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Research Development Associate Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

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Research Development Associate information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$28.2K

$51.9K

$78.6K

How much do research development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development associate in Pittsburgh, PA is $51,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $58,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a research development associate typically collaborate with faculty and research teams to support grant proposals?

As a Research Development Associate, you'll work closely with faculty, principal investigators, and research teams to identify funding opportunities, develop competitive grant proposals, and ensure compliance with institutional and sponsor guidelines. This often involves facilitating brainstorming sessions, coordinating interdisciplinary collaborations, and providing feedback on proposal drafts. You'll also serve as a liaison between researchers and administrative offices, helping to streamline the submission process and enhance the overall quality of proposals.

What is the difference between Research Development Associate vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Development AssociateResearch Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field, research experienceBachelor's or Master's, often with project management skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry R&DResearch sites, labs, academic or healthcare settings
Employer & IndustryUniversities, biotech, pharma, research institutesHospitals, universities, research organizations
Primary FocusSupporting research development, grant writing, proposal preparationManaging research projects, data collection, compliance

The Research Development Associate primarily focuses on supporting research initiatives through grant writing and proposal development, while the Research Coordinator manages the day-to-day operations of research projects, including data collection and compliance. Both roles require research experience and are common in academic and industry research settings, but they differ in their core responsibilities and focus areas.

What is a research development associate?

Research Development Associates are professionals who support the development, coordination, and management of research projects, typically within universities, research institutes, or large organizations. Their responsibilities often include identifying funding opportunities, assisting with grant proposal preparation, fostering research collaborations, and ensuring compliance with funding agency guidelines. They serve as a bridge between researchers and administrative offices, helping to maximize research productivity and funding success. Research Development Associates play a key role in advancing institutional research goals and facilitating interdisciplinary initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research development associate?

To thrive as a Research Development Associate, you need expertise in grant writing, project management, and research methodologies, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with funding databases, proposal submission systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills help build relationships with researchers and manage complex projects. These skills ensure effective acquisition of research funding and successful coordination of research initiatives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Research Development Associate jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Research Development Associate job openings:

Development Associate - Heinz College

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy consists of two schools - the School of Public Policy and Management and the School of Information Systems and Management - and offers an academic experience unlike any other. Heinz College prepares students with a unique ability to conduct careful and objective analysis of relevant data, to understand and demonstrate the power of information technology, and to lead and implement change in managerial and policy contexts.
Heinz College is searching for a highly organized, resourceful, and detail-oriented professional to serve as a Development Associate. Reporting to the Associate Director of Partnerships & Advancement, the Development Associate will play a key role in supporting Heinz College's fundraising, donor and corporate engagement, and advancement initiatives.
Core responsibilities include:
  • Coordinating administrative, project management, and operational activities to support fundraising initiatives, donor stewardship, meetings, events, and other advancement-related programs.
  • Supporting fundraising and advancement activities by maintaining accurate constituent records, managing data, preparing reports, and ensuring the integrity of information within advancement systems and databases.
  • Conducting research, gathering and analyzing information, and preparing reports, briefings, presentations, and other materials to support donor engagement, fundraising strategies, and leadership decision-making.
  • Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate communication, manage workflows, monitor project progress, and ensure timely completion of assignments and deliverables.
  • Providing customer service and relationship management support to donors, alumni, faculty, staff, and external partners.
  • Preparing, reviewing, and maintaining correspondence, proposals, agreements, and other documentation while ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with university policies and procedures.
  • Supporting special projects and process improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and improve stakeholder engagement.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.
You should demonstrate:
  • The ability to identify and ask the right questions early in a project, establish a clear understanding of objectives, and then work independently to execute and deliver results.
  • The ability to organize and manage information accurately
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • The ability to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders.
  • Strong attention to detail

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree required
  • 1-3 years of relevant experience

A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.
Requirements:
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment background check

Additional Information:
  • Sponsorship: Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work for CMU in the United States. CMU will not sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity. Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Job Function
Development
Position Type
Staff - Regular
Full Time/Part time
Full time
Pay Basis
Hourly
More Information:
  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
  • Statement of Assurance

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