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Contract Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Contract Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$122K - $145K/yr

Collaborate with representatives from contract research organizations (CROs) on clinical trial agreements (CTAs) and amendments with clinical trial sites, including development of CTA templates and ...

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Contract Research information

What is contract research?

Contract research refers to research services provided by an external organization, known as a Contract Research Organization (CRO), to other businesses, academic institutions, or government agencies. These services often include conducting clinical trials, laboratory testing, data analysis, or product development on a contractual basis. Contract research allows companies to access specialized expertise, reduce costs, and focus on their core activities while outsourcing complex or resource-intensive research tasks.

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

To thrive as a Contract Research Associate, you need a background in life sciences or a related field, strong research methodology knowledge, and often a relevant degree (such as a BSc or MSc). Familiarity with clinical trial management systems (CTMS), Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification, and data analysis tools like SPSS or SAS are typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating studies and managing stakeholders. These abilities ensure high-quality, compliant research execution and reliable study outcomes within regulatory frameworks.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in contract research roles and how can they be managed?

Professionals in contract research often navigate tight deadlines, shifting client requirements, and the need to maintain strict regulatory compliance. Balancing multiple projects simultaneously and communicating effectively with both internal teams and external sponsors can be demanding. Proactively managing workload, staying organized, and maintaining clear, consistent communication with stakeholders are key strategies to overcome these challenges. Additionally, staying updated on industry regulations and leveraging project management tools can help ensure successful outcomes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in California?

The most popular types of Research jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Research jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Contract Research Associate (In Vivo)

Alameda, CA • On-site

5AM Ventures
Investment Clubs and Venture Capital Companies • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Overview At Renasant Bio, we are driven by a singular goal: to change what's possible for patients with kidney disease. ADPKD remains one of the most challenging areas in medicine, and we believe it requires bold thinking, rigorous science, and a team committed to doing things differently. We're looking for individuals who bring both scientific rigor and creativity to hard problems, and who believe great work is built through respectful, direct collaboration. You communicate with honesty and transparency, adapt quickly as priorities evolve, and hold yourself—and others—to a high standard. Above all, you operate with urgency and purpose, grounded in the knowledge that patients are waiting. Based at Bakar Labs in Berkeley, CA with additional support in Cambridge, MA, we are advancing new therapies designed to make a meaningful difference for patients.

The Role

Responsibilities

Collaborate with scientists to evaluate novel therapeutic candidates using transgenic mouse models, including target validation and mechanism of action studies. Oversee and maintain mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, colony expansion, and accurate inventory tracking of vivarium supplies. Perform routine in vivo tasks, including animal handling, dosing (PO, IV, IP, SC), blood and tissue collection, sample processing, anesthesia administration, and euthanasia as needed. Monitor animal health, maintain compliance with IACUC protocols, and ensure ethical standards in animal care. Provide detailed documentation of experimental protocols, observations, and results. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, contributing to discussions on in vivo models and study outcomes. Adapt to the evolving needs of the team and contribute to maintaining aggressive project timelines.

Qualifications

Education:

B.Sc degree in a relevant scientific field with 1-2 years of hands‐on experience in preclinical research or a bachelor's degree with equivalent relevant experience. Industry experience is advantageous but not required.

In Vivo Expertise: Proficiency in rodent handling required; experience with dosing techniques (e.g., IV, IP, SC), blood/tissue collection, and surgical techniques a plus.

Mouse Colony Management: Demonstrated experience in managing transgenic mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, and maintenance.

Laboratory Skills: Experience with in vivo sample processing and preparation for downstream assays such as histology or molecular analyses.

Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Organization: Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Commitment to Safety: Adherence to laboratory safety and ethical standards in animal research.

Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to team priorities and timelines in a fast‐paced environment. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.