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Research Associate Jobs in Amherst, MA (NOW HIRING)

RD SOLUTIONS INC

Data Scanning Associate

Easthampton, MA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Research Associate Are you tired of being unsure how much your delivery/driver job will pay? Will the customer tip? We have a great side hustle job for you! Our jobs are preplanned with a flexible ...

RetailData

Data Scanning Associate

Easthampton, MA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

As a Research Associate, you can enjoy the flexibility of choosing when and how much you earn. All you need is reliable transportation to start making money. Why scan with RDSolutions? Choose your ...

Danaher

R&D Internships

Springfield, MA · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

UMass Amherst

Research Contract Specialist

Amherst, MA · On-site

Research Contract Specialist Executive Area: Research and Engagement College/School/MBU: Research and Engagement Department: VC Research & Engagement Work Location: Amherst Schedule: Full Time Work ...

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Research Associate information

See Amherst, MA salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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.
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 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,661 per year, or $32 per hour.

Post Doctoral Research Associate - Rothchild Lab

UMass Amherst

Amherst, MA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate - Rothchild Lab

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Veterinary & Animal Sciences

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule:Full Time

Work Arrangement:Onsite

Job Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Alissa Rothchild in the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our collaborative team to study the role of alveolar macrophages in the context of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a pathogen of global health significance.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct and support multiple NIH-funded projects and collaborations to characterize pulmonary macrophage innate sensing pathways, cell death, vaccine mechanisms of protection, and innate-adaptive crosstalk in the lung. The research group applies approaches across multiple disciplines including immunology, microbiology, lung biology, and systems biology in a fast-paced and supportive environment. The Postdoctoral research associate will be expected to work closely with other lab members and lead projects independently, in partnership with Dr. Rothchild. Enthusiasm, organization, communication skills, and initiative to learn new methods are essential. Training in immunology and microbiology techniques that are unfamiliar to the candidate will be provided.

Essential Functions

Cell culture of primary murine and human cells.
Assays such as flow cytometry, ELISA, microscopy, gene expression analysis, and genomics.
Culture of bacterial pathogens under Biosafety Level 2 and 3 (BSL2 and BSL3) conditions.
Infection of primary cells and mice with bacterial pathogens.
Small animal handling and procedures, such as vaccination and adoptive transfer.
Data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, and oral presentations.

Other Functions

Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Minimum Qualifications

PhD in Biological Sciences, Immunology, Cell and Molecular Biology, or Microbiology.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with immunological assays and cell phenotyping (i.e. flow cytometry, cell culture, ELISA, microscopy) and small animal handling and procedures.
Background in bacterial microbiology and/or experience working in Biosafety Level 3 facility.
Experience with computational biology and genomics analysis (i.e. RNA-seq, ATAC-seq).

Additional Details

How do innate immune cells in the lung balance their roles as pathogen sentinels and regulators of inflammation? How does prior exposure or vaccination alter their homeostatic functions and interactions with other immune cells? Can these cells be therapeutically targeted to improve host defense or limit pathology in the context of infectious disease? These are just a few of the questions the Rothchild lab seeks to answer visit our website to learn more.
UMass Amherst provides state-of-the-art core facilities, dedicated career development support, and diverse mentoring opportunities. The College of Natural Sciences houses a vibrant and engaged life sciences research community, with additional support from the Institute for Applied Life Sciences. The Rothchild lab is an active member of local and international TB research communities and provides opportunities for travel to national and international scientific conferences.
At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. These values and goals are reflected in the College of Natural Science' Inclusive Excellence framework and in the UMass Amherst's For the Common Good: 2024-2034 Strategic Plan.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a laboratory or healthcare setting and may involve exposure to chemicals or infectious diseases. Requires standing for extended periods of time and/or use of protective gear.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
Occasionally hours may change depending on needs of the lab and the timing of experiments.

Salary Information

Salary minimum is determined by collective bargaining agreement based on years of experience. Salary may exceed the floor and will be determined by the PI.
Current floors based on 100% time, 40 hours/week:
0-2 years $62,838
3-4 years $66,287
5+ years $71,033

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with the application, please submit a curriculum vitae, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) 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.

Apply