A research associate is a professional who is typically employed at an academic or research institution, a private research organization, or sometimes in the corporate sector. The role of a research associate can vary depending on the sector and organization, but generally, they are responsible for conducting research, assisting with research projects, and supporting the work of senior researchers or principal investigators.
In every field, research holds a vital position, which requires the expertise of highly skilled and experienced individuals. The role of a research associate provides a platform for analytical minds to explore uncharted areas of knowledge. This article elaborates on the research associate profile, discusses its responsibilities, eligibility criteria, salary, and various perks and benefits associated with the position.
Who are research associates?
Research Associates are skilled individuals who are tasked with collecting and evaluating data from both primary and secondary sources to address existing challenges. Working under the guidance of a supervisor and the advice of universities or institutes, RAs delve into various scientific projects. Their work is crucial in research departments, where they play a vital role in uncovering new insights. These positions are available in prestigious institutions such as IITs, universities, postgraduate colleges, government research establishments, recognized R&D facilities in the public or private sector, industrial firms, and other reputed organizations.
How to become a research associate?
Since, every year a certain number of Research Associateships are awarded directly by UGC.CSIR For young research workers who have shown an integral interest in original research in science, engineering, medicine or technology on specific projects. The Research Associate will undertake full-time research on the problems stated in his/her application and approved by the. UGCThe eligibility criteria for Research Associateship are given below:
To determine the eligibility criteria for a Research Associate position, the specific requirements may vary depending on the institution, area of ​​research, and level of responsibility involved. However, I can provide you with a general overview of the general qualifications and skills expected of a Research Associate:
- Education: The minimum requirement is typically a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, social sciences or humanities. However, some positions may require a master’s degree or higher, particularly for more specialized or advanced research areas.
- research experience: Research associates are expected to have prior research experience through academic study or previous employment. This may include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting research findings. It is important to be familiar with research methods and techniques.
Age Limit for Research Associate
The age limit for Research Associate is given below category wise
- The upper age limit to apply for Research Assistant will be 35 years.
- The upper age limit is relaxed up to 5 years in case of physically handicapped applicants belonging to SC/ST categories and female applicants, while in case of OBC (non-creamy layer candidates) it is relaxed up to 3 years.
Research Associate Level
Candidates working as Research Associate get different remuneration depending on their level of education and experience in the research field. As per the recent update from DST, the stipend for Research Associate has been increased for all levels. There is a hierarchy followed by Research Associate (RA) and it has three different levels:
| S.No. | Level/Category |
|---|---|
| 1 | Level I. |
| 2 | Level IIEdit |
| 3 | Level IIIEdit |
Research Associate Job Profile
Research Associateship is an opportunity for talented young men and women to explore new research areas under the expert guidance of faculty members/scientists working in various University departments/National Laboratories and Institutes of UGC/CSIR. RA major work includes
- Working on the project under the guidance of the supervisor: Research associates are provided projects in various scientific areas as per the requirement of UGC. They also get meaningful guidance from their supervisor who is a professor or department head of the institute.
- Handling the laboratory and other experimental activities: Since a research associate has to perform many experiments and activities, the laboratory and its equipment must be handled carefully while working.
- Submission of progress report on the project to the authorities after the specified period: The mandatory part of the RA is to prepare an annual progress report on the research work done which will be an essential part of the Associate’s work. This report should be submitted through his guide/Head of Department within a period of 15 days after the completion of one year tenure of Associateship.
- He may obtain consent from UGC to take up temporary paid lecturership/research assignment in any recognized R&D University, College/Institute of repute.
Research Associate Salary in hand
The Research Associate is a budgetary position with a formal job description and will typically work in a department and be available to provide research support. The RA must have a PhD qualification. The RA receives salary as per the standards maintained by the UGC (University Grants Commission). The salary of an RA depends on the level of qualification of the Research Associate. It constitutes of various components as mentioned below:
| Research Associate Salary in hand | |
| Basic remuneration | 47000 |
| HRA (9%-27%) | 4230-12690 |
| Overhead Charges | 500 |
| Revised Remuneration | 51800-60200 |
| contingency grant | 20,000 per year |
Research Associate Revised Stipend
The research associate stipend varies depending on the level of experience and the research work done. DST has increased the research associate stipend, which has been revised as per the guidelines of UGC regulations.
| Social class | Latest Emoluments |
| Level I. | Rs. 58,000/- |
| Level IIEdit | Rs. 61,000/- |
| Level IIIEdit | Rs. 63,000/- |
Research Associate Career Opportunities
Pursuing a career as a research associate can open up many opportunities in academia, industry, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Here are some common career paths and opportunities for research associates:
- Academic: Research associates often work at universities and research institutes, collaborating with faculty members and researchers on a variety of projects. They may contribute to research publications, assist with grant writing, and mentor students. This experience can serve as a stepping stone toward obtaining advanced degrees or academic positions such as assistant professor or research scientist.
- Industry Research: Many industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, engineering and technology, hire research associates to contribute to research and development efforts. Research associates may work on product development, process optimization, data analysis or innovation projects. They may also contribute to patent filings and intellectual property development.
- government agencies: Government research institutions, such as national laboratories or research agencies, often employ research associates for scientific investigation and policy development. They may be involved in areas such as environmental research, public health studies, energy research, or defense-related projects.
- non profit organization: Research associates may find opportunities in nonprofit organizations focused on specific research areas such as healthcare, education, social sciences or environmental protection. They may contribute to research studies, program evaluation or policy analysis while working toward the organization’s mission.
- Counseling: Research associates with expertise in a particular area may choose to work as research consultants. They may offer their research and analytical skills to clients in a variety of sectors, assisting with market research, data analysis, program evaluation, or strategic planning.
- Entrepreneurship: Some research associates may leverage their research experience and knowledge to start their own venture. They may explore opportunities to commercialize research results, develop new technology, or provide specialized consultancy services
RA Benefits and Allowances
Following is the list of benefits and allowances provided to Research Assistants:
- DA: Research Associates are not provided with Dearness Allowance.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Research Associates staying in hostels do not get House Rent Allowance. This allowance is given only to those candidates who do not have hostel facility. The rate varies from 9 to 27% depending on the city you are working in.
- Medical Benefits: These benefits are provided to research associates as per the rules of the Institute.
- Leave and other entitlements: RA is eligible for 30 days of ‘leave with stipend’. Any leave in excess of this limit of 30 leaves is treated as leave without stipend.
- Maternity Leave: Female RA can avail 180 days leave on grounds of maternity. Such leave will be sanctioned by the guide/supervisor after informing the UGC.
- Paternity Leave: These are available to male research associates. These are for 15 days and should be granted only after documentary proof.
Conclusion: So, Research Associate is a research-oriented profile that offers an opportunity to young minds holding a doctoral degree (PhD) in the field of science, humanities and social sciences to work on a specified project and issues faced by the contemporary world. A candidate who wants to work as a Research Associate should look for various online sites of renowned institutes and UGC for projects available to work on on a regular basis.
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