job description for research associate

Research Associate

Job description overview.

A Research Associate job description involves working closely with scientists in the science industry to conduct experiments, research and develop new products or processes. Research Associates also analyze data and prepare reports on their findings. They are responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, ordering supplies and ensuring safety protocols are adhered to. 

Research Associates need a strong background in science, with knowledge of laboratory techniques, instrumentation and experimental design. They should be detail-oriented, able to work independently, and possess excellent communication skills. 

Typically, a degree in a related field is required, although experience may substitute for formal education. Research Associates often have opportunities for advancement and career growth within the science industry. 

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Research Associate, take the time to develop strong laboratory skills and gain research experience. With dedication and hard work, you can build a rewarding and fulfilling career in this exciting field.

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Table of contents, job duties and responsibilities.

• Conduct research experiments and collect data under the guidance of senior scientists
• Analyze and interpret research data using various tools and techniques
• Maintain accurate records of all laboratory activities and research findings
• Assist in the preparation of research reports and scientific publications
• Perform routine laboratory tasks such as reagent preparation and equipment maintenance
• Participate in laboratory meetings and provide updates on research progress
• Follow laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment
• Stay up-to-date with the latest scientific advancements and methodologies 
• Collaborate with other members of the research team and provide support as needed

Experience and Education Requirements

To land a job as a Research Associate in the Science industry, you’ll typically need a combination of education and experience. Most employers require a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Biology, Chemistry or Physics. A Master’s degree can be an added advantage. Experience can be gained through internships or working as a laboratory assistant. A successful candidate should have strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills. Good computer skills and knowledge of laboratory equipment are also important. Attention to detail, persistence, and creativity are highly valued qualities in this field. In short, to be a research associate in science, you need education, experience, and a set of personal qualities that set you apart.

Salary Range

A "Research Associate" is a science industry professional who works under the direction of a Principal Investigator, performing experiments and analyzing research results. In the United States, the expected salary range for a Research Associate is between $40,000 to $90,000 per year, with the average annual salary being around $57,000 (according to Glassdoor). However, the salary can vary depending on the research field, location, education levels, and experience. For example, Research Associates in the Biotech and Pharmaceutical industries tend to earn higher salaries. In Canada, the salary range for a Research Associate is around CAD 45,000 to CAD 89,000 per year (according to Payscale).

• Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/research-associate-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
• Payscale: https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Research_Associate/Salary

Career Outlook

If you're a Research Associate in the science industry, the outlook for your career over the next five years is quite promising. The job outlook for research associates is growing steadily. In fact, the job growth rate is projected to be much faster than the average for all occupations. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of research associates is projected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This positive growth is due to the increasing need for research and development in many fields, including medicine, technology, and environmental conservation. 

Furthermore, with advancements in technology and increased focus on research, research associates will have greater opportunities to explore and discover new breakthroughs. A career as a research associate is not only stable now but also shows great potential for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a Research Associate in the Science industry?

A: A Research Associate is a professional who conducts research in the science industry and assists senior researchers in scientific investigations and experiments.

Q: What are the responsibilities of a Research Associate?

A: A Research Associate is responsible for planning and executing experiments, analyzing data, preparing reports, presenting findings, maintaining laboratory equipment, and keeping up-to-date with scientific developments.

Q: What qualifications do I need to become a Research Associate?

A: A Research Associate typically holds at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field of science, such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Some employers may require a master's or doctoral degree.

Q: What skills are important for a Research Associate?

A: Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, as well as attention to detail, are important for Research Associates. They should also have experience with laboratory techniques and research methodologies.

Q: What career opportunities are available for Research Associates?

A: Research Associates can pursue a career as a research scientist, lab manager, and scientific writer, among other options. With experience and advanced degrees, they may also become principal investigators or research directors.

Job Descriptions:

Quality assurance auditor, process engineer, analytical scientist, medical technologist, quality assurance specialist.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Research Assistant Job...

Research Assistant Job Description: All Key Roles & Duties

6 min read · Updated on June 03, 2024

When you want to land a Research Assistant job, the job description is your best friend.

In order to ensure your professional resume will support your goals, use this Research Assistant job description to inform what you should highlight on your resume.

By reviewing job description roles and duties, you'll be able to identify what technical and soft skills , credentials, and work experience matter most to an employer in your target field.

Research Assistant Job Description

Participate in the design, administration, and monitoring of clinical trials. Analyze and evaluate clinical data gathered during research. Ensure compliance with protocol and overall clinical objectives.

May require a BS, RN, or BSN degree or equivalent and 0-3 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Knowledge of FDA regulatory requirements is required. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Work under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.

Responsibilities:

Conduct literature reviews

Collect and analyze data

Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies and foundations

Prepare interview questions

Recruit and/or interview subjects

Maintain accurate records of interviews, safeguarding the confidentiality of subjects as necessary

Summarize interviews

Provide ready access to all experimental data for the faculty researcher and/or supervisor

Request or acquire equipment or supplies necessary for the project

Manage and respond to project-related email

Prepare, maintain, and update website materials

Supervise undergraduate students working on the research project (maintaining records on assignment completion, acting as liaison/mediator between the undergraduate students and the faculty researcher)

Attend project meetings

Attend area seminars and other meetings as necessary

Summarize project results

Prepare progress reports

Prepare other articles, reports, and presentations

Monitor the project budget

Travel to field sites to collect and record data and/or samples as appropriate to the specific objectives of the study

As appropriate to the specified position, code and verify data in accordance with specified research protocol and coding procedures and enter data into a computer database and/or spreadsheet application for subsequent analysis

Develop or assist in the development of interview schedules; contact potential subjects to introduce and explain study objectives and protocol and to arrange interviews, either in person or by telephone

Identify and compile lists of potential research subjects in accordance with study objectives and parameters, as appropriate to the individual position

Conduct and record face-to-face and/or telephone interviews with subjects, in accordance with predetermined interview protocol, data collection procedures and documentation standards

Review and edit data to ensure completeness and accuracy of information; follow up with subjects to resolve problems or clarify data collected

May set up, calibrate and maintain laboratory and/or field research equipment, as specified by the requirements of the study

May lead or guide the work of student employees

Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned

Prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management

Write and contribute to publications

Develop research protocols

Track progress over time

Assist with preparation of all educational and training workshops and evaluation strategies

Engage clinical and community partners in research

Market training and technical assistance resources to clinical partners and academic investigators

Develop assessment and evaluation tools

Compile data for progress reports

Requirements:

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis

High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred

Tailor your resume

As you read through the Research Assistant job description, you likely noticed there are things the employer wants that you absolutely know how to do. You should make a list of the skills you have so they align with the duties you'll need to perform in your new job. 

As an example, the first responsibility listed in this Research Assistant job description is the ability to “conduct literature reviews.” You will want that exact verbiage in your resume. Tailoring your Research Assistant resume with the language you find in the job description will help your resume get past the applicant tracking system.

The applicant tracking system – ATS

Make no mistake: almost every job you apply to will push your resume through the ATS before it gets into the hands of a hiring manager. It will scan your resume for everything from experience level and education to keywords. 

Let's take a look at some of the skills you should consider including in your Research Assistant resume.

Research Assistant top skills & proficiencies

By using the exact wording from the Research Assistant job description, you'll be speaking directly to the bot through relevant keywords. Use those skill-related keywords and make sure you have a good balance of hard and soft skills .

Hard skills are things you know how to do because of education, on-the-job training, and experience. In other words, they're what you've learned over the course of your career. It's pretty easy to distinguish them because they are quantifiable. Meaning you can put a number with them. 

For example, if you're using “data collection” as one of your hard skills, you can quantify it by saying that you “collect data from 3 disparate sources or data lakes to compile actionable reports for senior leaders.”

Soft skills are not often quantifiable. These types of skills are the interpersonal abilities you possess that allow you to get along with others and solve problems. 

Communication

Attention to detail

Critical thinking

Planning and scheduling

Interviewing

Data collection

Conflict resolution

Related reading: 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

The Research Assistant job description is the key to job search success

At the end of the day, the goal of applying for any job is to win an interview. By using the Research Assistant job description, you'll get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.

If you want to be certain that you've got the right skills and keywords in your resume from the Research Assistant job description, TopResume will perform a free resume review for you. 

Recommended reading

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