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Senior Research Associate Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

We welcome earlier career scholars to apply instead to a related Senior Research Associate role, for which we are also hiring. The Annenberg Institute is Brown University's education research ...

We welcome earlier career scholars to apply instead to a related Senior Research Associate role, for which we are also hiring. The Annenberg Institute is Brown University's education research ...

TSX) company, is seeking an experienced, hands-on Senior Corporate Development Associate to build ... Research markets, assess strategic fit and investment potential, and prioritize the opportunities ...

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Senior Research Associate information

See Rhode Island salary details

$22

$44

$63

How much do senior research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior research associate in Rhode Island is $44.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.21 and $49.42 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Research jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Senior Research jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Research Associate jobs in Rhode Island?

For Senior Research Associate jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Research Associate jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Research Associate jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Senior Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Senior Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Research Associate job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,750 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Senior Research Associate

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Brown University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

168th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description:
About Brown:
Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.
Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.
About the Annenberg Institute:
The Annenberg Institute is Brown University's education research institute. Our vibrant community includes Brown University faculty, postdoctoral research associates, staff, students, and multiple partners in Rhode Island and across the US. We partner with education leaders and global scholars to connect people, evidence, and practices to build toward a more effective and equitable education system that enables all students to thrive academically and in other ways. Our knowledge initiatives catalyze conversations across the research landscape, synthesizing what we know and mobilizing practitioners, policymakers, and researchers toward collaborative impact.
About the Opportunity:
The Senior Research Associate takes the lead in developing and leading key research analysis projects for the Principal Investigator's (PI), Dr. Matt Kraft, research to advance a range of ongoing research projects related to the teacher labor market and teacher compensation reforms. The position will play a supporting role in conducting background research on a wide range of topics, as well as analyzing a variety of labor market datasets.
Responsibilities:
Reporting directly to the PI, the Senior Research Associate drives all aspects of project planning for multiple research projects for this research team in a dynamic, layered team setting. The position applies extensive scientific and management methodologies specific to the research team with empirical vigor, advancing research efforts and minimizing research development risks with regard to quality, timelines, and funding. The position will take a lead role in designing experiments, leading data collection and analysis efforts, developing project models, and writing academic papers, reports, presentations, and grant reports. This position requires a strong independent work ethic, interest in education, ability to collaborate with the research team and external partners, and quantitative research skills.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience
• Master's degree in education, economics, public policy, statistics, data science, or related social science fields (PhD or EdD preferred) with 5-7 years of research experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in K-12 teaching and/or working with federal datasets including those maintained by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Experience working on large-scale research studies.
• Experience using Stata and/or R to analyze data.
• A strong quantitative background.
• Strong background in education research.
Competencies:
• Strong analytical and writing skills.
• Training and expertise in utilizing quantitative research methods, including experience working with complex data sets.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong ability to explain methods to research staff and provide guidance on models and interpretation of output.
Additional Information:
This is a fixed term position with the possibility of renewal annually. This position is contingent on funding.
Please include a resume as one attached .pdf document and cover letter, transcript, and letters of recommendation or names of references (3) as another single .pdf document (for a total of two attachments).
Background and education check required.
Please reach out to samuel_madison@brown.edu with any questions.
Benefits of Working at Brown:
Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.
Recruiting Start Date:
2026-05-21
Job Posting Title:
Senior Research Associate
Department:
Annenberg Institute for School Reform
Grade:
Grade 10
Worker Type:
Employee
Worker Sub-Type:
Fixed Term (Fixed Term)
Time Type:
Full time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
37.5
Position Work Location:
Remote
Submission Guidelines:
Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any staff position at Brown University you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. All remote work must be performed in a state in which Brown is registered to do business.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.
Brown is an E-Verify Employer.
EEO Statement:
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

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