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Associate Research Director Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

This position works under the direction of an associate research scientist, research scientist, senior research scientist, director of R&D or VP of PMTDD and follows standard laboratory procedures ...

This position works under the direction of an associate research scientist, research scientist, senior research scientist, director of R&D or VP of PMTDD and follows standard laboratory procedures ...

CLA is growing and seeking to hire a Senior Associate - R&D Tax Credits to join our talented ... Demonstrated success in a business environment. * Assist managers, directors, and principals with ...

CLA is growing and seeking to hire a Senior Associate - R&D Tax Credits to join our talented ... Demonstrated success in a business environment. * Assist managers, directors, and principals with ...

Research Associate II

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$27/hr

R&D Partners is seeking to hire a Research Associate II in Tucson, AZ . Your main responsibilities ... Our team offers well over 200 years of combined staffing experience providing consulting, direct ...

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Associate Research Director information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate research director?

To thrive as an Associate Research Director, you need advanced expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and project management, usually supported by a graduate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), data visualization tools, and experience with research management systems are typically required. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills enable you to guide teams and present complex findings to stakeholders effectively. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality research insights, ensuring project success, and supporting organizational goals.

What is the difference between Associate Research Director vs Research Manager?

AspectAssociate Research DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field, often with research experienceBachelor's or Master's, with focus on project management and research oversight
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, overseeing research teams, high-level decision makingManaging research projects, coordinating teams, ensuring project deliverables
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, academic, and government research settingsCommon in corporate and institutional research departments

The Associate Research Director typically holds a higher strategic role, overseeing multiple research projects and teams, while the Research Manager focuses on managing specific research projects and day-to-day operations. Both roles require strong research credentials, but the Associate Research Director is more involved in strategic planning and leadership.

What are some common challenges faced by associate research directors when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Associate Research Directors often juggle several projects at once, which requires excellent organizational and time management skills. Balancing priorities, allocating resources efficiently, and ensuring consistent communication across teams can be demanding, especially when deadlines overlap or project scopes change. Additionally, maintaining high-quality standards while mentoring junior researchers and coordinating with senior leadership adds to the complexity. To succeed, it's important to develop strong delegation skills and foster collaborative relationships within the research team.

What is an associate research director?

An Associate Research Director is a senior-level professional who helps oversee the planning, execution, and management of research projects within an organization. They typically support the Research Director by supervising research teams, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget, and maintaining the quality and integrity of research output. Associate Research Directors also play a key role in developing research strategies, analyzing data, and communicating findings to stakeholders. Their position often serves as a bridge between research staff and upper management.

Is an associate research director a high level position?

An Associate Research Director is considered a senior-level position within research organizations, often responsible for overseeing research projects, managing teams, and contributing to strategic planning. It typically requires extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge in the field.
What are popular job titles related to Associate Research Director jobs in Arizona? For Associate Research Director jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Associate Research Director job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate II

Caris Life Sciences

Tempe, AZ โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word-a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That's why we're not just transforming cancer care-we're changing lives.
We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: "What would I do if this patient were my mom?" That question drives everything we do.
But our mission doesn't stop with cancer. We're pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare-driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose.
Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you're passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins.
Position Summary
Research Associate IIs (RAIIs) are responsible for performing various techniques that include, but are not limited to, staining and scanning of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue macro-dissection, RNA/DNA extractions, assays for nucleic acid quantification and QC, PCR and real time PCR, Next Generation Sequencing, protein extraction, assays for protein quantification and QC, western Blotting, ELISA and ELONA, sample preparation for mass spectrometry, aptamer selection, biomarker discovery / target ID, affinity purification, immunoprecipitation, proximity labeling assays, cell culture, cell growth and viability assays, cytotoxicity assays, and immunocytochemistry.
Furthermore, RAIIs are responsible for equipment maintenance, laboratory inventory, sample tracking, ordering supplies, receiving packages, and training Molecular Technologists and Lab Operation Specialists. This position works under the direction of an associate research scientist, research scientist, senior research scientist, director of R&D or VP of PMTDD and follows standard laboratory procedures and policies.
Job Responsibilities
  • Participate in planning experiments and execute them.
  • Trains Molecular Lab Operations Specialists, Molecular Technologists, and Research Associates in new technologies, implementing technology changes, or upon hire.
  • Maintains laboratory equipment, including completing logs and maintenance, e.g., cleaning, sterilize, maintaining, and shut down laboratory equipment, accessories, and instruments used in research experiments, daily and weekly as required.
  • Unpacks reagent orders as received; logs them in the reagent database; creates labels, tracking documentation, and QC forms; and stores them in the proper location and conditions.
  • Accepts other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a science related field and 2 years of post- graduation laboratory experience is required or a Master's degree in a science related field and 1 year of laboratory experience.
  • Demonstrate clear ability to explain previous molecular assay experience, including the function of positive/negative controls, sample results, and data interpretation.
  • Hand-on experience in at least 5 of the following technologies are required: staining and scanning of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue macro-dissection, RNA/DNA extractions, assays for nucleic acid quantification and QC, PCR and real time PCR, Next Generation Sequencing, protein extraction, assays for protein quantification and QC, Western Blotting, ELISA and ELONA, sample preparation for mass spectrometry, aptamer selection, biomarker discovery / target ID, affinity purification, immunoprecipitation, proximity labeling assays, cell culture, cell growth and viability assays, cytotoxicity assays, and immunocytochemistry.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in experimental design and troubleshooting is a plus.
  • Ability to analyze, interpret, summarize, and present research results is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ownership in projects or experiments is a plus.

Physical Demand
  • Will work at a computer some of the time as well as need to keep inventory and ordering records requiring the use of copiers, fax machines, and PDF scanners.
  • Visual acuity and analytical skill to distinguish fine detail. Ability to pass a visual color discrimination test.
  • Manual dexterity to use common laboratory equipment and perform sterile techniques as required.
  • Must possess ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
  • Must possess ability to perform repetitive motion.
  • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • May have exposure to high noise levels, fumes, and bio-hazardous material in the lab environment. Exposure to formaldehyde, xylene, Clorox Bleach, DAB and alcohol which emit fumes. The formaldehyde, xylene, and DAB are carcinogenic.
  • May be required to handle blood-borne pathogens and general laboratory reagents.
  • May have exposure to extreme temperatures, high noise levels, fumes and bio-hazardous material/chemicals including formalin in the lab environment.

Required Training
  • All job specific, safety, and compliance training are assigned based on the job functions associated with this employee.

Other
  • This position requires periodic travel and some evenings, weekends and/or Holidays.

Conditions of Employment: Individual must successfully complete pre-employment process, which includes criminal background check, drug screening, credit check ( applicable for certain positions) and reference verification.
This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Caris Life Sciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.