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Research Associate Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

As a Clinical Research Associate at ICON, you will play a pivotal role in designing and analyzing clinical trials, interpreting complex medical data, and contributing to the advancement of innovative ...

We are currently seeking a Clinical Research Associate (Level II or Senior) to join our diverse and dynamic team. As a CRA II/Senior CRA at ICON, you will play a pivotal role in designing and ...

Supervise and mentor a cadre of research associates implementing research and monitoring activities, including field and laboratory research, spatial analysis, decision support, and technical writing

Supervise and mentor a cadre of research associates implementing research and monitoring activities, including field and laboratory research, spatial analysis, decision support, and technical writing

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Research Associate information

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$14

$29

$42

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Utah is $29.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $33.70 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 Utah? The most popular types of Research jobs in Utah are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Associate jobs in Utah? For Research Associate jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Research Associate job openings:
Clinical Research Associates (CRA)

Clinical Research Associates (CRA)

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Details
Open Date 07/14/2026 Requisition Number PRN45648B Job Title Clinical Research Associates (CRA) Working Title Research Associate Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P3 - Career FLSA Code Administrative Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
Monday - Friday
VP Area U of U Health - Academics Department 00269 - Orthopedic Surgery Operations Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $65,000 Close Date 10/14/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
The Research Associate supports the laboratory's research mission through leadership of research studies, development of competitive grant proposals, scholarly dissemination of findings, and mentorship of students and research personnel. This position provides expertise in biomechanics, motion analysis, computational modeling, and statistical methods while contributing to the laboratory's scientific productivity and long-term research objectives.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
Responsibilities
Research Leadership
  • Lead study design, data collection, and statistical analysis activities for ongoing research projects.
  • Serve as a primary scientific contributor to the development and submission of a NIH R01, including generation and analysis of preliminary and pilot data.
  • Assist in the preparation, writing, and submission of peer-reviewed manuscripts.
  • Spearhead dissemination of research findings through scientific publications, presentations, and reports.
  • Collaborate with investigators and research partners to develop innovative research questions and methodologies.

Research Compliance
  • Maintain compliance with Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements through study documentation, protocol management, continuing reviews, amendments, and report preparation.
  • Ensure accurate and complete documentation of research procedures and study records.
  • Support adherence to institutional, sponsor, and regulatory requirements for human subjects research.
  • Technical Responsibilities
  • Validate and verify research algorithms, analytical methods, and software tools.
  • Develop and maintain shared laboratory code, software workflows, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Develop biomechanical and computational models of human joints and musculoskeletal systems.
  • Collect, process, and analyze motion capture and related biomechanical datasets.
  • Implement and improve data processing pipelines and analytical workflows to support laboratory research objectives.

Mentorship and Training
  • Train and mentor students, staff, and trainees in image processing, biomechanical analysis, motion capture methods, and MATLAB-based workflows.
  • Provide technical guidance and support on laboratory software, coding practices, and data analysis techniques.
  • Promote best practices in data management, reproducible research, and scientific computing.
  • Assist in the professional development of undergraduate, graduate, and research personnel.

Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Clinical Research Associate (CRA), III: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.

Preferences Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1850