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Research Associate Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Clinical Research Associate (Sr. CRA) is an experienced clinical operations professional responsible for managing site monitoring and relationship activities across multiple clinical ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Associate's degree in a related field * Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal ... Two years of equivalent research experience * Previous experience in a clinical, medical, or ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Associate's degree in a related field * Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal ... Two years of equivalent research experience * Previous experience in a clinical, medical, or ...

We are a highly collaborative team of researchers and scientists from diverse fields who, together, share in their passion for improving health and safety and strengthening communities. Every day we ...

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Research Associate information

See Montana salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Montana is $29.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $33.99 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 Montana?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Montana are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Montana are hiring for Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Montana with the most Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,125 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate, L.S. Skaggs Institute for Health Innovation

University of Montana

Missoula, MT • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


University Of Montana rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

370th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The L.S. Skaggs Institute for Health Innovation (SIHI) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct innovative, community-engaged research that translates community-informed priorities into real-world health solutions. Embedded within a growing regional ecosystem for rural health innovation and translational science, the position will engage in ongoing projects while developing an independent research direction in collaboration with academic, clinical, community, and industry partners.
This position is designed to support early-career investigators seeking to develop an independent research trajectory aligned with SIHI's mission to partner with communities to expand access to care and emerging health innovations. The successful candidate will receive mentorship in multiple research methodologies-including community-based participatory research, interventional research, and implementation science-and gain experience in study design, implementation, analysis, and dissemination of research. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will also gain experience developing competitive proposals for external funding.
Primary responsibilities:
  • Design and conduct translational and/or community-engaged research studies
  • Collaborate with community, rural, and Tribal partners to co-develop research questions and study approaches
  • Lead or contribute to manuscript development, abstracts, and scientific dissemination
  • Support pilot project development and preliminary data generation for external funding proposals
  • Contribute to federal grant submissions (e.g., NIH, NSF, foundation funding) and pursue development awards to support independent research activities
  • Apply quantitative and/or qualitative methods to analyze data
  • Participate in interdisciplinary research teams across SIHI and university partner.

Research areas will be tailored to an individual's interests, with potential focus areas including:
  • Development of new health products, services, or practices
  • Population health and health outcomes
  • Community-based participatory research methods
  • Data science and bioinformatics
  • Precision medicine and pharmacogenomics

The Postdoctoral Research Associate may also have opportunities for teaching experiences within the University of Montana (UM). Teaching experiences will be mentored by UM faculty and may include didactic instruction and/or mentorship of undergraduate or graduate students. The Postdoctoral Research Associate may also participate in faculty development opportunities offered at UM.
Position Details
Schedule: One year Letter of Appointment beginning fall semester 2026Salary: $63,482/year. Salary aligns with the National Research Service Award (NRSA) Stipends for Fiscal Year 2026
Benefits: Medical Insurance/Mandatory Retirement Contribution/Professional Development/Partial Tuition Waiver/Wellness
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Doctoral degree (PhD, PharmD, DrPH, or equivalent) from an accredited graduate program in a discipline related to biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacy, public health, or a related field
  • Demonstrated research experience (e.g., dissertation, publications, or equivalent scholarly work)
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across disciplines

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in community-engaged, rural health, or Tribal health research
  • Training in clinical and translational research methods
  • Track record of research publications and grant involvement
  • Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including community partners

Application Instructions
Screening of applications will begin after the closing date of August 4, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.
To apply, please upload the following materials:
  • Letter of Interest - addressing the stated required skills for the position
  • Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
  • Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of "mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

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