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Research Associate Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will receive professional development training, gain valuable networking experience, and collaborate with scientists in The Center for Drug Discovery, Bouve ...

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA

$60K - $85K/yr

Professor Tang is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in her laboratory. The selected candidate will perform basic research on diffusiophoresis in microfluidics channels experimentally.

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Research Associate information

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How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Boston, MA is $35.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $40.19 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
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What are popular job titles related to Research Associate jobs in Boston, MA? For Research Associate jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Research Associate job openings:
Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,530 per year, or $35.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate

NorthEastern

Boston, MA • On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

About the Opportunity

Job Summary:

The Center for Drug Discovery, in association with the Bouve College of Health Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Professor Lei Xie seek to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to train in interdisciplinary projects involving developing new AI-driven Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation methods and apply them to drug discovery in multiple disease areas. Preference will be given to applicants with prior training in Computer Science, Computational Biology, Computational Chemistry, and Computational Biophysics.

Extensive training opportunities cover all aspects of the drug discovery process. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will receive professional development training, gain valuable networking experience, and collaborate with scientists in The Center for Drug Discovery, Bouve College of Health Sciences, and the Institute of Experiential AI. They will also have access to personnel support, including graduate and undergraduate students, who will assist in conducting research projects. Additionally, the research scientist will have the opportunity to lead manuscript and grant writing and submit publications as the primary author.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Computer Science or equivalent

  • In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in MD simulation and molecular modeling

  • Experience in processing and analyzing protein structure and chemical genomics data

  • Familiar with use of high performance computing facilities

  • Ability to communicate with experimental chemists and biologists

  • Ability to develop research plans for executing strategy, data analysis/interpretation, and presentation of results

  • Ability to work effectively in a highly integrated team environment

  • Highly collaborative, self-motivated, and team-oriented individual

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills and demonstrated ability to write peer reviewed quality work or invention disclosures for patent applications, technical reports.

  • Consistent track record of accomplishments (e.g., peer-reviewed publications and/or patents).

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities:

Algorithm Development, Data Analysis and Communication:

  • Effectively design, implement, and evaluate machine learning and computational methods

  • Work with medicinal chemists for drug discovery projects

  • Act as key member of a multidisciplinary drug discovery project team, assisting with development of project strategy, and analysis and communication of complex data

  • Manage internal and external resources to deliver quality data in an efficient manner

  • Maintain a broad awareness of the scientific and technological landscapes of Artificial intelligence, machine learning, omics data integration, systems biology, biophysics, and drug discovery and maintain knowledge of literature related to the areas of research pursued

Scientific writing:

  • Contribute to patent, report, grant, and scientific publication writing

Training:

  • Mentor and train junior team members

Other:

  • Foster a culture of scientific excellence, teamwork, and rigorous innovation

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

108S

Expected Hiring Range:

$60,315.00 - $85,192.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.

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