1

Research Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate I/II

Boulder, CO · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Research Associate I: Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; 0+ years experience Research Associate II: Bachelor's degree with 2+ years experience or Master's with 0+ years ...

Research Associate

Boulder, CO · On-site

$76K - $118K/yr

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the team. The candidate will be responsible for conducting process R&D activities for developing and optimizing enzymatic ligation and downstream processes ...

Market Research Associate

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$15.16 - $17.16/hr (+ commission)

Join the vibrant world of C&C Market Research, where we've honed our craft for over 30 years, mastering the art of data collection! At C&C, we're dedicated to delivering top-notch data to our clients ...

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 ...

ASSOCIATE, EQUITY RESEARCH

Denver, CO · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Associate, Equity Research About the Firm: Monticello Associates, LLC is an investment consulting firm serving foundations, endowments, and family office clients in an investment advisory capacity.

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$17

$34

$49

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,172 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

HDFS - Research Associate I, II, or III - Open Pool

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$40K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

464th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Position Summary
The Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Colorado State University seeks applications for temporary or special Research Associate I, II, or III.
Research Associates work under the direction of individual faculty members and contribute to ongoing research activities specific to each lab. Duties, funding source, appointment length, and work modality (in-person, hybrid, or remote) vary by faculty lab. These positions include interaction with the Principal Investigator as well as other research assistants. These individuals will be part of a team of researchers completing a federally funded research project and will have a broad range of responsibilities.
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date; the Department has limited funds and may not sponsor a new H1B visa for this position.
Salary Range
$40,000 - $85,000
Essential Job Duties
Essential job duties vary depending on the hiring laboratory and research program, but may include:
  • Conducting laboratory, field, or computational research activities.
  • Collecting, managing, and analyzing research data.
  • Assisting with experimental design and protocol implementation.
  • Maintaining laboratory equipment, materials, and documentation.
  • Contributing to manuscripts, reports, and presentations.
  • Collaborating with faculty, staff, graduate students, and other research personnel.

Specific duties will be defined at the time of hire by the supervising faculty member.
Conditions of Employment
Pre-employment criminal background check (required for new hires).
Supervision
This position reports to a faculty member within the Department of Human Development and Family Studies. Day-to-day supervision and expectations are defined by the hiring laboratory.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree that reflects training in Human Development and Family Studies, Nutrition, Health and Exercise Science, Public Health, or related field.

Research Associate Level Requirements
  • Research Associate I: Bachelor's degree and fewer than 3 years of relevant, post-baccalaureate professional research experience.
  • Research Associate II: Bachelor's degree with more than 3 years of relevant professional research experience, or a Master's degree.
  • Research Associate III: Bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of relevant professional research experience, or a Master's degree with at least 2 years of experience. Individuals with a PhD and no prior experience may be appointed at the Research Associate III level, if appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications
Preferred qualifications vary by laboratory and may include:
  • Prior research experience and training with human subjects.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Experience in observational research, surveys and questionnaires preferred.
  • Other research experience with data collection and analysis, familiarity with Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and a statistical software package preferred.
  • Prior experience in the day-to-day organization of research projects, including recruitment of and contact with study participants, coordination of data collection activities, and data management.

Application Instructions
To apply, submit a cover letter which addresses the minimum and preferred qualifications, and a current resume or CV. Applications will be reviewed as hiring needs arise, and qualified applicants may be contacted by individual faculty members if a suitable opportunity becomes available.
This evergreen posting will remain open and continue collecting applications until December 31, 2026. Applicants who wish to be considered after this date must reapply.
Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
  • Review our detailed benefits information here.
  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
  • Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all 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.

What Colorado State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Colorado State University logo

About Colorado State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Collins, CO, US

Year founded

1870

Social media