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Research Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - West Region ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to ...

Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - West Region ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients ...

Join us in embracing research and science to impact the health and well-being of people all over the world. Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health ...

Join us in embracing research and science to impact the health and well-being of people all over the world. Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health ...

Join us in embracing research and science to impact the health and well-being of people all over the world. Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health ...

Join us in embracing research and science to impact the health and well-being of people all over the world. Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$17

$34

$49

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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.

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.

How much does a research associate earn?

Research associates typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, education, and industry. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and the organization’s size, with some roles offering additional benefits such as research funding or professional development opportunities.

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.

Is a research associate a good career?

A research associate role is a valuable entry-level position in academia, industry, or government, involving data collection, analysis, and reporting. It offers opportunities to develop research skills, collaborate with professionals, and advance to higher-level positions with experience and additional qualifications.
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 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,172 per year, or $34.2 per hour.

Research Associates I, II, III, IV and Senior - Open Pool

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$30K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description


The Department of Biology seeks applications from individuals who are interested in obtaining temporary or special research positions within the department in the areas of cell and molecular biology, physiology of plants or animals, animal behavior, ecology, evolutionary biology and computational/theoretical biology.
Some Research Associate positions may have the option to work remotely, but this will vary between the faculty labs within the department. Contact the individual faculty and their labs to learn more.
Work Unit Description
Detailed descriptions of the research programs of the individual faculty are available on the department web page: http://www.biology.colostate.edu/people/
Signing Bonus
Any signing bonus, up to $2,500, must be approved on a case-by-case basis by the hiring laboratory and departmental leadership.
Salary Range:
$30,000 - $60,000
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.

Conditions of Employment
Pre-employment criminal background check (required for new hires)
Supervision
This position reports to a faculty member within the Department of Biology. Day-to-day supervision and expectations are defined by the hiring laboratory.
Research Associate Level Requirements:
All applicants must hold at least a bachelor's degree in an appropriate discipline.
  • Level I is for individuals with less than 3 years of professional, post-baccalaureate experience.
  • Level II is for individuals with a Bachelor's degree and more than 3 years of relevant professional experience or a Master's degree.
  • Level III is for individuals with a Bachelor's and 5 years of experience or a Master's degree with 2 years of experience. Individuals with a PhD who have no experience may also be appointed to this position if appropriate.
  • Level IV is for individuals with a Bachelor's degree plus 10 years of experience, a Master's degree and 5 years of experience or a PhD with 2 years of experience.
  • The Senior Research Associate level is for individuals with a PhD plus 5 years of experience and demonstrated group leadership activities.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in an appropriate discipline by the start date.

Preferred Qualifications
Preferred qualifications vary by laboratory and may include:
  • Prior research experience in a relevant biological discipline.
  • Experience with laboratory, field, or computational research methods.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
  • Experience with data analysis, scientific writing, or specialized research techniques relevant to the hiring lab.

Application Instructions
To ensure full consideration, applications, resumes and cover letters must be received by 11:59 p.m. (MT) on December 31, 2026. Individuals wishing to be considered beyond this date must reapply.
In order to help screen all applications for potential openings, please email answers to the following questions to tyler.heyne@colostate.edu as soon as possible:
  • Please list your academic and/or professional degrees, including area(s) of study.
  • Please provide a one to two sentence summary of your research experience (300-character limit).

Please include the posting title and Requisition number in the subject line of your email when sending your answers
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.

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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

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