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Research Associate Jobs in Edmonton, AB (NOW HIRING)

University of Alberta

Research Assistant

Edmonton, AB · On-site

This position provides support to clinical research studies in the Department of Critical Care Medicine, ranging from in-house investigator research to industry sponsored research. The position is ...

University of Alberta

Research Assistant

Edmonton, AB · On-site

Our department members are engaged in exciting research endeavors, contributing to excellence in pediatric care. Additionally, we offer a diverse array of accredited residency training programs ...

University of Alberta

Research Scientist

Edmonton, AB

CA$65K - CA$73K/yr

The Research Scientist will join a project related to liquid biopsies for cancer and novel imaging development and testing. This will involve development of novel assays to quantify levels of miRNA ...

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Research Associate information

See Edmonton, AB salary details

$9

$26

$41

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Edmonton, AB is $26.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $31.25 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.
More about Research Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Edmonton, AB? The most popular types of Research jobs in Edmonton, AB are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Edmonton, AB look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Edmonton, AB are:
What cities near Edmonton, AB are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Edmonton, AB with the most Research Associate job openings:
Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Edmonton, AB as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,772 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Research Associate

University of Alberta

Edmonton, AB

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

This position has an initial appointment until December 31, 2028.

Location -   This role is in-person primarily at North Campus, Edmonton and various sites in Edmonton.

Position Summary

This position offers an exciting opportunity for an individual with strong expertise in plant pathology, molecular biology, quantitative genetics, and statistical analysis to contribute to cutting-edge research on economically important diseases affecting field crops in the Canadian Prairies, including canola, soybean, and pulse crops. The successful candidate will be engaged in an integrative research program that combines field, greenhouse, and laboratory approaches to advance our understanding of pathogen biology, host-pathogen interactions, and the environmental drivers of soilborne and vascular diseases. A key focus of the role is the development of practical, science-based disease management strategies that directly support sustainable agricultural production.

The incumbent will play a central role in designing, coordinating, and executing diverse research activities, ranging from large-scale field experiments and greenhouse pathogenicity assays to pathogen isolation, identification, and advanced molecular and genomic analyses. The position also involves robust quantitative data analysis using modern statistical tools such as R, ensuring high-quality interpretation and dissemination of research findings. In addition, the role supports collaborative initiatives between the University of Alberta and industry partners, including the evaluation of seed treatments, resistance screening programs, and innovative disease management technologies across multiple crops and pathogen systems.

Within the Plant Pathology research program, the successful candidate will provide technical leadership and continuity across ongoing projects, while actively mentoring graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate trainees in experimental design, laboratory techniques, and data analysis. The role also includes responsibility for managing research resources, coordinating procurement of materials, and ensuring adherence to laboratory safety and regulatory standards. Through these integrated activities, the position contributes to advancing fundamental and applied knowledge of crop diseases, strengthening industry-academic partnerships, and supporting resilient and sustainable crop production systems in Canada.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Metis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms - physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Metis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L'Universite de l'Alberta s'engage a creer une communaute universitaire ou chaque personne se sent valorisee, ou les obstacles a la reussite sont elimines et ou des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se developper. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiees. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premieres nations, Metis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapees; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identite et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer a la diversification des idees et a l'universite a postuler.
The Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences is a leader in teaching, research, and community engagement across diverse fields including food systems, sustainable resource management, human ecology, and environmental sociology. With more than 500 faculty and staff, over 1,500 undergraduates, and 600 graduate students, the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences leverages 25,000 acres of research land across Alberta to deliver high-impact academic programs and applied research in partnership with industry and communities.
  • Ph.D. in Plant Science, Plant Pathology, or a closely related discipline. 
  • Minimum of three years of postdoctoral research experience in plant pathology, with emphasis on diseases of major field crops in the Canadian Prairies. 
  • Extensive knowledge of soilborne and vascular diseases affecting canola, cereals, soybean, and pulse crops, including pathogen biology, disease epidemiology, and host-pathogen interactions.
  • Demonstrated expertise in research on Verticillium stripe of canola caused by Verticillium longisporum, including pathogen isolation and characterization, pathogenicity testing, and host resistance evaluation under Prairie conditions. 
  • Experience conducting pathogen surveys, disease diagnostics, resistance screening, and integrated disease management research for economically important crop diseases in western Canada. 
  • Expertise in the biology and epidemiology of soilborne pathogens, including inoculum production, microsclerotia development, germination, and environmental influences on disease development.
  • Experience investigating the interactions between abiotic stresses, including drought and salinity, and plant disease development in greenhouse and controlled-environment studies. 
  • Proficiency in molecular, genomic, and microbiological techniques used in plant pathology research, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR-based diagnostics, pathogen identification, and transcriptomic analyses. 
  • Advanced skills in experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and statistical modeling using specialized software, including R. 
  • Demonstrated ability to design, coordinate, and manage complex research projects across field, greenhouse, and laboratory environments. 
  • Experience collaborating with industry partners and multidisciplinary research teams on applied crop protection and disease management initiatives. 
  • Strong record of scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences. 
  • Proven ability to mentor and train graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduate trainees in experimental methodologies, laboratory techniques, and data analysis. 
  • Demonstrated ability to contribute to the preparation and development of competitive research grant proposals and funded research projects. 
  • Strong organizational, communication, leadership, and project management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your cover letter and resume.

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package with an annual salary range of $63,465 - $79,339.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule E of the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.
 

Research Design and Project Development

  • Plan & Coordinate: Support research projects on economically vital field crops (canola, soybean, pulse crops).
  • Experimental Design: Formulate field, greenhouse, and lab experiments targeting pathogen biology, host interactions, and disease epidemiology.
  • Methodology & Funding: Refine experimental workflows and contribute directly to competitive grant applications and project proposals.

Field, Greenhouse, and Laboratory Research

  • Trials & Assays: Coordinate large-scale field trials (crop management, disease assessment) and lead greenhouse pathogenicity assays.
  • Pathogen Characterization: Isolate, identify, and maintain pathogen cultures using classical and molecular techniques.
  • Molecular Analysis: Conduct genomic and transcriptomic studies, including DNA/RNA extraction and PCR assays.

Data Analysis and Scientific Reporting

  • Biostatistics: Manage experimental datasets and execute statistical modeling using R.
  • Workflows: Develop data pipelines to ensure high quality, reproducibility, and rigorous management across projects.
  • Dissemination: Interpret results to frame disease management recommendations and co-author scientific manuscripts and technical reports.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Technology Evaluation: Design and execute trials for seed treatments, genetic resistance, and crop protection tech.
  • Knowledge Transfer: Communicate findings to industry partners, stakeholders, and funding bodies via meetings and conferences.

Mentorship and Research Training

  • Technical Leadership: Guide and mentor graduate students, undergraduates, and postdoctoral fellows.
  • Skill Development: Train team members in experimental design, field methodologies, and data analysis to foster a collaborative culture.

Laboratory and Research Infrastructure Management

  • Operations & Safety: Maintain laboratory and greenhouse facilities while ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations and routine inspections.
  • Resource Coordination: Manage procurement, maintain long-term pathogen collections, and organize research databases.

Apply