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Research Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Yecuris Corporation

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Research Associate III

Portland, OR · On-site

$62K - $75K/yr

Research Associate III Full Time, Exempt Employee Job Reference ID: 21306261 Location: Tigard, OR Job Summary: Yecuris' cutting-edge liver-humanized animal models and services provide researchers ...

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Senior Clinical Research Associate

Portland, OR · On-site

$110K - $138K/yr

Senior Clinical Research Associate - Oncology - West Region ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to ...

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Contract Senior CRA

Portland, OR · Remote

As a Clinical Research Associate at ICON, you will play a pivotal role in designing and analyzing clinical trials, interpreting complex medical data, and contributing to the advancement of innovative ...

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All JobsResearch Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Research Associate information

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$17

$34

$49

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Portland, OR is $34.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.79 and $39.28 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Research jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR? For Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Research Associate job openings:
Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,781 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Research Associate

Research Associate

Oregon Health & Science University

Portland, OR • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Overview

The Department of Pediatrics is recruiting for a Research Associate position at .50 to 1.0 FTE. Specific FTE rate will be discussed prior to job offer.

Function/Duties of Position

The Research Associate will independently lead research projects focused on identifying oncogenic signaling pathways and therapeutic vulnerabilities in cancer.

The individual will contribute to study design, develop and optimize experimental methodologies, execute molecular, cellular, and in vivo research programs, analyze and interpret data, and independently manage designated project components. The Research Associate will be expected to exercise scientific judgment in experimental planning, troubleshooting, and prioritization while working collaboratively with the Principal Investigator and research team.

The position includes responsibility for development of laboratory procedures, training and mentoring junior personnel, contributing to manuscripts and grant applications, and ensuring rigorous and reproducible research practices. The individual will contribute scientific and technical expertise to laboratory research activities and support the advancement of multiple research initiatives.

Required Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in biological sciences fieled or relevant field AND 3 years of relevant experience OR Bachelor's Degree in biological sciences field or relevant field AND
  • 5 years of relevant experience.
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize competing deadlines.
  • Commitment to rigorous record keeping and reproducibility.
  • Collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Masters degree in biological science, biochemistry or biomedicine.
  • 3 or more years of relevant laboratory experience.
  • Experience executing functional perturbation experiments (e.g., CRISPR, RNAi, or small molecule studies)
  • Experience with in vivo tumor models and/or pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies.
  • Experience with data analysis, figure preparation, and scientific presentation.
  • Prior contribution to manuscripts or grant applications
  • Experience mentoring or supervising learners.
Additional Details

Working Conditions:

Location of employment is within a mammalian cell culture, biochemistry and molecular biology research lab. Work involves possible exposure to viral vectors (retroviral and lentiviral), non-replicating infetious viral particles, malodorous vapors, toxic chemicals and acids, presence of carcinogenic substances and human and animal tissues and fluids, including whole animals.

Apply here online.

Upload cover letter and resume.  Please be sure to include months and years (MM/YYYY format) to the resume for jobs/work experience.

*OHSU Employees be sure to apply using your OHSU email.*

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887

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