. This position is an invaluable opportunity to gain experience working with cutting-edge ...

Heluna Health

Research Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$32.96/hr

In this role, the Research Associate will assist with the administration of study surveys to participants and other study visit procedures. Recruitment Aspect: Conducting recruitment activities for ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this role, you will support various research projects focusing on assay development and clinical validation.

PBS Biotech

Research Associate

Camarillo, CA · On-site

We are seeking a full-time, highly motivated Research Associate to join our growing bioprocess R&D team. This position is an invaluable opportunity to gain experience working with cutting-edge ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this role, you will support various research projects focusing on assay development and clinical validation.

Kelly Services

Research Associate

Pasadena, CA

$35 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position at a cutting-edge client in Pasadena, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

AccuScan Sciences

Research Associate

Milpitas, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AccuScan Sciences is seeking a dedicated Research Associate to join our innovative team. In this role, you will support various research projects focusing on assay development and clinical validation.

BillionToOne

Research Associate

Menlo Park, CA

$104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Research Associate position at BillionToOne is exceptionally rare at the undergraduate or early-career level. At BillionToOne, you will do much more than simply run routine protocols. Your work ...

Brandeis University

Research Associate I

Brandeis, CA · On-site

The Research Associate contributes to all phases and aspects of research projects as a member of interdisciplinary social science research teams. Primary responsibilities include grant writing ...

Kelly Services

Research Associate

Pasadena, CA

$35 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Research Associate Kelly ® Science & Clinical is seeking a Research Associate for a contract position at a cutting-edge client in Pasadena, CA . If you're passionate about bringing the latest ...

MEDVACON

Research Associate - pharma

Foster City, CA · On-site

This is a sample management and a logistics role for a Research Associate to join the Analytical Development team. Responsibilities include managing starting materials, in-process samples, and final ...

MEDVACON

Research Associate - pharma

Foster City, CA

This is a sample management and a logistics role for a Research Associate to join the Analytical Development team. Responsibilities include managing starting materials, in-process samples, and final ...

BillionToOne

Research Associate

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Research Associate position at BillionToOne is exceptionally rare at the undergraduate or early-career level. At BillionToOne, you will do much more than simply run routine protocols. Your work ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsResearch Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs in California

Research Associate information

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How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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.

What is a research associate?

Research Associates are professionals who support research projects in academic, scientific, or business settings. They assist with designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing reports or publications. Research Associates often work under the supervision of principal investigators or senior researchers, contributing their expertise to advance the goals of the project. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the field, but typically involve both administrative and hands-on research tasks.

What does a research associate do?

As a research associate, you conduct research and analysis as directed by a senior researcher or project manager. Researchers work in a number of fields, including medical science, the social sciences, natural sciences, finance, management, and academia. Your specific duties and responsibilities differ depending on the field in which you work, but some features of your work are similar across industries. You typically do primary and secondary source research, organize and process data, analyze said data, and report on your findings to lead researchers or clinicians.

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

To thrive as a Research Associate, you need a strong background in research methodology, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and research databases is often essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication skills set outstanding Research Associates apart. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective collaboration, and the production of reliable, impactful research outcomes.

What are some typical challenges a research associate might face when managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

As a Research Associate, juggling multiple projects often requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. You might encounter challenges such as balancing deadlines, coordinating with various team members, and adapting to shifting project goals or data requirements. Effective communication and proactive time management are essential to ensure each project progresses smoothly and meets its milestones. Many teams use project management tools and regular check-ins to help mitigate these challenges and support collaboration.

What is the difference between Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fieldMaster's or PhD in relevant field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, universitiesLaboratories, research institutions, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, non-profitAcademic, industry, biotech, pharma
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in their educational requirements and level of experience. Research Associates typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and assist in research projects, while Research Scientists usually have a PhD and lead research efforts. Both roles work in similar environments like labs and research institutions, but Research Scientists often have more independence and responsibility.

What qualifications do you need to be a research associate?

Research associates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with strong analytical skills, proficiency with research tools, and experience in data collection and analysis.
More about Research Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Research jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Associate jobs in California?

For Research Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research Associate job openings:

Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,799 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Research Associate II/ Senior Research Associate, Therapeutics

Epicrispr Biotechnologies

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Who Are We?
Our company is based on the science of our founder, Stanley Qi, one of the original CRISPR co-inventors who then furthered the technology so that DNA does not need to be cut to accomplish gene regulation. Instead, we regulate the epigenome to suppress and activate multiple genes simultaneously. We are further evolving the platform and leveraging its strengths to address unmet medical needs.
We are looking for exceptional team members who want an active role in building a rapidly growing biotech.
Title: Research Associate II/ Senior Research Associate, Therapeutics
Location: South San Francisco, CA
Department: Therapeutics
Reports To: Principal Scientist, Therapeutics
Opportunity:
Join our Therapeutics team as a Research Associate II or Senior Research Associate and help translate CRISPR-based epigenetic therapies into clinical candidates. You'll design and execute experiments, drive data-driven problem-solving, and take increasing ownership of projects targeting ocular and rare genetic diseases. This is an excellent opportunity to grow as a hands-on scientist in a dynamic biotech environment.
Position Summary
You'll be at the bench designing and executing the experiments that unlock the therapeutic potential of CRISPR-based gene regulation. In this role, you'll characterize novel therapeutics across multiple dimensions, activity, potency, mechanism of action, and translational viability using disease-relevant cellular models to answer the questions that move promising candidates forward.
We're looking for a research associate with hands-on mastery of molecular and cellular biology, gene editing technologies, and the ability to design experiments in a dynamic environment. If you've worked in ocular disease, gene therapy, or epigenetic regulation, you already speak our language.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, execute, analyze, and interpret in vitro experiments that support therapeutic candidate discovery and advancement.
  • Develop and optimize cellular assays to evaluate CRISPR-based epigenetic editing systems.
  • Generate high-quality datasets and apply rigorous analysis to support data-driven program decisions.
  • Partner closely with cross-functional teams to advance therapeutic programs.
  • Prepare tissue blocks in OCT, perform cryosectioning, immunofluorescence and fluorescent imaging.
  • Culture, engineer, and characterize mammalian cell lines, primary cells, and iPSC-derived disease models.
  • Perform molecular and cellular analyses including qPCR, RT-qPCR, digital PCR, western blotting, ELISA, flow cytometry, and next-generation sequencing-based assays.
  • Evaluate AAV delivery and activity of gene therapy modalities.
  • Maintain detailed and up-to-date experimental records and contribute to study reports and presentations.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and scientific advances in CRISPR, epigenetics, gene therapy, and ocular disease research.

Requirements
Research Associate II
  • B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, or related field.
  • 3-5+ years of relevant industry experience.

Senior Research Associate
  • B.S. or M.S. with 5-8+ years of industry experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently execute complex studies and contribute to experimental strategy.

Core Technical Skills
  • Strong molecular biology skills including nucleic acid extraction, PCR, qPCR, dPCR, cloning, and gene expression analysis.
  • Mammalian cell culture and cellular assay development experience.
  • Experience in working with human or mouse tissues, preparing frozen tissue blocks and cryosectioning.
  • Experience with viral vector systems (AAV/lentivirus).
  • Proficiency in flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, microscopy, and protein expression analyses.
  • Strong data analysis, experimental design, and troubleshooting skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in epigenetics, chromatin biology, transcriptional regulation, or gene expression control.
  • Experience working with ocular diseases.
  • Prior experience supporting preclinical therapeutic development programs in biotechnology or pharmaceutical settings.

The salary range for this position is $95,000 to $115,000 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.
Epicrispr Biotechnologies is an early-stage biotechnology company developing a novel technology platform that can provide safe and persistent control of targeted gene regulation. Our proprietary platform represents an entirely new class of therapeutics that can be leveraged to treat severe disease across numerous therapeutic areas, including complex diseases impacted by multiple genes.
Epicrispr Biotechnologies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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