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Research Associate Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Senior Research Associate Syneos Health is a leading fully-integrated life sciences services organization built to accelerate customer success. We partner with innovators at every point across the ...

The Research Associate supports the development of high-quality studies, projects, and convening activities through research, analysis, technical writing, program coordination, and meeting-related ...

$56K - $70K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY The Research Associate develops pertinent background research and drafts background papers. Performs research and analysis and prepares preliminary outlines of projects. Prepares data ...

$56K - $70K/yr

THE OPPORTUNITY The Research Associate develops pertinent background research and drafts background papers. Performs research and analysis and prepares preliminary outlines of projects. Prepares data ...

Contract CRA

Covington, KY · On-site

$90 - $100/hr

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Clinical Research Associate (CRA) to support a Phase 3 clinical trial in the Kidney transplant therapeutic area. The ideal candidate will have a ...

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Research Associate information

See Kentucky salary details

$14

$28

$40

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Kentucky is $28.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $32.16 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.

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.

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 Kentucky?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,787 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Senior Research Associate

Syneoshealth

Canada, KY • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Syneos Health rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Senior Research Associate

Syneos Health is a leading fully-integrated life sciences services organization built to accelerate customer success. We partner with innovators at every point across the drug development and commercialization continuum, helping them navigate complexity, anticipate change and accelerate progress.
Our Clinical Solutions team members act with a drug development mindset, applying their years of experience and deep expertise to truly understand customer needs and represent those in the solutions we shape.
Whether you join us in a Functional Service Provider partnership or a Full-Service environment, you'll collaborate with passionate problem solvers, innovating as a team to help our customers achieve their goals. We are agile and driven to deliver - for one another, our customers, and, most importantly, for those in need.
Discover what your 25,000 future colleagues already know:
Why Syneos Health
We are passionate about developing our people, through career development and progression; supportive and engaged line management; technical and therapeutic area training; peer recognition and total rewards program.
We are committed to building an inclusive culture - where you can authentically be yourself. Central to this is our purpose - Driven to Deliver - which captures the passion of our colleagues to show up each day and shape solutions that have the ability to dramatically impact someone's life.
We are continuously building the company we all want to work for and our customers want to work with. Why? Because we know that when we bring together smart colleagues from across the world, we can shape the future of healthcare, driving impact for customers and defining the pace of patient progress.

Job Responsibilities

JOB TITLE: Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, Real World Evidence

SELECT ONE: Clinical Solutions

JOB CODE: SH1317/ SH1323

REPORTS TO: Associate Director, Real World Evidence; or designee

Business Unit: Real World & Late Phase (RWLP)
Industry: Life Sciences
Location: US or Canada (Hybrid/Remote)

Position Overview

The Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, Real World Evidence (RWE) is part of the global Real World & Late Phase (RWLP) Business Unit, supporting the generation of real-world evidence, and patient outcomes evidence across the drug development lifecycle.

In this role, you will contribute to and or lead real-world research initiatives that inform clinical strategy, regulatory engagement, and market access decisions for life sciences clients. Working closely with senior team members, you will support the design and execution of retrospective and prospective studies while developing your expertise in RWE and outcomes research methodologies.

This position is well suited to professionals seeking meaningful exposure to or to deepen their expertise in evidence generation within a collaborative, well-supported team environment that values high-quality work and sustainable performance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Contribute to study design and methodology development
  • Develop innovative approaches, frameworks and solutions to client problems
  • Deliver project outputs that meet established quality standards, timelines, and budget requirements.
  • Conduct structured literature reviews and targeted secondary research to support RWE initiatives.
  • Participate in qualitative research activities, including patient interviews, to generate actionable healthcare insights.
  • Analyze and interpret qualitative and quantitative 'real-world' data for deliverables
  • Conduct workshops and moderate discussions
  • Present results to external clients
  • Contribute to the development of:
    • Study protocols
    • Technical reports
    • Manuscripts and scientific posters
    • Client presentations
  • Develop and format materials using PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
  • Summarize and synthesize complex clinical and outcomes data into clear, structured findings.
  • Support retrospective and prospective real-world studies under senior guidance.
  • Demonstrate openness to leveraging emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools, to improve efficiency, analytical rigor, and personal productivity.

Qualifications

Required

  • Master's degree in public health, epidemiology, health sciences, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
  • 1-2 years (Research Associate), or 2+ years (Senior Research Associate) of relevant experience within the life sciences industry (e.g., HEOR, RWE, clinical research, pharmaceutical industry, healthcare consulting, or academia).
  • Foundational understanding of real-world research methodologies and study design.
  • Overall understanding of the drug development lifecycle.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • Working knowledge of statistical software (e.g., SAS, R, Stata, or similar).
  • Business-level conversational English (written and spoken).

Preferred

  • Graduate degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant discipline.
  • Academic or industry research experience.
  • Conducting analyses in databases and/or registries

Key Competencies

  • Clear and professional communication skills
  • Strong teamwork and collaboration
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a structured, deadline-driven environment
  • Intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous improvement, including adoption of new technologies
  • Willingness to travel (~10%)

Work Environment

As part of a global RWLP team, you will work within an international, cross-functional environment with access to experienced mentors and structured development opportunities. Our hybrid model offers flexibility, and our team culture emphasizes high standards, collaboration, and sustainable performance to support long-term career growth in the life sciences industry.

Get to know Syneos Health


Over the past 5 years, we have worked with 94% of all Novel FDA Approved Drugs, 95% of EMA Authorized Products and over 200 Studies across 73,000 Sites and 675,000+ Trial patients.

No matter what your role is, you'll take the initiative and challenge the status quo with us in a highly competitive and ever-changing environment. Learn more about Syneos Health.

http://www.syneoshealth.com

Additional Information


Tasks, duties, and responsibilities as listed in this job description are not exhaustive. The Company, at its sole discretion and with no prior notice, may assign other tasks, duties, and job responsibilities. Equivalent experience, skills, and/or education will also be considered so qualifications of incumbents may differ from those listed in the Job Description. The Company, at its sole discretion, will determine what constitutes as equivalent to the qualifications described above. Further, nothing contained herein should be construed to create an employment contract. Occasionally, required skills/experiences for jobs are expressed in brief terms. Any language contained herein is intended to fully comply with all obligations imposed by the legislation of each country in which it operates, including the implementation of the EU Equality Directive, in relation to the recruitment and employment of its employees. The Company is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including the provision of reasonable accommodations, when appropriate, to assist employees or applicants to perform the essential functions of the job.


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