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How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Amherst, MA is $32.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.82 and $36.44 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.
More about Research Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Amherst, MA?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Amherst, MA are:

What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Amherst, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Amherst, MA are:

What cities near Amherst, MA are hiring for Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Amherst, MA with the most Research Associate job openings:

Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Amherst, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 73% In-person, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,661 per year, or $32 per hour.

Post Doctoral Research Associate - BioPhysics

University of Massachusetts Amherst

Amherst, MA • On-site

$66K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

University Of Massachusetts Amherst rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Post Doctoral Research Associate - BioPhysics
Job no: 509360
Work type: Post Doc
Location: Amherst
Categories: On Site, Postdoctoral Research Associates, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, Full Time, Post Doc
Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate - BioPhysics
Executive Area: Academic Affairs
College/School/MBU: Public Health/ Health Sciences
Department: Kinesiology
Work Location: Amherst
Schedule: Full Time
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Job Summary
The Debold Muscle Biophysics Lab is seeking talented applicants for a full-time, Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the Kinesiology Department. This position will support a five-year grant from the NIH to study the molecular mechanisms underlying muscle contraction, intracellular transport, and the formation of complex cellular structures. The goal of this work is to understand how the load-dependent proteins of the molecular motor myosin enable it to perform complex cellular processes when working as a team of motors.
We are searching for a highly motivated single molecular biophysicist familiar with the laser trap and in vitro motility assays. These skills will be used to characterize the single molecule and mini-ensemble properties of three different classes of myosin: muscle myosin II, myosin III and myosin V. The goal of this project is to understand how the single molecule properties of these myosin's give rise to the complex behavior they demonstrate in multi-motor teams.
Essential Functions
Specific activities will include protein purification and preparation, fluorescence microscopy and data collection and analysis of data from the single molecule laser trap and in vitro motility assay.
Preparation and presentation of figures for presentation at national and international meetings, as well as for publication.
Writing manuscripts for publication in high impact journals.
Preference will be given to those with the ability to express and purify myosin proteins.
Minimum Qualifications
A PhD in Kinesiology or a related STEM field, including Biology, Physics, Chemistry or Biochemistry.
Demonstrated ability to present and publish research in biophysics or a related field.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with coworkers, students and collaborators.
Organizational skills to effectively manage and maintain large data sets.
High level of independence and reliability.
Demonstrated ability to publish in high-quality journals in kinesiology and/or neuroscience or related discipline.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with a single molecule laser trap assay.
The ability to manage large and complex data sets using MatLab, R or related programs.
The ability to isolate and/or express proteins and prepare them for use in functional assays.
Knowledge of fluorescence microscopy techniques including epi, TIRF and STORM.
Proficiency with LabView software.
Ability to rapidly learn new software platforms.
Additional Details
This position will require the successful candidate to work full-time (40 hours per week).
The work may require week and weekend hours to facilitate human subject recruitment and testing.
This is an in-person only position.
This is a 12-month appointment with reappointment contingent on funding and sufficient productivity (e.g. 2-3 first author publications per year).
This position is subject to final budgetary and administrative approval.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.
Work Schedule and Work Arrangement
M-F, variable
Some evening and weekends may be required.
Salary Information
For hires with 0-2 years of postdoc experience, UMass Amherst expects to pay between $62,838 and $65,138 for this position.
For hires with 3-4 years of postdoc experience, UMass Amherst expects to pay between $66,287 and $67,437 for this position.
Special Instructions for Applicants
Along with your application, please submit a cover letter describing your research experience, current research interests, and long-term professional goals; a current curriculum vitae; a recent publication in PDF format; and contact information for three professional references.
This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.
Advertised: 07 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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