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Summer Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summer Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position requires a high degree of independence with general direction and supervision received from the Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY: The candidate might ...

... part-time Research Associate to support ongoing projects in environmental health and safety ... This is a one-year position that includes Fall, Spring, and Summer. Job duties include and are not ...

Research Associate IV, Attribute Sciences

Plano, TX · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Research Associate IV, Attribute Sciences Department: 55 - ECO Process Development Employment Type ... Generous Paid Time Off including 18 Company Holidays (with a summer and winter shutdown), Vacation ...

XLab Project Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

XLab additionally supports outreach and education for undergraduates through its summer research ... Job Summary The XLab Project Associate supports the day-to-day operations of XLab, including ...

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Summer Research Associate information

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How much do summer research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects does a summer research associate typically work on, and how are assignments determined?

Summer Research Associates usually contribute to ongoing research projects within their assigned departments, often working under the guidance of a principal investigator or senior researcher. Assignments are typically based on the associate’s academic background, interests, and the current needs of the research team. Projects may range from data collection and analysis to literature reviews and laboratory experiments. Associates are encouraged to actively participate in team meetings, share ideas, and may have opportunities to present their findings. This collaborative structure not only provides hands-on experience but also helps associates build professional relationships and explore potential career paths in research.

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

To thrive as a Summer Research Associate, you need a solid academic background in your field of study, strong analytical skills, and experience with research methodologies. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is often required. Strong written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively distinguish top candidates. These skills ensure that research projects are executed accurately, findings are communicated effectively, and contributions are meaningful to the team’s objectives.

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

AspectSummer Research AssociateSummer Intern
CredentialsUndergraduate or graduate students, often with relevant coursework or research experienceTypically undergraduate students, sometimes with limited experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or industry R&D departmentsVaries; may include administrative, technical, or research tasks in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech, pharma, and tech companiesCorporations, nonprofits, government agencies, and academic institutions

The main difference is that Summer Research Associates are usually more focused on conducting research and may have more specialized roles, while Summer Interns often perform a broader range of tasks and may have less research-specific responsibilities. Both roles provide valuable experience, but the Research Associate position typically emphasizes research skills and project contributions.

What is a summer research associate?

Summer Research Associates are typically students or recent graduates who participate in temporary research positions during the summer months. They work under the supervision of faculty, researchers, or professionals to assist with ongoing research projects, often gaining hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and report writing. These roles provide valuable exposure to research methodologies and can help participants build skills relevant to their academic or career interests. Summer Research Associateships may be found in universities, government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations.

What cities are hiring for Summer Research Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Summer Research Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Summer Research jobs?

The most popular types of Summer Research jobs are:

What states have the most Summer Research Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Summer Research Associate jobs include:

Part-Time Research Associate

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences is seeking Part-Time Research Associates for Summer 2025.
Job duties include and are not limited to:
  • Check with research advisor at the beginning of each week about specific activities.
  • Set up and maintain research facilities.
  • Contribute to research projects.
  • Any other responsibilities outlined and agreed upon with your research advisor.

Application review will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
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Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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