Research Associate ; Limited Pool

Hiring Range

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position.

Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The full salary range for this position is Step 1: $30.12 - Step 9: $35.93. The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is Step 1: $30.12/hr.

Review of applications will occur as openings become available. Candidates will be selected for temporary employment in various departments as positions become available. This position is reopened every six months so please re‑apply if you remain interested in the position. This position will close on 12/31/2026.

These union positions are represented by the bargaining unit UPTE:
Research Support Professionals - RX.

Dependent on openings.

Staff Research Associates (SRAs) perform laboratory and/or field experimental procedures in support of academically‑supervised research and teaching within any of the disciplines offered at the University; and perform other related duties as required. Incumbents perform technical determinations and/or make technical observations in one or more fields of scientific endeavor that usually yield technical information and data about the phenomena under investigation.

The fields include but are not limited to anthropology, applied mathematical sciences, bioengineering, chemical sciences, cognitive sciences, comuter scince and engineering, critical race and ethnic studies, environmental systems science, economics, English, environmental engineering, global arts, history, management and business economics, material sciences and engineering, mechanical engineering, philosophy, physics, political science, psychology, public health, sociology, foreign languages, and writing. Installation, operation, and maintenance of laboratory and field instruments may be an essential part of the duties.

The information and data yielded are used primarily for research and teaching, but may also relate to public service. Incumbents work under academic supervision, although they may report directly to a higher level Staff Research Associate or other academic personnel. They may participate or assist in teaching activities by discussing experimental procedures with students or demonstrating procedures. Normally, engagement in teaching activities is ancillary to engagement in research activities under academic supervision.

Under supervision, incumbents perform standard repetitive, technical laboratory and/or field experimental procedures and/or receive training in the more difficult procedures usually requiring a theoretical background in one scientific field. The fields include but are not limited to anthropology, applied mathematical sciences, bioengineering, chemical sciences, cognitive sciences, comuter scince and engineering, critical race and ethnic studies, environmental systems science, economics, English, environmental engineering, global arts, history, management and business economics, material sciences and engineering, mechanical engineering, philosophy, physics, political science, psychology, public health, sociology, foreign languages, and writing.

Incumbents are expected to possess the skills, knowledge, and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the positions. These skills, knowledge, and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of extensive study and experience.

Background check will be required.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.