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Research Associate Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Delve

Research Associate - Summer 2026

Washington, DC · On-site

Our three-month, full-time, stipended Associate Training Program is the launchpad for recent graduates and early-career professionals who want to build a career in public affairs research and ...

Delve

Research Associate - Summer 2026

Washington, DC · On-site

Our three-month, full-time, stipended Associate Training Program is the launchpad for recent graduates and early-career professionals who want to build a career in public affairs research and ...

Novotech

Clinical Research Associate

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$70K - $115K/yr

Clinical Research Associate The Clinical Research Associate (CRA) is primarily responsible for ensuring the rights and wellbeing of trial participants are protected and the reported trial data are ...

DataAnnotation

Equity Research Associate

Washington, DC · Remote

$50 - $60/hr

We are looking for an Equity Research Associate to join our team to help train the next generation of AI while enjoying the flexibility of remote work and the freedom to set your own schedule. This ...

TRI

In-House Clinical Research Associate

Bethesda, MD · Hybrid

Job Title In-House Clinical Research Associate Location Bethesda, MD 20817 US (Primary) Category Clinical Operations Job Type Full-Time Salary Range 50,000-80,000 Education Bachelor's Degree Travel ...

Umcp

Postdoctoral Associate

College Park, MD · On-site

Postdoctoral Research Associate The postdoctoral research associate is responsible for developing novel computational methodology for high-throughput sequence genomics tasks, as well as for building ...

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Research Associate information

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$17

$33

$48

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Springfield, VA is $33.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.36 and $38.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

More about Research Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Springfield, VA? The most popular types of Research jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Springfield, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Research Associate job openings:
Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Springfield, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,699 per year, or $34 per hour.
Research Associate, U.S. Foreign Policy

Research Associate, U.S. Foreign Policy

Council on Foreign Relations

Washington, DC • On-site

$55K - $58K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
CFR's David Rockefeller Studies Program is one of the country's largest foreign policy think tanks with a widely respected and influential research staff. The Studies Program aims to advance the discussion of American foreign policy and international affairs through its writing, publications, public outreach, and discussions.
As part of the Studies Program, the research associate will support the work of the Senior Fellow for U.S. Foreign Policy, and will also spend a small portion of their time working with an adjunct, part-time, or visiting fellow. The research associate works directly with the fellows, providing administrative and research support. The research associate role is dynamic and ever evolving, giving the RA the opportunity to support different fellows and programs.
This full-time position is based in CFR's Washington, DC office at least three days per week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are considered institutional anchor days where all staff are required to be onsite. Effective Monday, September 14, 2026, CFR employees will be based on-site at least four days per week. CFR's remote working schedule is subject to change.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
  • Assist with editing, formatting, and preparation of reports and other publications
  • Provide administrative support to the fellow, including managing complex travel itineraries, coordinating with external organizations, handling correspondence, scheduling, and responding to requests for information
  • Conduct research on topics including, but not limited to, U.S. foreign policy and grand strategy, technology and geopolitics, strategic competition with China and Russia, and transatlantic relations
  • Coordinate events and meetings, including preparing invitations, making travel arrangements, corresponding with speakers and presiders, helping to prepare background papers and materials for distribution, and providing other logistical support
  • Assist in managing finances, including preparing budgets and tracking monthly statements, creating and updating Excel spreadsheets, and preparing vouchers for reimbursement
  • Assist the fellow with social media outreach, including publishing a blog, website, video, and/or using social media applications such as X, as needed
  • Provide support across departmental lines and for other fellows, upon request
  • Perform any other duties as assigned or required.

Minimum Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • BA in international relations, political science, or other similar field. Master's degree preferred but not required
  • One or more year(s) related professional and/or internship experience

Related Skills and Other Requirements
  • Detailed knowledge of current issues in American foreign policy and global politics
  • Exceptional organizational skills and outstanding attention to detail
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects and tasks independently and under deadlines
  • Strong research skills and ability to perform well on highly varied assignments
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Required Application Materials
  • Please submit a résumé and cover letter explaining your interest in the position

Compensation and Benefits
  • The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $55,000-$58,000 depending on experience
  • In addition to competitive salaries, CFR provides employees with an outstanding benefits package

About CFR
The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is committed to fostering a foreign policy community in the United States that is more representative of American society, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and perspectives contribute to broader, more informed participation in the foreign policy debate and lead to an enhanced understanding of the world and the United States' role therein. To that end, CFR is dedicated to continuing to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout its work and workplace by building a more diverse membership and staff, producing and dispensing thoughtful analysis on a broad range of foreign policy issues, and developing relevant, wide-reaching programming that also serves to expand the foreign policy talent pipeline to underrepresented populations.

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