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Lab Animal Research Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Vanderbilt University

Research Asst I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... the Dong Lab at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual contributor responsible for evaluating airway medical devices in small- and large-animal models. The Research Assistant will plan ...

Meharry Medical College

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The research assistant will directly assist PI and PI lab and able to work with cell culture, processing clinical specimens and animal studies. This person must have adequate wet lab (ELISA ...

Vanderbilt Health

Animal Care Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... lab animals. Learns the variations among laboratory animals and modes of disease control. • ... Utilizes some discretion and research to solve routine problems. * Breadth of Knowledge: Applies ...

Vanderbilt Health

Animal Care Technician

Nashville, TN

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Provides routine care of research animals. Performs daily checks for animal health and welfare and ... Recognizes and reports clinical abnormalities and/or irregularities in lab animals. Learns the ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Asst 2 - On Site

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

With moderate supervision, you'll contribute to day-to-day research activities including experimental procedures, animal care, data collection, and general lab operations. This position has a strong ...

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Conduct scientific experiments for multiple research projects within the DelGiorno Lab * Read and follow experimental protocols (includes animal handling, assays, husbandry, etc.) * Compile and ...

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Lab Animal Research information

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$7

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$37

How much do lab animal research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for lab animal research in Tennessee is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is lab animal research?

Lab animal research involves the use of animals in scientific experiments to understand biological processes, test the safety and effectiveness of new treatments, and advance medical knowledge. Researchers work with species like mice, rats, and sometimes larger animals under strict ethical guidelines to ensure humane treatment. This field is crucial for biomedical discoveries and the development of new medicines, vaccines, and therapies. Scientists and technicians working in lab animal research are responsible for animal care, conducting experiments, and maintaining accurate records. The work is regulated by laws and overseen by institutional committees to ensure animal welfare.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lab animal researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lab Animal Researcher, you need a background in biological sciences, animal care, and research methodology, typically supported by a relevant degree and animal handling experience. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, animal management software, and certifications like AALAS are commonly required. Attention to detail, ethical judgment, and strong teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These qualifications ensure the welfare of lab animals, compliance with regulations, and the integrity of research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in lab animal research, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in lab animal research often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to ethical standards, managing the health and welfare of animals, and ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. Balancing the demands of research timelines with animal care requirements can also be demanding. These challenges are typically managed through rigorous training, clear communication within research teams, and regular collaboration with veterinarians and compliance officers. Building strong teamwork and staying updated on best practices can help professionals navigate these complexities effectively.

What is the difference between Lab Animal Research vs Laboratory Animal Technician?

AspectLab Animal ResearchLaboratory Animal Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, animal science, or related field; certifications like AALAS ALAT often preferredUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like AALAS ALAT are common
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, laboratories, academic institutionsVeterinary clinics, research labs, animal care facilities
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, universitiesResearch labs, animal care facilities, biotech companies

Lab Animal Research professionals focus on designing and conducting experiments involving animals, often requiring advanced degrees and research certifications. Laboratory Animal Technicians primarily handle daily animal care, ensuring proper housing and health, with less emphasis on research design. Both roles are vital in the animal research industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Lab Animal Research jobs in Tennessee?

For Lab Animal Research jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lab Animal Research jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Lab Animal Research jobs in Tennessee are:

Lab Animal Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lab Animal Research job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,583 per year, or $20 per hour.

Research Asst I

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Position Summary:
The Research Assistant is part of the Mechanical Engineering Department in the Dong Lab at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual contributor responsible for evaluating airway medical devices in small- and large-animal models.
The Research Assistant will plan, coordinate, and execute preclinical studies that assess device performance, usability, safety, and biological response in the airway. Responsibilities include developing test methods and study plans; preparing devices, fixtures, and instrumentation; supporting procedures under approved animal-use protocols and veterinary oversight; acquiring and analyzing physiological, imaging, and device-performance data; maintaining complete study records; and communicating results to the research team. The Assistant will collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, surgeons, research staff, students, and external partners to translate prototypes toward clinically relevant validation.
About the Work Unit:
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University advances research and education in biomedical devices, mechatronics and control, advanced manufacturing, rehabilitation engineering, surgical and soft robotics, nanoscience, and aerospace engineering. The Dong Lab develops innovative medical devices and robotic technologies for challenging clinical applications. This position will support the lab's airway-device program by connecting engineering design with rigorous preclinical evaluation in close partnership with veterinary and clinical collaborators.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
The Research Assistant will perform complex technical and operational duties to ensure safe, reproducible, and well-documented preclinical testing. Responsibilities include:
  • Preclinical Study Planning: translate research objectives into testable endpoints, study plans, acceptance criteria, schedules, equipment lists, and data-collection procedures for small- and large-animal studies.
  • Animal Study Coordination:
    • Coordinate small-animal studies and large-animal studies with veterinary staff, clinical collaborators, core facilities, and the principal investigator.

Support study activities only under current IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, required training, and direction from qualified veterinary or clinical personnel.
  • Prepare procedure rooms, devices, sterile supplies, airway models, imaging systems, sensors, ventilation-related equipment, and emergency backup equipment before each study.
    • Assist with airway-device placement and evaluation, bronchoscopy or other imaging workflows, physiologic monitoring, specimen handling, and post-procedure activities within the individual's training and authorized role.
  • Medical Device Engineering and Testing: design or modify prototypes, fixtures, delivery systems, and instrumentation; develop bench and ex vivo tests that inform animal studies; troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, fluidic, imaging, and software interfaces; and document device configuration and verification results.
  • Data, Quality, and Documentation: acquire synchronized device, imaging, video, and physiological data; maintain traceable study records; analyze results using appropriate statistical and engineering methods; prepare figures, reports, presentations, and protocol materials; and contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, manuscripts, grant reports, and regulatory-facing documentation.

Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the lab faculty member, Dr. Xiaoguang Dong.
Education and Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required; a master's degree is preferred.

Experience and Skills:
  • At least 1 year of work experience is preferred, but not required so long as the list of requirements below can be met.
  • Knowledge of animal-research compliance, IACUC protocols, biosafety, sterile technique, and humane study practices is required or must be acquired through Vanderbilt training before independent work.
  • Ability to develop clear test methods, follow controlled procedures, maintain accurate records, and troubleshoot complex experiments is required.
  • Proficiency with data analysis and technical documentation is required; experience with MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, ImageJ, CAD, or equivalent engineering tools is preferred.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, veterinarians, clinicians, students, and external partners are required.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, critical-thinking, safety-awareness, and problem-solving skills are necessary.
  • Ability to work flexibly around scheduled animal procedures, including occasional early mornings, evenings, or extended study days, is required.
  • Demonstrated experience with medical-device development, experimental engineering, or preclinical research is required; experience with both small- and large-animal studies is strongly preferred.
  • Experience preparing and operating test instrumentation, sensors, imaging systems, data-acquisition hardware, and custom mechanical or mechatronic prototypes is preferred.
  • Experience with airway procedures, bronchoscopy, intubation, ventilation, anesthesia monitoring, or respiratory physiology in a research or clinical environment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience in an academic research, regulated product-development, or quality-managed laboratory setting is preferred.

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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