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Research Associate Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

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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 Santa Rosa, CA is $35.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.65 and $40.48 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.
More about Research Associate jobs

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

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

What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

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

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

Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,003 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Senior Research Associate, Protein Sciences

Petaluma, CA • On-site

Kelly Services
See more jobs at Kelly Servicesexternal

$50 - $60/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Kelly® Science & Clinical is seeking a Senior Research Associate, Protein Sciences and Microbiology, for a contract-to-hire opportunity with an innovative biotechnology and medical device company in Petaluma, CA. If you are driven by the prospect of translating cutting-edge scientific discoveries into tangible advancements and are poised to advance your career, join us as we pioneer progress in the biotechnology and medical device industries.
Workplace: Onsite in Petaluma CA.
Position Title: Senior Research Associate, Protein Sciences and Microbiology
Position Type: Contract-to-hire
Pay rate: $50-60 per hour.
Company: Kelly® Science & Clinical
Client Overview:
Our client is a leader in developing and manufacturing advanced antimicrobial technologies for medical and consumer applications. They specialize in innovative anti-infective scientific pipeline and are committed to innovation, safety, and regulatory excellence.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Associate Scientist to join our dynamic research team focused on protein chemistry. The successful candidate will primarily work on the characterization and analysis of proteins within human serum, contributing to advancements in understanding protein interactions and functions.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct experiments involving extraction, purification, and analysis of proteins from human serum.
  • Utilize various techniques such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, and electrophoresis for protein characterization.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to design and implement research projects.
  • Analyze and interpret data, prepare detailed reports and presenting findings at team meetings.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
Qualifications
  • BS/MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
  • 5–7 years of relevant hands-on research experience within the pharma/biopharma industry
  • Expertise in protein manipulation: expression, purification (affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion), and characterization (SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, mass spectrometry, etc.).
  • Knowledge of microbiology and experience running and maintaining bacterial cultures
  • Familiarity with basic GMP concepts, data integrity standards, and scientific writing of protocols or SOPs.
  • Strong analytical skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot complex experimental challenges.
  • Effective communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with paraben, preservative, and bioburden testing
  • Experience supporting small molecule drug discovery programs
  • Exposure to IND or regulatory document preparation
Why Join Us:
  • Competitive compensation package and potential for permanent placement following the temporary period.
  • Opportunity to work at the forefront of biotechnology innovation in a collaborative and dynamic environment.
  • Access to ongoing career development and networking opportunities through Kelly® Science & Clinical's expansive network of industry experts and recruiters.
If your qualifications align with the requirements of this role, we invite you to apply and take the next step in your career journey. Rest assured, even if this opportunity isn't the perfect match, your profile will remain within our network, ensuring you're connected to a wealth of future opportunities in the field of science and clinical research.
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As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Please note: The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Science & Clinical?

Kelly Science & Clinical is your connection to premier scientific and clinical companies looking to hire industry experts just like you. Our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. Every day, we match science professionals with dream jobs that fit their skills, interests, and career goals-it’s the way we think job searching should be. Nearly 100 percent of our science recruiters have a professional background and education in science, so we know a thing or two about the science market and how to get your expertise noticed.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.