ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Spine Institute)

Senior Research Assistant

Reston, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Position Overview The Senior Research Assistant supports the research team and projects by coordinating study activities, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining documentation, and assisting with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSenior Research Assistant Jobs

Senior Research Assistant information

See salary details

$29K

$81.3K

$165.5K

How much do senior research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior research assistant in the United States is $81,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $107,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Senior Research Assistant typically collaborate with principal investigators and junior team members?

Senior Research Assistants play a pivotal role in bridging communication between principal investigators and junior staff. They often help translate research objectives into actionable tasks, provide training or mentorship to newer team members, and ensure data collection and analysis meet project standards. Regular meetings and progress updates are common, and Senior Research Assistants are frequently responsible for troubleshooting issues and maintaining workflow efficiency across the team.

What are Senior Research Assistants?

Senior Research Assistants are experienced professionals who support research projects by managing data collection, analyzing results, and assisting with the preparation of reports and publications. They often oversee junior staff, coordinate project logistics, and ensure compliance with research protocols. Their advanced experience allows them to contribute to study design and problem-solving within the research team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Research Assistant, you need a strong background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree in your field of study. Familiarity with statistical software (like SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and sometimes certifications in research ethics or laboratory safety are typically expected. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with research teams and manage multiple tasks efficiently. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality data collection, accurate analysis, and the smooth execution of complex research projects.

Do you need a PhD to be a research assistant?

A senior research assistant typically does not need a PhD; most positions require a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. However, some research roles may prefer or require advanced degrees or specialized skills, especially for more independent or senior positions. The specific educational requirements vary depending on the organization and research area.

What is the difference between Senior Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectSenior Research AssistantResearch Associate
QualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree, research experienceMaster's or PhD, advanced research skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research projects, academic or industry settingsIndependent research, project management, collaboration
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesUniversities, research organizations, government agencies

Research Associates typically hold higher qualifications like a Master's or PhD and are involved in more independent research tasks. Senior Research Assistants often support research projects under supervision. The roles differ mainly in experience level, independence, and scope of responsibilities, but both work in similar environments and industries.

How much do PhD research assistants make in the US?

PhD research assistants in the US typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on the institution, location, and funding source. Graduate research assistantships often include stipends and tuition waivers, with salaries varying based on experience and field of study.

What does a senior research assistant do?

A senior research assistant supports research projects by collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and assisting with experimental procedures. They often oversee junior staff, manage research documentation, and use tools like statistical software to ensure accurate results.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a position as a research assistant can be competitive and often requires relevant education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, along with strong organizational and research skills. Candidates with experience in data analysis, laboratory work, or specific technical tools may have an advantage, but opportunities vary depending on the field and institution.
More about Senior Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Senior Research Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Research jobs? The most popular types of Senior Research jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Senior Research Assistant jobs? The top employers for Senior Research Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Research Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Research Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Research Assistant jobs are:
Senior Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,251 per year, or $39.1 per hour.
Sr. Research Assistant (Research Administration)

Sr. Research Assistant (Research Administration)

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$41K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop data collection tools and standard operating procedures for the research study.

  • Oversee data collection, analyze data, and provide training for new staff on the study.

  • Conduct study recruitment and enrollment, manage participant coordination, and co-lead educational sessions with participants.

Johns Hopkins Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 202 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

The ENSPIRE project focuses on economic empowerment and sexual and reproductive health, such as HIV infection, among young adults in Baltimore City. The project includes educational sessions, mentoring, text messages, and financial assistance.
We are seeking a Sr. Research Assistant who will work under the general direction of a faculty researcher or senior research staff and independently conducts a variety of operational and technical activities key to the conduct of and direction of the research.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop data collection tools based on understanding of underlying study design.
  • Participate in developing standard operating procedures for one or more studies.
  • Design and set up standard operating procedures.
  • Oversee data collection.
  • Analyze data under general oversight and make data-driven recommendations.
  • Oversee day-to-day activities and provide training for new staff on study.
  • Conduct literature searches to pull background material and identify information relevant and applicable to research interest.
  • Other duties as assigned.

In addition to the duties described above
  • Carry-out study recruitment and enrollment activities of study participants.
  • Manage administrative processes relating to participant coordination, such as payments, scheduling, and registration.
  • Conduct confidential quantitative survey data collection and qualitative individual interviews with participants, including assistance in recording, transcribing, coding, and analysis.
  • Co-lead educational sessions with study participants relating to economic empowerment and sexual health, including enhancing session materials and activities.
  • Assist in identification, coordination, and support of project community partners, mentors, and related facilitators.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field.
  • Two years of related experience.
  • Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond a high school diploma/graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in a related field.

Technical Skills & Expected Level of Proficiency
  • Analytical Skills - Developing
  • Attention to Detail - Developing
  • Electronic Office Tools - Developing
  • Information Gathering - Developing
  • Oral and Written Communications - Developing
  • Organizational Skills - Developing

The core technical skills listed are most essential; additional technical skills may be required based on specific division or department needs.
Classified Title: Sr. Research Assistant
Job Posting Title (Working Title): Sr. Research Assistant (Research Administration)
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB
Starting Salary Range: $41,300 - $72,300 Annually ($65,000 targeted; Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:30 - 5:00
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: School of Nursing
Department name: Research Administration
Personnel area: School of Nursing

What Johns Hopkins Medicine employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply