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Research Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Research associates are considered research faculty and receive generous benefits. For more information, please contact Prof. Juliet Gopinath via email: julietg@colorado.edu and Professor Wounjhang ...

About the Role As our first Research Associate, you will play a foundational role in building the operational infrastructure that makes Nourish's prospective clinical research possible -- owning the ...

Senior Research Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$74K - $90K/yr

Senior Research Associate: B.A or B.S. degree in chemistry, biochemistry or related area (or equivalent training) and 3-5 years of experience or a Master's degree and 2-4 years of experience. Salary ...

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Senior Clinical Research Associate As Clinical Research Associate you will be responsible for monitoring clinical trials and ensuring investigators are conducting the research within requirements of ...

Be Seen First

Senior Clinical Research Associate As Clinical Research Associate you will be responsible for monitoring clinical trials and ensuring investigators are conducting the research within requirements of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$17

$34

$49

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Colorado is $34.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.55 and $38.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is CRA an entry level job?

A Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is typically an intermediate to senior role that requires prior experience in clinical research, monitoring, or related fields. Entry-level positions in clinical research may be labeled as Clinical Research Coordinator or Research Assistant, with CRAs often needing relevant certifications and some industry experience. However, some companies offer entry-level CRA roles for candidates with strong educational backgrounds and related skills.

What are Research Associates?

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.

How much does a research associate earn?

Research associates typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Salaries can also vary based on geographic location and the organization’s size.

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 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 is the work of a research associate?

A research associate conducts experiments, collects and analyzes data, and supports the development of research projects in academic, scientific, or industry settings. They often use specialized tools and follow protocols to ensure accurate results and may assist in preparing reports or publications.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Research jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Associate jobs in Colorado? For Research Associate jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,172 per year, or $34.2 per hour.
Research Associate / Research Series Open Rank (up to Sr. Research Associate)

Research Associate / Research Series Open Rank (up to Sr. Research Associate)

University of Colorado

Aurora, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz

Department: SOM-MED-Bone Marrow Transplant - Meyer Lab

Job Title: Research Associate / Research Series Open Rank (up to Sr. Research Associate)

Position #00849978 - Requisition #40347

Job Summary:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is a world-class medical destination at the forefront of transformative science, medicine, education and patient care. The campus encompasses the University of Colorado health professional schools, more than 60 centers and institutes, and two nationally ranked independent hospitals - UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado - that treat more than two million adult and pediatric patients each year. Innovative, interconnected and highly collaborative, the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus delivers life-changing treatments, patient care and professional training and conducts world-renowned research fueled by over $757 million in research grants. For more information, visit www.cuanschutz.edu. 

The Division of Hematology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has an opening for a full-time Research Associate in the Meyer Laboratory. This position is expected to work independently under the guidance of the principal investigator. Projects will involve work with animal model and human patient sample experiments to investigate blood cancer biology and candidate regimens, extensive development and use of cutting-edge flow cytometry, molecular biology, experimental therapeutics studies on novel agents, and cell biology assays on rare bone marrow-derived hematopoietic populations. Specific duties include:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for conducting a pre-clinical evaluation of cell therapy approaches in murine models of type 1 diabetes and transplantation as well as performing immune monitoring of patients with type 1 diabetes or undergoing islet or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

  • Responsible for independently plan, execute and analyze experiments under supervision and will be responsible for communicating results through abstract presentations and publications.

  • There is a required ability to handle, breed and contribute to protocols that allow for the evaluation of mouse models.

  • Execute and process flow cytometry, ELISA, histology, RNA-Seq, TCR-Seq and other immune assays.

  • Process and perform experiments with human peripheral blood and contribute to biobanking of these samples.

  • Contribute to the training of graduate, medical and post-doctoral candidates.

  • Contributing to collaborations with the Barbara Davis Center and Gates Center pertaining to the clinical translation of advanced cell therapy approaches to the clinic.

  • Other duties as assigned

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite full time, in various sites on the Anschutz Medical Campus located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

The Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplant Laboratories, at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (CU), Denver is looking for a bright, creative and enthusiastic Research Associate in advancing their career in a new, high-impact laboratory headed by an energetic, recently recruited principal investigators, Dr. Everett Meyer. The lab is part of a richly collaborative interdisciplinary group of basic scientists and clinicians from immunology, hematology and molecular biology backgrounds with significant resources.

Why work for the University?

The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

  • Medical: Multiple plan options
  • Dental: Multiple plan options
  • Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
  • Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
  • Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year (based on percentage of time)
  • Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
  • Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
  • Holiday Days: 11/year
  • Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
  • ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

This is an open rank position and could be categorized as Research Associate or Senior Research Associate based on experience and qualifications as indicated below:

Research Associate:

  • A doctoral level degree (PhD, MD, MD/PhD) in immunology, stem cell biology, experimental hematology, molecular biology, or equivalent from an accredited institution.

  • At least one first-author publication in an internationally recognized, peer-reviewed journal.

  • One year experience or PhD.

Senior Research Associate:

  • A doctoral level degree (PhD, MD, MD/PhD) in immunology, stem cell biology, experimental hematology, molecular biology, or equivalent from an accredited institution.

  • At least one first-author publication in an internationally recognized, peer-reviewed journal.

  • Two-years' experience or PhD.

Conditions of Employment:

  • Candidate must be able to work with laboratory animals and animal tissues.

  • Candidate must meet eligibility requirements for NIH T32 and F32 postdoctoral fellowship awards.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Specific experience with leukemia research.

  • Graduate training in a biomedical laboratory setting, studying immunology, molecular biology, hematology and/or stem cell biology.

  • Experience with the use of advanced flow cytometry equipment (including LSRII and FACSAria II) for analysis and sorting of cells, and development of multicolor antibody staining panels.

  • Experience in mouse handling, husbandry and dissection.

  • Experience in experimental hematology and molecular biology assays and techniques, including HSC isolation and analysis, and high-throughput sequencing.

  • Candidates that have successfully obtained competitive, extramural funding during their doctoral studies are preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member within a research environment.
  • Ability to work efficiently and effectively with computer software including Microsoft Office.
  • Skilled with the use of aseptic mammalian cell culture techniques.
  • Skilled with common laboratory techniques and equipment consistent with PhD-level graduate training.
  • Ability to commit to an independent scientific career in stem cell biology, immunology, or a related field, with a proven high degree of independence and self-motivation to achieve these ends.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule based on the needs of the project.

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1.     Curriculum vitae / Resume

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.

Questions should be directed to: Daniel.Page@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:


Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by July 29, 2026.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

       Research Associate: $75,000 - $100,000.00

       Sr. Research Associate: $80,000 - $100,000.00

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.


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