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How much do research associates jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associates in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do research associates 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 skills or in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and opportunities for advancement.

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 generally need a strong background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in a related field. Experience with statistical software (like SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and sometimes certifications in research ethics or compliance are often required. Excellent attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills set standout candidates apart. These skills are crucial for producing reliable results, collaborating effectively within research teams, and contributing to successful project outcomes.

How do Research Associates typically collaborate with principal investigators and other team members during a project?

Research Associates often work closely with principal investigators (PIs), providing critical support throughout the research process. They may assist in designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results. Collaboration also involves regular meetings to discuss progress, troubleshoot challenges, and align on project goals. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Research Associates frequently coordinate with other lab members, technicians, and sometimes external partners to ensure project milestones are met.

What is the difference between Research Associates vs Research Assistants?

AspectResearch AssociatesResearch Assistants
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, often with specialized experienceTypically pursuing or holding a Bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentIndependent research, data analysis, project managementSupporting research tasks, data collection, lab work
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, labs, research projects

Research Associates usually have more experience and handle independent research tasks, while Research Assistants support research activities under supervision. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Research Associates often require higher qualifications and take on more responsibility.

What qualifications do I 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 also require strong analytical skills, proficiency with research tools and software, and sometimes a master's degree or higher for advanced roles.

What do you do as a research associate?

A research associate conducts experiments, collects and analyzes data, and prepares reports to support research projects. They often work in laboratories or academic settings, utilizing tools like statistical software and following specific protocols to ensure accurate results.

Is a research associate a good career?

A research associate is a valuable role in academia, industry, and government, involving data collection, analysis, and reporting. It often requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with research tools or software. The career can lead to advancement into senior research positions or specialized fields, depending on experience and education.

What are Research Associates?

Research Associates are professionals who assist in the planning, execution, and analysis of research projects in various fields such as academia, healthcare, or business. They typically work under the supervision of lead researchers or principal investigators, contributing to data collection, literature review, and the preparation of reports or publications. Research Associates often have at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field and possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Their work is essential for advancing knowledge and supporting evidence-based decision-making within their organizations.
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What cities are hiring for Research Associates jobs? Cities with the most Research Associates job openings:
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Research Associates jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associates job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Clinical Research Associates (CRA)

Clinical Research Associates (CRA)

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

383rd of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Announcement
Details
Open Date
07/14/2026
Requisition Number
PRN45648B
Job Title
Clinical Research Associates (CRA)
Working Title
Research Associate
Career Progression Track
P00
Track Level
P3 - Career
FLSA Code
Administrative
Patient Sensitive Job Code?
No
Standard Hours per Week
40
Full Time or Part Time?
Full Time
Shift
Day
Work Schedule Summary
Monday - Friday
VP Area
U of U Health - Academics
Department
00269 - Orthopedic Surgery Operations
Location
Campus
City
Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment
External Posting
Pay Rate Range
$65,000
Close Date
10/14/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary
The Research Associate supports the laboratory's research mission through leadership of research studies, development of competitive grant proposals, scholarly dissemination of findings, and mentorship of students and research personnel. This position provides expertise in biomechanics, motion analysis, computational modeling, and statistical methods while contributing to the laboratory's scientific productivity and long-term research objectives.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
Responsibilities
Research Leadership
  • Lead study design, data collection, and statistical analysis activities for ongoing research projects.
  • Serve as a primary scientific contributor to the development and submission of a NIH R01, including generation and analysis of preliminary and pilot data.
  • Assist in the preparation, writing, and submission of peer-reviewed manuscripts.
  • Spearhead dissemination of research findings through scientific publications, presentations, and reports.
  • Collaborate with investigators and research partners to develop innovative research questions and methodologies.

Research Compliance
  • Maintain compliance with Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements through study documentation, protocol management, continuing reviews, amendments, and report preparation.
  • Ensure accurate and complete documentation of research procedures and study records.
  • Support adherence to institutional, sponsor, and regulatory requirements for human subjects research.
  • Technical Responsibilities
  • Validate and verify research algorithms, analytical methods, and software tools.
  • Develop and maintain shared laboratory code, software workflows, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Develop biomechanical and computational models of human joints and musculoskeletal systems.
  • Collect, process, and analyze motion capture and related biomechanical datasets.
  • Implement and improve data processing pipelines and analytical workflows to support laboratory research objectives.

Mentorship and Training
  • Train and mentor students, staff, and trainees in image processing, biomechanical analysis, motion capture methods, and MATLAB-based workflows.
  • Provide technical guidance and support on laboratory software, coding practices, and data analysis techniques.
  • Promote best practices in data management, reproducible research, and scientific computing.
  • Assist in the professional development of undergraduate, graduate, and research personnel.

Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Clinical Research Associate (CRA), III: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.
Preferences
Type
Benefited Staff
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1850

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