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Research Associate Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Research Associate

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

As a Senior Research Associate, you will participate in the development of genomic assay technologies and contribute to Freenome's multiomic product portfolio aimed at early cancer detection. You ...

As a Senior Research Associate, you will participate in the development of genomic assay technologies and contribute to Freenome's multiomic product portfolio aimed at early cancer detection. You ...

Senior Research Associate

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Senior Research Associate Onyx Bio -- Berkeley, CA (On-site) Company Overview Onyx is building a virtual immune system for faster and safer development of precision medicines. Our research generates ...

About the Role We are seeking an experienced, motivated and detail‑oriented full‑time Research Associate to join our hibernation team. In this role, you will contribute directly to advancing our ...

Access on-demand professional development resources that allow you to hone existing skills and learn new ones "I can succeed as a Fundamental Research Group (FRG) Associate at Capital Group." As one ...

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Showing results 41-60

Research Associate information

See Novato, CA salary details

$19

$38

$55

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Novato, CA is $38.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $43.46 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Novato, CA?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Novato, CA are:

What cities near Novato, CA are hiring for Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Novato, CA with the most Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,467 per year, or $38.2 per hour.

Senior Research Associate

Freenome

Brisbane, CA • On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

About this opportunity:
At Freenome, we are seeking a Senior Research Associate to help grow the Freenome Genomic Early Development team. As a Senior Research Associate, you will participate in the development of genomic assay technologies and contribute to Freenome's multiomic product portfolio aimed at early cancer detection. You will work closely with Scientists, Automation Engineers, and Computational Biologists to develop, optimize, and characterize efficient automated workflows to improve experimental and clinical throughput in a regulated high throughput environment. You will also work with Operations, Quality, and Regulatory to transfer complex methodologies, processes, and assays to Operations to ensure the highest quality data is produced by our clinical lab. You are passionate about contributing to developing life-saving diagnostics through early cancer detection, and you will have a significant impact on the continued growth of an organization dedicated to changing the entire landscape of cancer.
The role reports to the Senior Manager of Genomic Early Development team. This role will be an Onsite role based in our Brisbane, California headquarters.
What you'll do:
  • Apply hands-on knowledge of molecular biology, nucleic-acid biochemistry and next generation sequencing to develop and optimize NGS based methods and processes following principles of Design Controls for IVD development.
  • Design and perform experiments to develop, optimize, and characterize NGS workflow including DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing.
  • Operate and maintain NGS related instruments such as automated liquid handlers, PCR instruments, and sequencers.
  • Conduct new reagents testing and develop reagent quality control methods.
  • Participate in troubleshooting issues, identify and implement process improvement for the entire analytical workflow.
  • Collaborate with research, computational scientists, and automation engineers to transfer research prototype assays from Research to Development.
  • Collaborate with Quality Control Lab, Manufacturing lab, Quality, and Regulatory to transfer reagent quality control methods and manufacturing processes from Development to Operations and support the implementation of the methods and processes in Operations.
  • Accurately record results in electronic lab notebooks, author work instructions and record forms, contribute to writing study protocols and reports. Diligently apply current Good Laboratory and Documentation Practices (cGLP, cGDP).

Must haves:
  • Bachelor's in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field with at least 4 years of experience in the life sciences or Master's in molecular biology or a related field.
  • Hands-on experience in Next-gen sequencing (NGS) based assay development including extraction, library preparation, target capture, and sequencing.
  • Familiarity with molecular biology, genomics, NGS, assay development, sample preparation, reagent handling, or related laboratory workflows (e.g. plasma separation processes, DNA/RNA extraction, purification, and quantification, NGS library preparation).
  • Experience designing, planning, and executing successful experiments, interpreting results, preparing data for review, and giving effective scientific presentations.
  • High attention to detail and ability to record accurate and detailed observations, assess impact, and perform troubleshooting as required.
  • Ability to manually pipette with high confidence, accuracy, and precision.
  • Clear and proactive communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with team members in the same and adjacent disciplines.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to contribute the design and implementation of new processes.
  • Flexible and highly motivated to learn new skills and comfortable adapting to changing priorities.

Nice to haves:
  • Experience in working with with methylated ctDNA/cfDNA as an analyte in liquid biopsy workflows.
  • Experience with automated liquid handlers, laboratory information systems, sample tracking systems, and equipment scheduling/status tools.
  • Familiarity with programing in a scientific programming language (e.g., Python or R).

Benefits and additional information:
The US target range of our base salary rate for new hires is $97,850 - $126,000. You will also be eligible to receive equity, cash bonuses, and a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits depending on the position offered. Please note that individual total compensation for this position will be determined at the Company's sole discretion and may vary based on several factors, including but not limited to, location, skill level, years and depth of relevant experience, and education. We invite you to check out our career page @ freenome.com/job-openings/ for additional company information.
Freenome is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer, and we value diversity. Freenome does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws.
  • Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
  • Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)

California applicants please review the CCPA Notice at Collection here:
  • California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

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