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Senior Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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$44

$64

How much do senior research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior research associate in California is $44.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.50 and $49.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior research associate?

A senior research associate is a clinical or social scientist who runs experiments or studies at a medical center, think tank, university, or for a pharmaceutical company. As a senior research associate, your job duties include performing clinical research, complex testing of samples, data collection, and analysis of results. In this job, you direct researchers in your lab and collaborate with other scientific professionals to design experiments or compare results. Qualifications and skills needed for this career include a bachelor’s degree in a field related to your work and several years of experience as a research associate. A master’s degree or Ph.D. with significant research or laboratory components can substitute for some job experience.

What is a senior research associate?

A Senior Research Associate is an experienced professional who leads and conducts advanced research projects within academic, scientific, or corporate environments. They are responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, supervising junior staff, and contributing to publications and grant proposals. Senior Research Associates often act as key members of research teams, providing expertise and ensuring projects are completed efficiently and accurately. Their role requires a strong background in their field, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

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

To thrive as a Senior Research Associate, you need advanced research skills, data analysis expertise, and a relevant degree (often a master's or PhD) in a scientific or technical field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as SPSS or R), and compliance with regulatory standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate research outcomes, fostering innovation, and supporting collaboration within research teams.

What are some common challenges faced by senior research associates in managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Senior Research Associates often juggle several projects at once, which can make prioritization and time management challenging. Balancing hands-on experimental work, data analysis, and documentation while meeting project deadlines requires strong organizational skills and clear communication with team members. Proactively coordinating with principal investigators and cross-functional teams helps ensure that expectations are aligned, resources are available, and progress stays on track. Utilizing project management tools and regular team meetings can also aid in overcoming these challenges.

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

AspectSenior Research AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, relevant experienceMaster's or Ph.D., specialized research training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research teams, industry or academiaAdvanced research settings, independent projects
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, biotech, academia, governmentResearch institutions, biotech firms, academia
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for career progression, responsibilitiesMore specialized, higher-level research roles

The main difference between a Senior Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in their experience, level of independence, and research responsibilities. Senior Research Associates typically support research projects with substantial experience, while Research Scientists often lead projects and require advanced degrees like a Ph.D. for more independent research roles. Both roles are vital in research environments, but Research Scientists usually hold a higher level of expertise and responsibility.

Do I need a PhD to be a senior research associate?

A senior research associate typically does not require a PhD, but many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or equivalent experience in the relevant field. Relevant skills, research experience, and technical proficiency often play a more significant role than the highest degree held.

How much does a senior research associate make in the US?

A senior research associate in the US typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. Salaries can vary based on the organization and whether the role requires specialized skills or advanced degrees.
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Senior Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,461 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Sr. Research Associate, Surface Chemistry

Atlas Data Storage, Inc.

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

About AtlasBase
AtlasBase is a fast-growing pioneer in Molecular Computing, bridging the gap between traditional IT and biotechnology. We are redefining global IT infrastructure by driving breakthroughs in both Molecular Compute and Molecular Data Storage. By commercializing synthetic DNA-based technologies at IT scale, AtlasBase delivers ultra-high-density, low-maintenance, and carbon-conscious solutions built for the explosive growth and value of the world's data. Leveraging nature's most durable medium, we provide a virtually permanent foundation that transforms how the world processes and secures its most critical information.
Originally spun out of Twist Bioscience, our team is an elite fusion of scientists, engineers, and operators dedicated to solving some of the most complex infrastructure challenges on Earth. While our work is grounded in deep science, our success depends on world-class talent across every discipline. We are seeking a Sr. Research Associate, Surface Chemistry who is ready to bring their expertise to a high-impact environment and help us build a brand-new category of technology.
About the Role
This is a unique opportunity to join a talented team of scientists and engineers focused on solving critical challenges in molecular data storage. As a Senior Research Associate in technology development, you will be primarily responsible for the surface modification and characterization of semiconductor substrates critical to our core technology. You will run day-to-day experiments to ensure the continuous supply of high-quality substrates for the broader team, while also developing and optimizing next-generation surface chemistry protocols. The ideal candidate is a rigorous and detail-oriented experimentalist with deep expertise in surface metrology and a passion for driving innovation in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
Responsibilities
  • Prepare, functionalize, and provide semiconductor substrates to the broader team for daily experimental workflows.
  • Develop and optimize novel surface chemistry and bioconjugation protocols to improve the performance and reliability of our high-density platforms.
  • Execute routine and advanced surface metrology to characterize substrates, including ellipsometry, contact angle measurements, AFM, and other relevant surface analysis techniques.
  • Process and analyze experimental data to guide surface chemistry optimization and troubleshoot technical issues.
  • Maintain detailed and meticulous records of all experimental work and analysis.
  • Effectively communicate experimental results, data analysis, and next steps to team members and leadership.
  • Act as a strong individual contributor while thriving in cross-functional collaborations with our synthesis, engineering, sequencing, and bioinformatics teams.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree with >5 years of relevant industry experience, or Master's degree with 1-3 years of experience in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Deep, hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and executing surface chemistry protocols on solid substrates.
  • Demonstrated expertise in surface metrology techniques, specifically including ellipsometry, contact angle goniometry, electrochemical characterization, and AFM.
  • Experience with bioconjugation and basic organic lab techniques is a plus.
  • Strong data analysis and scripting experience is highly desirable.
  • Experience in a biotech or pharma R&D environment is highly desirable.
  • Must be a creative and detail-oriented person with excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Exceptional collaboration skills and ability to work seamlessly in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Physical Demands & Work Environment
  • Work will be performed onsite in office and laboratory space located in South San Francisco.
  • Mobility: Must be able to move about the laboratory and office environment regularly. This includes standing and walking for extended periods, often up to 6-8 hours per day.
  • Manual Dexterity: Must have fine motor skills and steady hands to handle delicate instruments, operate laboratory equipment, pipette accurately, and perform repetitive benchwork with precision.
  • Lifting/Carrying: Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds occasionally, such as boxes of lab supplies or equipment.
  • Visual Acuity: Must have sufficient visual acuity to read small print on labels, instrument displays, and computer monitors. Close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus are required.
  • Environmental Conditions: Frequently exposed to typical laboratory conditions, including biological samples, chemicals, and reagents. Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, and safety goggles as required.

The pay range for this role is:
95,000 - 125,000 USD per year (HQ)

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