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Clinical Research Associate Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

Baton Rouge, LA ยท On-site

$50K/yr

About this Job Northwestern State University seeks qualified applicants for the position of Research Associate. This position is in the Preservation Technical Services Division of Northwestern State ...

The Center includes Basic Science, Clinical Research, and Population and Public Health, enabling both focused research and translational science. Research at Pennington is supported broadly by ...

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Clinical Research Associate information

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How much do clinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical research associate in Baton Rouge, LA is $32.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.64 and $41.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical research associate?

Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) are professionals responsible for monitoring and overseeing clinical trials to ensure they are conducted in accordance with regulatory guidelines, protocols, and ethical standards. They play a key role in ensuring the safety of trial participants and the integrity of collected data. CRAs often visit clinical trial sites to verify data accuracy, maintain study documentation, and provide training to site staff. Their work ensures that new drugs, treatments, or medical devices are tested rigorously before they reach the market.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical research associate?

To thrive as a Clinical Research Associate, you need a solid background in life sciences, attention to detail, and experience with clinical trial protocols, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with electronic data capture (EDC) systems, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, and sometimes certifications like ACRP or SOCRA is typically required. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help build effective relationships with research sites and ensure compliance. These skills are vital for maintaining the integrity of clinical trials, ensuring regulatory adherence, and advancing medical research efficiently.

What are some common challenges clinical research associates face when monitoring clinical trial sites?

Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) often encounter challenges such as ensuring protocol compliance across multiple sites, managing tight project timelines, and maintaining accurate documentation. Additionally, CRAs must effectively communicate with site staff to resolve issues and ensure data integrity, all while adhering to regulatory guidelines. Balancing frequent travel, adapting to different site environments, and handling unexpected issues such as patient recruitment delays are also typical aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Clinical Research Associate vs Clinical Trial Coordinator?

AspectClinical Research AssociateClinical Trial Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree, often with clinical research certificationsBachelor's degree, often with clinical research or healthcare certifications
Work EnvironmentMonitors clinical sites, reviews data, ensures complianceCoordinates trial activities, manages schedules, and communicates with sites
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, CROs, biotech firmsHospitals, research institutions, CROs

Both roles are essential in clinical trials, with CRAs focusing on site monitoring and compliance, while Clinical Trial Coordinators handle day-to-day trial management. They often collaborate but have distinct responsibilities within the clinical research process.

Is being a clinical research associate worth it?

A clinical research associate (CRA) monitors clinical trials to ensure compliance with protocols and regulations, often requiring strong organizational and communication skills. The role offers opportunities for career growth, competitive salaries, and work in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industries, but it can involve irregular hours and travel. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in medical research and patient safety.

Is it hard to get a clinical research associate job?

Securing a clinical research associate (CRA) position can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree in life sciences or healthcare, along with experience in clinical trials. Strong organizational skills, knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and familiarity with trial management tools can improve job prospects, but entry-level roles may be easier to obtain with relevant internships or certifications.
More about Clinical Research Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Research jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Clinical Research jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

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For Clinical Research Associate jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Clinical Research Associate jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Clinical Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Clinical Research Associate job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,112 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Research Associate 1 or 2 - Vascular Metabolism Lab

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, LA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

About Us:
At the forefront of medical discovery as it relates to understanding the causes of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, Pennington Biomedical Research Center is a campus of Louisiana State University and conducts basic, clinical and population research. The Center includes Basic Science, Clinical Research, and Population and Public Health, enabling both focused research and translational science. Research at Pennington Biomedical is supported broadly by multiple NIH Research Centers, and includes approximately 65 faculty and 20 postdoctoral fellows who comprise a network of 44 laboratories and 13 highly specialized core service facilities. Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).
If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.
Job Posting Title:
Research Associate 1 or 2 - Vascular Metabolism Lab
Position Type:
Other Academic
Department:
LSUPBRC Basic - Vascular Metabolism Laboratory (Timothy Daniel Allerton (00003646))
Work Location:
LSU - Pennington Biomedical
Pay Grade:
Other Academic
Job Description:
Pennington Biomedical Research Center, a world-renowned academic research institute of Louisiana State University, is seeking a Research Associate in the Vascular Metabolism Laboratory.
The Research Associate will be involved in performing various laboratory techniques, including cell culture, PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The successful candidate will collect and process biological samples, analyze experimental data, and assist in the design and execution of research projects. Responsibilities also include maintaining laboratory equipment, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in vascular metabolism and support the advancement of scientific knowledge.
Major Responsibilities
  • Perform various laboratory techniques such as cell culture, PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry.
  • Conduct experiments related to vascular metabolism, including assays to measure metabolic activity and vascular function.
  • Collect and process biological samples, including blood, tissue, and cell samples, following established protocols.
  • Prepare samples for analysis, including extraction, purification, and concentration.
  • Analyze experimental data using specialized software and statistical methods.
  • Interpret results and contribute to the preparation of detailed reports and scientific publications.
  • Assist in the design and execution of research projects, collaborating with senior researchers and other team members.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments, protocols, and results.
  • Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, contributing expertise in vascular metabolism to various research projects.
  • Participate in lab meetings, seminars, and conferences to stay updated on the latest research developments.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or related field.
  • Minimum of one year of laboratory experience with techniques such as cell culture, PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry, which could include internships, coursework, or research projects.
  • Familiarity with sample collection, processing, and preparation methods.
  • Proficiency in data analysis using specialized software and statistical methods.
  • Understanding of experimental design and data interpretation.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for documenting experiments and collaborating with team members.
  • Ability to prepare reports, manuscripts, and presentations based on research findings.
  • Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail for maintaining accurate records and ensuring quality control.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Three (3) to five (5) years of laboratory experience with techniques such as cell culture, PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry.
  • Experience in vascular biology, cell research, or metabolism studies.
  • Familiarity with high-throughput sequencing, single-cell analysis, or flow cytometry.
  • Proficiency in advanced laboratory techniques such as RNA sequencing or proteomics.
  • Experience with imaging-based techniques and analysis.
  • Experience in managing research projects or coordinating with multiple stakeholders.
  • Experience in writing or contributing to grant proposals.

*As part of a career progression group, this vacancy may be filled as a Research Associate 1 or 2 depending on the level of experience of the selected applicant.
Pennington Biomedical Research Center seeks to recruit a highly productive workforce with a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives and will provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and prospective employees. Employment decisions shall be based strictly on merit and without regard to religious or political beliefs, sex, race, or any other non-merit factor.
Additional Job Description:
Competencies:
None
Special Instructions:
Posting Date:
August 21, 2026
Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):
September 4, 2026
Additional Position Information:
Pennington Biomedical is located within state-of-the-art research facilities on a 222-acre campus in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For more information, visit PBRC.
Questions regarding career opportunities at Pennington Biomedical should be sent to hrm@pbrc.edu.
Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.
Benefits - Pennington Biomedical Research Center offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!
Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.
Essential Position (Y/N):
Pennington Biomedical Research Center/LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Contact Information:
Questions or concerns can be directed to PBRC Human Resources at 225-763-2776 or hrm@pbrc.edu.