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Associate Biologist information

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$17

$32

$45

How much do associate biologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate biologist in Tennessee is $32.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.39 and $36.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with an associate in biology?

An associate degree in biology prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as laboratory technician, research assistant, wildlife technician, or environmental technician. These positions often require knowledge of lab techniques, data collection, and environmental regulations, and may lead to further education or certification for advanced opportunities.

What are some common challenges Associate Biologists face when working on research projects?

Associate Biologists often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines, ensuring accurate data collection in field or laboratory settings, and adapting to rapidly changing research priorities. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is essential, which requires strong communication skills and flexibility. Staying current with evolving scientific techniques and regulatory guidelines can also be demanding but contributes significantly to professional growth.

Is an associate's in biology worth it?

An associate's degree in biology can provide foundational knowledge and skills useful for entry-level biological technician or laboratory assistant roles. However, many advanced positions in biology require a bachelor's degree or higher, so the degree's value depends on career goals and the specific job requirements.

What is an Associate Biologist?

An Associate Biologist is a professional who assists in conducting biological research, experiments, and data analysis under the supervision of senior biologists or scientists. Their work often involves field studies, laboratory work, data collection, and report preparation to support various biological projects. Associate Biologists typically work for research institutions, environmental agencies, or private companies, contributing to studies related to ecology, wildlife, conservation, or biotechnology. They usually hold a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and may be involved in both independent and collaborative projects.

What is the highest paid associate's degree?

For an associate biologist, the highest paid degrees are typically in fields like biotechnology, environmental science, or zoology, which can lead to higher-paying positions in research or management. Earning certifications or gaining experience in specialized tools like GIS or laboratory techniques can also increase earning potential. However, advanced degrees such as a bachelor's or master's often result in higher salaries in biological fields.

What is the difference between Associate Biologist vs Research Biologist?

AspectAssociate BiologistResearch Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, often with research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sites, environmental agenciesResearch labs, academic institutions, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental firms, biotech companies, government agenciesUniversities, research institutes, government research labs

The main difference between an Associate Biologist and a Research Biologist lies in their experience level and scope of responsibilities. Associate Biologists typically support research projects and perform routine lab or field work, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Research Biologists usually have more experience or advanced degrees, leading independent research roles. Both roles are vital in biological research, but the Research Biologist generally has greater responsibilities and autonomy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Biologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Biologist, you need a background in biology or a related science, typically with a bachelor's degree or higher, along with strong research and analytical skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, scientific software (such as GIS or statistical analysis tools), and relevant certifications like HAZWOPER or field survey permits are often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong written and verbal communication skills help you excel in both independent research and collaborative projects. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, effective research outcomes, and compliance with scientific and regulatory standards.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

Associate biologists typically earn less than $100,000, but advanced roles such as senior biologists, research directors, or specialized consultants in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental firms often have salaries exceeding $100,000. These positions usually require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in specific biological sciences or laboratory techniques.
What are the most commonly searched types of Biologist jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Biologist jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Associate Biologist jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Associate Biologist job openings:
Associate Biologist jobs near you
Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology - UTK

Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description


The Suissa lab in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the lab (https://www.botaneelab.com/). This 2-year, full-time position will focus on the hydraulics of seed-free plants, with an emphasis on mechanisms of drought tolerance.
The successful candidate will take a leading role in advancing research on vulnerability to drought-induced embolism and vascular architecture in seed-free plants. This work will integrate physiological and anatomical approaches to address fundamental questions in plant function and evolution. The fellow will be expected to drive projects toward publication, contribute to grant development, and actively engage with the broader EEB community.
Responsibilities
  • Lead research on vulnerability to embolism in seed-free plants
  • Conduct anatomical analyses on vascular structure.
  • Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Present research at national and international conferences.
  • Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Education: PhD in plant physiology, ecophysiology, evolutionary biology, or related field.
  • Experience:
    • Strong background in physiology, hydraulics, and anatomy.
    • Experience with estimating vulnerability to drought-induced embolism (preferred using the optical vulnerability method).
  • Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
    • Proficient in statistical analyses and data visualization, using R or a related language.
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.
Work Location
  • Location: Knoxville, TN
  • Onsite

Compensation and Benefits
  • Anticipated hiring range: $62,000
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions
To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before June 30, 2026 or until position is filled.
  • Resume/CV
  • Summary of research interests and experiences

About The Department
EEB is in the top 10% of ecology programs in North America based on research impact (Keville et al., 2017), ahead of peer institutions such as UCLA and UC San Diego. Our faculty and students come from around the globe. Our faculty is a mix of internationally known senior researchers and an energetic group of junior faculty at the cutting edges of their fields. We train graduate and undergraduate students with research interests in ecology, evolutionary biology, animal behavior, conservation biology, behavioral and population genetics, computational biology, development of theory for evolution and ecology, ecosystem and community ecology, global change biology, diverse areas of organismal biology, and biology education.
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

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