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Entry Level Preclinical Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Utah

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL

$10 - $22/hr

... Level S1 - Entry Level Support, S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient ... We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Lab Technician to support PCM's preclinical research ...

University of Utah

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$10 - $22/hr

... Level S1 - Entry Level Support, S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient ... We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Lab Technician to support PCM's preclinical research ...

University of Utah

Laboratory Technicians

Campus, IL · On-site

$10 - $22/hr

... Level S1 - Entry Level Support, S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient ... We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Lab Technician to support PCM's preclinical research ...

Pharmaron

PRN Research Assistant

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain entry-level experience in clinical ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

Pharmaron

Research Assistant

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain entry-level experience in clinical ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

Pharmaron

Research Assistant

Baltimore, MD

$20 - $25/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain entry-level experience in clinical ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

Pharmaron

Research Assistant

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain entry-level experience in clinical ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

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Entry Level Preclinical Research information

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How much do entry level preclinical research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level preclinical research in the United States is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level preclinical research?

Entry level preclinical research refers to positions that support scientific studies conducted before clinical trials in humans, usually in pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies. These roles often involve assisting with laboratory experiments, data collection, animal care, and documentation to help evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new drugs or treatments. Employees in these positions typically work under the supervision of senior researchers or scientists and learn essential laboratory techniques and regulatory requirements. It is an important starting point for a career in biomedical research or drug development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level preclinical researcher?

To thrive as an Entry Level Preclinical Researcher, you need a solid background in biological sciences or a related field, with a bachelor’s degree often required. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and compliance with regulations such as GLP are typically expected. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate experimentation, reliable data collection, and smooth collaboration, which are crucial for advancing research and meeting regulatory standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level preclinical researchers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in preclinical research often encounter challenges such as learning complex laboratory protocols, adapting to strict regulatory standards, and effectively documenting experimental results. Building strong communication skills and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues can help ease the transition. Additionally, being proactive in asking questions and participating in training sessions will enhance your technical proficiency and confidence in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Preclinical Research vs Entry Level Laboratory Technician?

AspectEntry Level Preclinical ResearchEntry Level Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Life Sciences or related field; some roles may require lab experienceBachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related field; certification not always required
Work EnvironmentResearch labs focused on drug development, animal studies, or biomedical researchClinical or diagnostic labs, hospital labs, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutionsHospitals, diagnostic labs, biotech companies

Entry Level Preclinical Research and Entry Level Laboratory Technician roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work in laboratory settings. However, preclinical research focuses more on drug testing and animal studies, while laboratory technicians typically handle sample processing and diagnostic testing. Both roles serve vital functions in scientific and medical industries, with overlapping skills but different specific responsibilities.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Preclinical Research jobs?

The most popular types of Preclinical Research jobs are:

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Entry Level Preclinical Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Preclinical Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,474 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Laboratory Technicians

University of Utah

Campus, IL

$10 - $22/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

388th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Details
Open Date 08/10/2026 Requisition Number PRN45877B Job Title Laboratory Technicians Working Title Lab Technician Career Progression Track S00 Track Level S1 - Entry Level Support, S3 - Skilled, S2 - Intermediate FLSA Code Nonexempt Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary VP Area President Department 01354 - HCI Preclinical Cancer Models Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $10 - $22 Close Date 11/10/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
The Preclinical Cancer Models Shared Resource (PCM) provides high-quality services to support basic, translational, and preclinical cancer research at Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah. PCM supports investigators through expertise in patient-derived xenografts, cell-line xenografts, genetically engineered mouse models, patient-derived organoids, in vivo therapeutic studies, biospecimen processing, tumor monitoring, imaging, tissue collection, tissue banking, and study execution.
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Lab Technician to support PCM's preclinical research operations. The successful candidate will participate in animal-based studies, cell line culture, patient-derived organoid workflows, tissue collection and processing, laboratory maintenance, sample tracking, and data collection. This position prefers strong organizational skills, careful attention to sterile technique and protocol compliance, and the ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
The ideal candidate will be technically capable, dependable, team-oriented, and motivated to contribute to a collaborative shared resource environment that supports high-quality preclinical cancer research.
Huntsman Cancer Institute is committed to cancer prevention, care, and survivorship for all communities within the area we serve - which includes Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming - with impact worldwide.
In your cover letter or during your interview process, we invite you to share how your professional experiences have prepared you to serve as a member of our team as we work to reduce the cancer burden experienced by all people and communities. This may include a description of your prior experiences related to research, prevention, clinical care, community engagement/outreach, training, administration, or other areas relevant to Huntsman Cancer Institute's mission and this position.
Responsibilities
Work Environment and Team Culture
PCM operates as a collaborative shared resource that supports investigators across Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah. The successful candidate will join a team-oriented environment where reliability, communication, attention to detail, accountability, and respect for colleagues, investigators, animals, and research materials are essential.
This position prefers a candidate who can work well with others, respond constructively to feedback, follow established procedures, and contribute to a professional and supportive laboratory culture. Because PCM supports multiple projects and investigators, the technician must be organized, adaptable, and able to balance routine responsibilities with changing study needs.
We value team members who are dependable, curious, willing to learn, committed to high-quality work, and comfortable asking questions when clarification is needed. The ideal candidate will take pride in careful execution, accurate documentation, humane animal care, and the overall success of the shared resource.
Job Responsibilities
The Lab Technician will assist with a variety of preclinical cancer research activities, including:
Animal study support
  • Perform routine animal husbandry, monitoring, and study support activities.
  • Assist with tumor measurements, study monitoring, and data recording.
  • Carry out small animal handling and procedures, which may include injections, bleeds, dissections, and tissue harvesting.
  • Support therapeutic studies, tumor model development, and endpoint tissue collection.
  • Follow approved animal protocols, institutional policies, IACUC requirements, and PCM standard operating procedures.
  • Maintain proper respect for and humane care and handling of research animals.
Cell line and patient-derived organoid support
  • Perform routine culture and maintenance of established cancer cell lines.
  • Support culture, passaging, expansion, cryopreservation, and recovery of patient-derived organoids.
  • Maintain sterile technique and follow established procedures for biospecimen handling, media preparation, and contamination prevention.
  • Monitor cultures for growth characteristics, morphology, viability, and evidence of contamination.
  • Prepare and aliquot culture media, supplements, extracellular matrix components, and other reagents used for cell line and organoid workflows.
  • Maintain accurate records of passage number, culture conditions, cryostorage location, sample identifiers, and experimental use.
Tissue processing, banking, and laboratory support
  • Assist with processing fresh human or mouse tissues for culture, banking, molecular analysis, or downstream experimental applications.
  • Support tissue collection, sample labeling, cryopreservation, and inventory tracking.
  • Prepare reagents, media, chemicals, and solutions.
  • Maintain laboratory supplies, equipment, and work areas.
  • Clean and maintain tissue culture and laboratory spaces.
  • Assist with biosafety, laboratory safety, and compliance documentation.
Data and documentation
  • Maintain accurate study records, laboratory notebooks, and sample tracking information.
  • Compile and organize experimental data.
  • Assist with preparation of reports, summaries, and presentations.
  • Communicate effectively with PCM staff, investigators, and other research personnel.

Approximate Effort Distribution
The expected distribution of effort may be adjusted based on project needs and the skills of the selected candidate.
Animal procedures, monitoring, and study support | 45 to 50%
Cell line and patient-derived organoid culture | 15 to 20%
Tissue processing, banking, and biospecimen handling | 10 to 15%
Molecular biology / assay support | 5 to 10%
Lab maintenance, inventory, and compliance documentation | 10%
Data entry, analysis support, and reporting | 5%
Compensation, Benefits, and Professional Development
The University of Utah offers a comprehensive benefits package. This position provides an opportunity to gain experience in preclinical cancer research, animal models, biospecimen processing, cell culture-based workflows, and shared resource operations within a collaborative academic research environment.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency That May Be Required
This position may involve the following work environments and exposures:
Frequency | Work Environment / Exposure
Often | Office, laboratory, tissue culture, and animal facility environments.
Nearly continuously | Exposure to research animals.
Occasionally | Exposure to infectious agents, human tissues, animal tissues, biospecimens, chemical disinfectants, anesthetic agents, sharps, dry ice, or liquid nitrogen, as applicable.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency That May Be Required
This position may require the following physical activities:
Frequency | Physical Requirement
Nearly continuously | Hearing, listening, talking, repetitive hand motion, fine manual manipulation, walking, standing, and sitting.
Often | Handling animals, pipetting, labeling samples, using small instruments, visual observation, bending, reaching overhead, and lifting less than 5 kg.
Occasionally | Kneeling, crouching, stooping, pushing, pulling, carrying supplies or equipment, working in biosafety cabinets or animal procedure areas, and working with cold storage systems.
Closing Statement
The ideal candidate will be a motivated, reliable, and detail-oriented laboratory technician with an interest in preclinical cancer research, mouse models, xenografting, biospecimen processing, cell culture-based workflows, and collaborative shared resource operations.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Laboratory Technician, I: Requires little to no related experience.

Laboratory Technician, II: Requires at least 1 year of related experience.

Laboratory Technician, III: Requires 3+ years of related experience.

Preferences
  • A B.S. or higher degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, animal science, cancer biology, or a related field.
  • Prior laboratory research experience.
  • Experience with mouse handling, animal husbandry, or in vivo research procedures.
  • Experience with mammalian cell culture, including sterile technique, passaging, cryopreservation, and culture monitoring.
  • Experience with patient-derived organoids, 3D culture systems, extracellular matrix-based culture, or primary tissue-derived models.
  • Familiarity with biospecimen processing, tissue dissociation, sample tracking, tissue banking, or cryostorage workflows.
  • Basic computer skills and experience with data entry, sample tracking, or study documentation.
  • Ability to follow detailed protocols and maintain accurate records.
  • Demonstrated reliability, professionalism, and accountability in a laboratory or team-based work environment.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with supervisors, colleagues, investigators, and research staff.
  • Willingness to learn new techniques and accept constructive feedback.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality, reproducible work.
  • Ability to contribute to a respectful, collaborative, and service-oriented team culture.
  • Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques, laboratory equipment, terminology, materials, and safe laboratory practices.
  • Strong communication skills, attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work effectively with others.
  • OSHA training, biosafety training, and certification in animal care and use, or willingness to complete required training.

Some weekend or holiday work may be needed to support animal care, active studies, or time-sensitive cell culture and organoid workflows.
This position involves proper respect for and humane care and handling of research animals in accordance with institutional requirements, approved protocols, IACUC standards, biosafety requirements, and PCM procedures.

Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it ...

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About University of Utah

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

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