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How much do student research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for student research associate in Portland, ME is $33.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $37.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student research associate?

Student Research Associates are students, typically at the undergraduate or graduate level, who assist faculty or professional researchers with academic or scientific research projects. Their responsibilities may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and helping with experiments or fieldwork. This role provides hands-on experience in research methodologies and often helps students develop skills essential for future academic or professional careers.

What are some typical challenges student research associates face when balancing academic responsibilities with research commitments?

Student Research Associates often juggle coursework deadlines, exams, and research tasks simultaneously, which can be challenging to manage. Effective time management and clear communication with both academic advisors and research supervisors are essential to prevent conflicts and ensure productivity. Many students find it helpful to set regular check-ins with their research team and plan their schedules in advance to accommodate both requirements. Additionally, learning to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance can significantly reduce stress and enhance performance in both areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Research Associate, you need a solid understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, usually gained through relevant coursework or a degree program. Familiarity with tools like statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, or citation management systems is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and time management are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and handling multiple tasks. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate data collection, efficient project progression, and meaningful contributions to research outcomes.

What is the difference between Student Research Associate vs Research Intern?

AspectStudent Research AssociateResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, relevant courseworkTypically students or early career professionals
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university settingsResearch institutions, labs, or corporate R&D
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Student Research Associate and a Research Intern lies in their typical work environment and credentials. Student Research Associates are usually enrolled students working within academic settings, focusing on coursework and research projects. Research Interns may be students or early professionals working in research labs or industry R&D. Both roles involve research tasks, but the context and employer types differ.

Is a student research associate a good career?

A student research associate role provides valuable experience in research methods, data analysis, and scientific communication, which can benefit future academic or industry careers. However, it is typically a temporary position focused on gaining skills rather than long-term employment, so its value depends on individual career goals and how the experience is leveraged.

What do you do as a student research associate?

A student research associate assists with research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and supporting the research team. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher and may use tools like laboratory equipment or data analysis software. This role helps students gain practical experience in their field of study and develop research skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Student Research jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Student Research jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Student Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Student Research Associate job openings:

Student Research Associate jobs near you

Epidemiologist - Research Associate II

Maine's Public Universities

Portland, ME • Hybrid

$73K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine (USM) is pleased to announce an opening for a full-time Epidemiologist - Research Associate II position.

The Epidemiologist - Research Associate II (RAII) carries out a full range of complex epidemiologic and surveillance activities, with a focus on Environmental and Occupational Health. This position is part of a team of USM epidemiologists and health communication specialists dedicated to building epidemiology and communication capacity at USM and the Maine CDC (the state's public health agency).  

The Epidemiologist - RAII provides epidemiology and subject matter expertise to state, federal, and local partners.  The Epidemiologist - RAII, in partnership with Maine CDC staff and other USM staff, is responsible for developing, implementing and sustaining public health surveillance  systems  within the Maine CDC's Environmental Health Program (EHP); this includes assessing the burden and trends of environmental health-related outcomes, exposures, and risk factors in the general population and among sub-populations; and coordinating grant deliverables and reports and overseeing technical staff in the execution of grant activities.  In addition, the RAII will lead and collaborate on epidemiologic studies with various Maine CDC programs and with partners in other state and federal agencies.

The Muskie School of Public Service is Maine's distinguished public policy school, combining an extensive applied research and technical assistance portfolio with rigorous undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs in geography-anthropology; tourism and hospitality; policy, planning, and management (MPPM); and public health (MPH). The school is nationally recognized for applying innovative knowledge to critical issues in the fields of sustainable development and health and human service policy and management and is home to the Cutler Institute for Health and Social Policy. The Muskie School and Cutler Institute engage in cross-disciplinary opportunities through the University of Maine Graduate & Professional Center, which brings together programs in business, law, policy, and public health.

This is a full-time position with a hybrid balance of 2 days per week in the Maine CDC-Augusta office and 3 days teleworking with a starting annual salary of $73,000 - $79,000.  

The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):

  • 13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time.
  • Health, dental and vision insurance.
  • Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
  • Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
  • A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren).
  • A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution.
  • Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses.

To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.  

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.  USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University. 

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Epidemiology, Public Health or related field, preferably from an accredited school of public health, and a minimum of 6 years of epidemiologic-related work experience.
  • Demonstrated mastery of principles of epidemiology and public health.
  • Experience developing and implementing public health surveillance systems.
  • Experience building partnerships and successfully collaborating with internal and external partners.  
  • Ability to identify the need for applied epidemiologic studies.
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, including experience with major computer-based statistical packages, preferably SAS and/or R.

How To Apply:

Click on the 'Apply Now' button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references.

All application materials must be received by August 18, 2026.

We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.

Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator.

Clery Act:

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. View the University's Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.

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