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Senior Research Associate Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

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Project Director, Senior Management); * Submit the weekly project report to management (e.g. Project Director, Senior Management); * Study site selection, initiation (SIV) and clinical monitoring;

Senior Tax Associate

Denver, CO · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Senior Tax Associate - Denver, CO Who: We are seeking a detail-oriented tax professional with at ... You will prepare and review tax returns, conduct technical tax research, support consulting ...

Senior Tax Associate

Denver, CO · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Senior Tax Associate - Denver, CO Who: We are seeking a detail-oriented tax professional with at ... You will prepare and review tax returns, conduct technical tax research, support consulting ...

Senior Tax Associate

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

Senior Tax Associate Location: Lakewood, CO (Hybrid) About the Opportunity Are you looking for a ... Research, document, and resolve complex tax issues. * Manage multiple priorities while adapting to ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Research Associate information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$23

$47

$68

How much do senior research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior research associate in Highlands Ranch, CO is $47.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.86 and $52.98 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 cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Senior Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Senior Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Research Associate job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,336 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Research Services Clinical Sciences Professional OPEN RANK (Intermediate - Senior)

University of Colorado

Aurora, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Department: SOM - Orthopedics
Job Title: Research Services Clinical Sciences Professional OPEN RANK (Intermediate - Senior)
Position #: 00837810 - Requisition #:40318
Job Summary:
This position will act as a clinical research coordinator for the Emily Lindley Research Lab, assisting with studies related to non-opioid alternatives for treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain. This position is posted as "open rank," meaning the selected candidate may be hired at either the intermediate or senior level, depending on the relevant experience of the selected candidate, as well as the business needs and budgetary considerations of the hiring department.
Intermediate Clinical Science Professionals perform clinical research related functions which may include patient-oriented research or research conducted with human subjects. Patient-oriented research includes mechanisms of human disease, therapeutic interventions, clinical trials, or development of new technologies.
Senior Clinical Science Professionals perform clinical research related functions which may include patient-oriented research or research conducted with human subjects. Patient-oriented research includes mechanisms of human disease, therapeutic interventions, clinical trials, or development of new technologies. Senior Clinical Science Professionals may also assist with epidemiologic and behavioral studies and/or outcomes research and health services research. Some Assignments will not move beyond this level.
Key Responsibilities:
All Levels:
  • Assist with and oversee the day-to-day operations of clinical trials and studies
  • Obtain study subject's medical history and current medication information, reviews research protocol inclusion/exclusion criteria, and confirms eligibility of subject to participate in clinical trial
  • Perform informed consent process or ensures that the informed consent process has occurred, is properly documented, and that informed consent form documents are filed as required
  • Interview prospective subjects for a variety of research clinical trials. Educate potential subjects on the details of the studies through phone contacts and personal interviews
  • Schedule subject participation in research clinical trial, coordinating availability of necessary space, and clinical research support (e.g., physician, nurse practitioner, laboratory, radiology, pharmacy)
  • Collect, code, and analyze data obtained from research in an accurate and timely manner

Senior Level Only:
  • All duties stated above, PLUS:
    • Assist with developing or develops protocol-specific systems and documents including process flows, training manuals, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Case Report Forms (CRFs). Maintains subject level documentation and prepares documents, equipment and/or supplies
    • Assist with identifying issues related to operational efficiency and shares results with leadership
    • Collect information to determine feasibility, recruitment and retention strategies. Employ, evaluate and assist with the implementation of innovative solutions to maximize recruitment and retention
    • Serve as a resource and participate in study initiation and close out duties

Additional Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Drive cargo van (e.g. Sprinter Van) that is converted into a Mobile Pharmacology Lab to research subjects' homes. A second study team member will always accompany the driver.
  • Draw blood samples from research subjects

Work Location:
Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.
Why Join Us:
The University of Colorado, Department of Orthopedics is a recognized global leader in the field and Colorado's most trusted orthopedic group for adults and children. Our unique position at the forefront of medical science, education, and practice innovation translates in real-time to the most advanced patient care, unmatched in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region. From routine cases to the most complex, we treat every orthopedic condition including injuries and diseases of the bones, joints, nerves, tendons, ligaments, and muscles across many orthopedic specialties.
Why work for the University?
We have AMAZING benefits and offerexceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:
  • Medical: Multiple plan options
  • Dental: Multiple plan options
  • Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
  • Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
  • Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
  • Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
  • Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
  • Holiday Days: 10/year
  • Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
  • ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications
Intermediate Level:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field.
    • A combination of education and related technical/military/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree on a year for year basis.
  • One (1) year clinical research or related experience.

Senior Level:
  • Bachelor's degree in any field.
    • A combination of education and related technical/military/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree on a year for year basis.
  • Two (2) years clinical research or related experience.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in science or health related field.
  • Three (3) years of clinical research or related experience.
  • Experience with electronic data capture systems (e.g. EMR or EHR and data management systems).

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge and understanding of federal regulations and Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
  • Outstanding customer service skills.
  • Knowledge of basic human anatomy, physiology medical terminology.
  • Ability to interpret and master complex research protocol information.

How to Apply:
For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):
  1. Curriculum vitae / Resume
  2. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to: Emily Lindley, EMILY.LINDLEY@CUANSCHUTZ.EDU.
Screening of Applications Begins:
Screening begins immediately and continues until 7/9/26
Anticipated Pay Range:
The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as:
  • Intermediate Level: $54,302 - $72,765
  • Senior Level: $58,705 - $78,665

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Total Compensation Calculator
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
ADA Statement:
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.
Background Check Statement:
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.
Vaccination Statement:
CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.

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