The Research Associate job provides key laboratory research support to the scientist-level staff in the R&D function and often requires post-graduate training. The Principal Research Associate often acts as a primary investigator of independent research projects, where individual judgment is applied toward developing tools and techniques. There may also be a supervisory role as well as involvement in cross-functional teams. Typical salaries range from $38K to $70K.

Senior Research Associates perform scientific experiments in collaboration with others and are called upon to exercise their own judgment in completing experiments. They also develop and implement tools and methods to meet the objectives of the research group. Typical salaries range from $52K to $60K.

Research Associates perform research and laboratory tasks (e.g., make observation, gather and analyze data, and interpret results) that support the projects of senior staff members. They work under direct supervision of group but often have some discretion in carrying out their assigned tasks. They also prepare technical reports, summaries, protocols, and quantitative analyses. Typical salaries range from $38K to $50K.