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Research Associate Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

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Clinical Research Associate II

Lexington, KY · Remote

Extensive experience as a Clinical Research Associate, with a strong understanding of clinical trial processes and regulatory requirements. * Proven ability to manage multiple sites and projects ...

University of Kentucky

Research Faculty

Lexington, KY · On-site

Posting Details Posting Details Job Title Research Faculty Requisition Number FE04803 Working Title Assistant, Associate, or Professor of Research for Department of Family & Community Medicine ...

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All JobsResearch Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs in Lexington, KY

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How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Lexington, KY is $28.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $32.36 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.
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Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,137 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Research Assoc Urban Ag & Controlled Env Ag

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY • On-site

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist the Principal Investigator and research team in planning, implementing, and conducting research projects related to urban agriculture, controlled environment agriculture, sustainable agriculture, and food systems.

  • Coordinate daily laboratory operations, including maintaining laboratory facilities, equipment, supplies, and inventory.

  • Conduct laboratory analyses, assist with experimental design, data collection, data management, and statistical analysis.

Job description

TITLE: Research Associate for Urban Agriculture and Controlled Environment Agriculture

DEPARTMENT: Cooperative Extension Program

REPORTS TO: Principal Investigator

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD WORK HOURS: 37.5 hours per week

LOCATION: On-Site Main Campus

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt 


JOB SUMMARY: 

The Research Associate for Urban Agriculture and Controlled Environment Agriculture provides research, laboratory, and technical support for projects within the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. The position assists the Principal Investigator (PI) with planning, conducting, and evaluating research focused on urban agriculture, controlled environment agriculture, sustainable agriculture, and food systems.


The Research Associate manages laboratory operations, supports research activities, maintains laboratory equipment, assists with data collection and analysis, prepares reports and scholarly publications, and provides technical guidance to faculty, staff, and students. The position also supports grant-funded research initiatives by assisting with project implementation, reporting, and proposal development.


This position requires regular on-campus attendance to support laboratory operations, collaborate with faculty, staff, and students, maintain research facilities, and conduct research activities. Employment in this position is contingent upon the continued availability of extramural grant funding.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Assist the Principal Investigator and research team in planning, implementing, and conducting research projects related to urban agriculture, controlled environment agriculture, sustainable agriculture, and food systems.
  • Coordinate daily laboratory operations, including maintaining laboratory facilities, equipment, supplies, and inventory.
  • Maintain, calibrate, troubleshoot, and ensure the proper operation of laboratory and research equipment.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain laboratory protocols, standard operating procedures, and safety practices.
  • Conduct laboratory analyses and assist with experimental design, sample preparation, data collection, data management, and statistical analysis.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records, research databases, spreadsheets, and documentation in accordance with University and funding agency requirements.
  • Assist faculty, staff, graduate students, and undergraduate students in the operation of laboratory equipment and research procedures.
  • Provide technical instruction and laboratory training to students participating in research projects.
  • Coordinate laboratory scheduling and assist with management of laboratory and research facilities.
  • Assist with the operation and maintenance of research greenhouse, controlled environment agriculture facilities, research plots, and other research areas as assigned.
  • Conduct collaborative and independent research related to sustainable agriculture, controlled environment agriculture, plant production systems, urban agriculture, food systems, and related disciplines.
  • Assist in developing educational demonstrations, workshops, and experiential learning opportunities that support research and student engagement.
  • Prepare annual, interim, and final reports for funding agencies and project stakeholders.
  • Assist with the preparation and submission of grant proposals and other external funding opportunities.
  • Prepare scholarly publications, technical reports, abstracts, posters, presentations, and other research communications.
  • Present research findings at professional meetings, conferences, workshops, and other educational events.
  • Assist in tracking graduate student applications, student research progress, and project documentation as assigned.
  • Collaborate with faculty, research staff, Extension personnel, industry partners, governmental agencies, and other stakeholders to advance research objectives.
  • Maintain compliance with University policies, laboratory safety procedures, grant requirements, and applicable regulatory standards.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission of Kentucky State University.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of laboratory operations, scientific research methods, and experimental design.
  • Knowledge of controlled environment agriculture, urban agriculture, sustainable agriculture, horticulture, plant science, food systems, or related disciplines.
  • Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and proper operation of scientific equipment.
  • Knowledge of research data collection, recordkeeping, database management, and statistical analysis.
  • Ability to establish laboratory protocols and maintain organized laboratory operations.
  • Ability to collect, analyze, interpret, and report research data accurately.
  • Ability to prepare technical reports, scholarly publications, grant proposals, and presentations.
  • Ability to operate laboratory instrumentation and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with faculty, staff, students, funding agencies, and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
  • Ability to supervise and mentor graduate students, undergraduate students, interns, and student employees participating in research activities.
  • Ability to manage multiple research projects and prioritize competing deadlines.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, spreadsheet software, database management systems, and statistical analysis software.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with research protocols and grant requirements.

 

 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: 

  • This position may provide functional supervision and technical direction to graduate students, undergraduate students, interns, temporary employees, and other research personnel participating in laboratory and research activities but does not have regular supervisory responsibility for full-time employees.


OTHER DUTIES: 

  • Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operational needs of Kentucky State University.


QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Master's degree in Controlled Environment Agriculture, Sustainable Agriculture, Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, Agriculture Education, Agribusiness, Food Systems, or a closely related field is required.
  • Experience conducting laboratory or applied agricultural research is required.
  • Experience with laboratory operations, scientific instrumentation, research data collection, and statistical analysis is preferred.
  • Experience preparing scholarly publications, technical reports, or grant proposals is preferred.
  • Experience supervising or mentoring students in laboratory or research settings is preferred.
  • Experience working with controlled environment agriculture systems, greenhouse production, hydroponics, urban agriculture, or sustainable food systems is preferred.

 


Licensing and Certifications:

  • Valid driver's license is required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain laboratory safety certifications and other University-required research training.
  • Ability to obtain or maintain certifications related to laboratory operations, food safety, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), or other research-related certifications is preferred.



WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Work is performed in laboratories, greenhouses, controlled environment agriculture facilities, offices, classrooms, agricultural research facilities, and outdoor field research locations.
  • Regular on-campus attendance is required to support laboratory operations, conduct research, supervise students, maintain equipment, and collaborate with faculty and staff.
  • Occasional travel within Kentucky and the continental United States may be required for research activities, conferences, meetings, workshops, field research, and professional development.
  • Requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, repetitive hand movements, and occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling equipment, supplies, or materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Work may involve exposure to laboratory chemicals, biological materials, agricultural environments, greenhouse conditions, outdoor weather conditions, and research equipment while following established safety procedures.



Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply.


KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform.