How much does a Research Associate make?
A Research Associate can expect to earn an average yearly salary of about $68,446. This is a solid starting point for those interested in scientific, clinical, or academic research. Many Research Associates gain experience and grow into higher positions.
Salaries for Research Associates can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start at around $36,000 per year. As experience increases, so can the salary. Here are some common salary ranges:
- 10th percentile: $36,000
- 25th percentile: $46,688
- 50th percentile: $57,375
- 75th percentile: $78,750
- 90th percentile: $100,125
Factors like education, specific industry, and location can also affect earnings. Research Associates with advanced degrees or certifications may earn more. Locations with a high cost of living, like big cities, can offer higher salaries to offset these costs.
What are the highest paying cities for a Research Associate?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $94,156
In San Francisco, a tech hub, professionals thrive in innovative environments. Companies like Google and Uber seek dedicated minds to drive research forward. The city offers a dynamic atmosphere with numerous opportunities for career growth.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $86,557
Boston is a great place for those in research. Harvard and MIT offer exciting projects and collaborations. The city's rich history and vibrant culture make it a unique place to work and live.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $81,554
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a prime location for tech research. Companies such as Apple and Tesla rely on fresh ideas. The fast-paced environment pushes professionals to excel and innovate.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,272
Sacramento offers a balanced work-life environment. Research professionals here contribute to public policy and healthcare advancements. The city's growing tech scene provides ample opportunities for collaboration.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $79,946
Salt Lake City combines natural beauty with professional opportunities. Companies in biotech and tech value research. The supportive community makes it an attractive place for career development.
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Winston-Salem, NC
Average Salary: $77,679
Winston-Salem is known for its research and medical advancements. Institutions like Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center offer robust research programs. The city provides a welcoming environment for growth and innovation.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $76,176
New Haven is home to Yale University, offering a wealth of research opportunities. Professionals here work on cutting-edge projects in various fields. The city's academic atmosphere fosters intellectual curiosity and growth.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $75,769
Boulder combines outdoor activities with research opportunities. The University of Colorado and local tech firms focus on environmental and technological research. The community is vibrant and supportive of professional development.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $75,088
Rochester is a center for medical research, thanks to the Mayo Clinic. Professionals here work on groundbreaking healthcare projects. The city's strong emphasis on education and innovation makes it an exciting place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $75,078
Seattle offers a blend of tech innovation and natural beauty. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft drive research in tech and healthcare. The city's progressive environment encourages creativity and collaboration.
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What are the best companies a Research Associate can work for?

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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $184,917
Wells Fargo offers Research Associate roles in major cities across the U.S. These positions focus on financial analysis and market research. Employees help develop new banking products and services.
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Morgan Stanley
Average Salary: $181,667
Morgan Stanley provides Research Associate opportunities in locations like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. These roles involve in-depth market analysis and investment research to support the firm's financial strategies.
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Truist
Average Salary: $168,879
Truist offers Research Associate positions in cities such as Charlotte, Atlanta, and Orlando. These roles involve data analysis and market research to help the bank make informed financial decisions.
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TD Bank
Average Salary: $146,250
TD Bank has Research Associate positions in cities like Toronto, New York, and Miami. These roles focus on financial market analysis and client service research to improve banking services.
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Deutsche Bank
Average Salary: $129,636
Deutsche Bank offers Research Associate roles in locations such as Frankfurt, London, and New York. These roles involve extensive market research and analysis to support investment banking activities.
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RBC
Average Salary: $129,167
RBC provides Research Associate opportunities in cities like Toronto, New York, and London. These positions focus on financial analysis and market research to support the bank's growth strategies.
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Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Average Salary: $128,613
Takeda Pharmaceuticals offers Research Associate roles in locations such as Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Osaka, Japan. These positions focus on pharmaceutical research and development to create new medical treatments.
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Average Salary: $117,736
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory provides Research Associate positions in Livermore, California. These roles focus on scientific research and development in areas like nuclear energy and national security.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $113,370
Deloitte offers Research Associate roles in major cities across the U.S. and globally. These positions focus on consulting and market research to help clients make strategic decisions.
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Wolfe Research
Average Salary: $108,864
Wolfe Research offers Research Associate positions in New York City. These roles involve financial market analysis and investment research to support the firm's clients.
How to earn more as a Research Associate?
Becoming a Research Associate with a higher earning potential can involve several strategic choices. Focus on areas that can boost your salary and career opportunities. Gaining specialized skills and certifications can make your resume stand out. These skills can include data analysis, programming, or laboratory techniques relevant to your field. Employers often value these additional qualifications, leading to better job offers.
Networking plays a vital role in career advancement. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with colleagues on platforms like LinkedIn. Building a strong professional network can lead to job referrals and insider tips on high-paying opportunities. Engaging with a community of professionals can also provide insights into emerging trends and areas with higher demand.
Consider pursuing a master's or Ph.D. if it aligns with your career goals. Advanced degrees can open doors to higher-paying positions and leadership roles. Employers may offer better salaries to candidates with higher qualifications. This investment in education can lead to more rewarding and lucrative job offers.
Look for positions in high-demand industries or locations. Certain sectors, like biotechnology or pharmaceuticals, often offer higher salaries. Similarly, major cities or regions with a concentration of research institutions may provide better pay. Researching salary trends in different areas can guide your job search.
Seek out roles that offer a clear path for advancement. Some positions may provide better opportunities for salary growth over time. Speak with current or former employees to understand the career trajectory. Choosing a path with potential for advancement can lead to higher earnings in the long run.



