Research Associate

Auburn University; Auburn (AL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Auburn University invites applications for a Research Assistant role that supports researchers in planning, maintaining, and completing projects aimed at new knowledge and techniques.

The position requires a Master’s degree in a relevant field, up to six years of experience, and may involve data collection, analysis, publication preparation, mentorship, and budget coordination within a limited-term contract.

Qualifications

• Level I: Master’s degree in content specific area of research.
• Level II: Master’s degree + 2 years of research experience.
• Level III: Master’s degree + 4 years of research experience.
• Level IV: Master’s degree + 6 years of research experience.
• Job-related licensure may be required for specific positions.
• Substitutions allowed: Education may substitute for experience.

Responsibilities

• Develops or assists in the development of complex project proposals, plans, and protocols.
• Conducts non-routine experiments, investigations and/or studies related to programs and projects in pursuit of new knowledge, techniques and concepts.
• Coordinates or assists logistics of research to include equipment, materials, and labor needs.
• Collects data/samples related to others' research and in complex cases.
• Records, compiles, processes and analyzes data/samples.
• Documents results and observations in writing as well as presenting results to others.
• May prepare research results for publication or presentation at conferences to include performing literature reviews and writing results and discussions.
• May instruct students and/or supervise others' research in area of expertise.
• May maintain project budgets and/or coordinate funding.

Education

Master's degree in content specific area of research

Master's degree with 2 years of experience in research practices and protocols

Master's degree with 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols

Master's degree with 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols

Job description

Overview

Assists researchers in planning, maintaining or completing research programs and/or projects involved in the discovery of new knowledge, techniques, and concepts which require advanced level scientific/research knowledge, skills and abilities following relevant policies, procedures, regulations and laws.

Responsibilities

• Develops or assists in the development of complex project proposals, plans, and protocols.
• Conducts non-routine experiments, investigations and/or studies related to programs and projects in pursuit of new knowledge, techniques and concepts.
• Coordinates or assists logistics of research to include equipment, materials, and labor needs.
• Collects data/samples related to others' research and in complex cases.
• Records, compiles, processes and analyzes data/samples.
• Documents results and observations in writing as well as presenting results to others.
• May prepare research results for publication or presentation at conferences to include performing literature reviews and writing results and discussions.
• May instruct students and/or supervise others' research in area of expertise.
• May maintain project budgets and/or coordinate funding.

Qualifications

Level I:

• Master's degree in content specific area of research.

Level II

• Master's degree in content specific area of research and 2 years of experience in research practices and protocols.

Level III

• Master's degree in content specific area of research and 4 years of experience in research practices and protocols.

Level IV

• Master's degree in content specific area of research and 6 years of experience in research practices and protocols.

Job related licensure may be required for specific positions.

SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED FOR EXPERIENCE: Yes, When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Contract Type

Limited Term

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.

Posted Date

9/2/2026