Senior Research Associate

Syneos Health Careers$80K — $95K *
US-AnywhereRemote in Wisconsin, US
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's degree in public health, epidemiology, health sciences, or related field.
  • 1-2 years of relevant experience (Research Associate) or 2+ years (Senior Research Associate) in life sciences industry.
  • Foundational understanding of real-world research methodologies.
  • Overall understanding of the drug development lifecycle.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • Working knowledge of statistical software (e.g., SAS, R, Stata).

Responsibilities

  • Contribute to study design and methodology development.
  • Deliver project outputs that meet established quality standards and timelines.
  • Conduct structured literature reviews to support RWE initiatives.
  • Participate in qualitative research activities, including patient interviews.
  • Analyze and interpret real-world data for deliverables.
  • Present results to external clients.
  • Support retrospective and prospective real-world studies under senior guidance.

Benefits

  • Access to experienced mentors and structured development opportunities.
  • Flexible hybrid work model supporting work-life balance.
  • Emphasis on collaboration and high standards.
  • Exposure to innovative technologies in research.
  • Long-term career growth potential in the life sciences industry.
Full Job Description
Description
Senior Research Associate

Job Responsibilities

JOB TITLE: Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, Real World Evidence

SELECT ONE: Clinical Solutions

JOB CODE: SH1317/ SH1323

REPORTS TO: Associate Director, Real World Evidence; or designee

Business Unit: Real World & Late Phase (RWLP)
Industry: Life Sciences
Location: US or Canada (Hybrid/Remote)

Position Overview

The Research Associate/Senior Research Associate, Real World Evidence (RWE) is part of the global Real World & Late Phase (RWLP) Business Unit, supporting the generation of real-world evidence, and patient outcomes evidence across the drug development lifecycle.

In this role, you will contribute to and or lead real-world research initiatives that inform clinical strategy, regulatory engagement, and market access decisions for life sciences clients. Working closely with senior team members, you will support the design and execution of retrospective and prospective studies while developing your expertise in RWE and outcomes research methodologies.

This position is well suited to professionals seeking meaningful exposure to or to deepen their expertise in evidence generation within a collaborative, well-supported team environment that values high-quality work and sustainable performance.

Key Responsibilities
  • Contribute to study design and methodology development
  • Develop innovative approaches, frameworks and solutions to client problems
  • Deliver project outputs that meet established quality standards, timelines, and budget requirements.
  • Conduct structured literature reviews and targeted secondary research to support RWE initiatives.
  • Participate in qualitative research activities, including patient interviews, to generate actionable healthcare insights.
  • Analyze and interpret qualitative and quantitative 'real-world' data for deliverables
  • Conduct workshops and moderate discussions
  • Present results to external clients
  • Contribute to the development of:
    • Study protocols
    • Technical reports
    • Manuscripts and scientific posters
    • Client presentations
  • Develop and format materials using PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
  • Summarize and synthesize complex clinical and outcomes data into clear, structured findings.
  • Support retrospective and prospective real-world studies under senior guidance.
  • Demonstrate openness to leveraging emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools, to improve efficiency, analytical rigor, and personal productivity.


Qualifications

Required
  • Master's degree in public health, epidemiology, health sciences, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
  • 1-2 years (Research Associate), or 2+ years (Senior Research Associate) of relevant experience within the life sciences industry (e.g., HEOR, RWE, clinical research, pharmaceutical industry, healthcare consulting, or academia).
  • Foundational understanding of real-world research methodologies and study design.
  • Overall understanding of the drug development lifecycle.
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • Working knowledge of statistical software (e.g., SAS, R, Stata, or similar).
  • Business-level conversational English (written and spoken).

Preferred
  • Graduate degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant discipline.
  • Academic or industry research experience.
  • Conducting analyses in databases and/or registries


Key Competencies
  • Clear and professional communication skills
  • Strong teamwork and collaboration
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a structured, deadline-driven environment
  • Intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous improvement, including adoption of new technologies
  • Willingness to travel (~10%)


Work Environment

As part of a global RWLP team, you will work within an international, cross-functional environment with access to experienced mentors and structured development opportunities. Our hybrid model offers flexibility, and our team culture emphasizes high standards, collaboration, and sustainable performance to support long-term career growth in the life sciences industry.

Additional Information

Tasks, duties, and responsibilities as listed in this job description are not exhaustive. The Company, at its sole discretion and with no prior notice, may assign other tasks, duties, and job responsibilities. Equivalent experience, skills, and/or education will also be considered so qualifications of incumbents may differ from those listed in the Job Description. The Company, at its sole discretion, will determine what constitutes as equivalent to the qualifications described above. Further, nothing contained herein should be construed to create an employment contract. Occasionally, required skills/experiences for jobs are expressed in brief terms. Any language contained herein is intended to fully comply with all obligations imposed by the legislation of each country in which it operates, including the implementation of the EU Equality Directive, in relation to the recruitment and employment of its employees.

About Syneos Health Careers

Syneos Health Careers

Joining Syneos Health presents an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a global team of professionals dedicated to biopharmaceutical solutions. At Syneos Health, job opportunities abound, offering a gateway to enhancing career paths in a company celebrated for its commitment to therapeutic and operational excellence.

Work That Matters

Syneos Health is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, collaborating on projects that integrate smart technology and human ingenuity to improve patient outcomes. This dynamic company is actively seeking professionals who are eager to drive progress in the biopharmaceutical field through diverse job opportunities ranging from scientific roles to operational positions.

Innovative Employment Opportunities

Syneos Health offers a variety of positions that cater to a range of skills and experiences, from entry-level to senior leadership roles. Employment at Syneos Health means contributing to a culture that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring every team member’s voice is heard and valued.

Internship Programs and Professional Growth

For those starting their career, Syneos Health provides robust internship programs designed to foster professional growth and build essential industry skills. Interns at Syneos Health gain hands-on experience, beneficial for future employment opportunities within the company or the broader healthcare industry.

Cultivating Leadership and Professional Development

Syneos Health is committed to the professional development of its employees, offering leadership training and career growth opportunities that encourage innovation and leadership skills. Employees are supported through comprehensive benefits, diversity training, and initiatives that promote personal and professional growth.

Join a Team of Experts

The team at Syneos Health is composed of industry-leading experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the company. Networking within Syneos Health’s global community allows for unparalleled professional development and insights into the latest industry trends.

Explore Career Opportunities

Syneos Health is hiring! Explore the numerous positions available that match a variety of skills and interests. The company looks for driven, curious, and innovative team players ready to make a significant impact in the healthcare industry.

Stay Connected with Syneos Health Careers

Stay informed about the latest career tips, industry insights, and job opportunities at Syneos Health. Tailor your job search with personalized alerts and keep up to date with the newest openings to find a position that suits your career aspirations.

APPLY TO JOBS AT SYNEOS HEALTH

Engage with Us

Discover more about the culture, values, and opportunities at Syneos Health by connecting with current team members and leaders. Learn firsthand about the company’s commitment to growth, innovation, and leadership in the healthcare sector.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Syneos Health.
Learn more about Syneos Health Careers
Industry

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Syneos Health Careers

More Pharmaceuticals & Biotech Jobs

Find similar Senior Research Associate jobs: