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Laboratory Researcher Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Vitalant

Director, HLA Laboratory

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$220K - $270K/yr

... research that advances blood safety worldwide. Work Shift (if applicable): Shift 1 (United States of America) Vitalant is seeking an HLA Laboratory Director to help advance our life-saving mission by ...

City of Hope

Laboratory Supervisor

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

Laboratory Supervisor About City of Hope, City of Hope's mission is to make hope a reality for all ... City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as ...

Arizona State University

Research Technician

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$21.20/hr

Conduct laboratory tests, experiments, and data collection under the direction of the Research Staff Investigator. * Operate and appropriately maintain laboratory equipment and instrumentation ...

University of Arizona

Research Technician II

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Laboratory Activities * Performsstandard laboratory procedures such as maintaining cell cultures ... Collects andcompiles research data. * Completes basiccalculations of test results. * Handles ...

University of Arizona

Research Technician II

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Research Technician II Posting Number req26698 Department Nutritional Sci Wellness - EXT Department ... Performsstandard laboratory procedures such as maintaining cell cultures requiring theuse of ...

Lancesoft INC

Research Associate - Cytology

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Research Associate - Cytology Location: East Innovation Park Drive, Tucson AZ 85755 (Onsite ... The position involves designing and executing laboratory experiments, analyzing and interpreting ...

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All JobsLaboratory Researcher JobsLaboratory Researcher Jobs in Arizona

Laboratory Researcher information

See Arizona salary details

$28K

$105.4K

$153.3K

How much do laboratory researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for laboratory researcher in Arizona is $105,398.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,400.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laboratory researcher?

To thrive as a Laboratory Researcher, you need a solid background in scientific methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and software for data collection and analysis—such as ELN systems or statistical programs—is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set outstanding researchers apart. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, maintain safety standards, and drive meaningful scientific discoveries.

What are some common challenges faced by laboratory researchers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Laboratory researchers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting experimental protocols, managing time-sensitive tasks, and ensuring accuracy in data collection. Balancing multiple projects and adapting to unexpected results can be demanding, but effective organization and open communication with colleagues help address these issues. Collaborating with team members and seeking feedback from supervisors can also provide valuable support when refining experimental methods or interpreting data.

What is the difference between Laboratory Researcher vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectLaboratory ResearcherLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in science or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, pharmaceutical companiesClinical labs, industrial labs, hospitals
Job FocusDesigning experiments, analyzing data, developing new methodsPerforming routine tests, maintaining equipment, preparing samples
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech firms, universitiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants

The main difference between a Laboratory Researcher and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Laboratory Researchers focus on designing experiments and analyzing data, often requiring higher education. Laboratory Technicians perform routine testing and sample preparation, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in scientific and medical labs, but they differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What degree do you need to work in a research lab?

Laboratory researchers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or Ph.D., along with laboratory skills and experience with scientific tools and techniques.

What does a laboratory researcher do?

A laboratory researcher conducts experiments, collects and analyzes data, and documents findings to support scientific studies. They often work with laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and may specialize in fields like biology, chemistry, or medicine to advance knowledge or develop new products.

What are popular job titles related to Laboratory Researcher jobs in Arizona?

For Laboratory Researcher jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Laboratory Researcher jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Laboratory Researcher jobs in Arizona are:

Laboratory Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laboratory Researcher job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,398 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Director, HLA Laboratory

Vitalant

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$220K - $270K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Vitalant rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

701st of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

At Vitalant, the impact you make doing work that is purposeful, meaningful, and worthwhile is vital. As a member of our non-profit organization, you can be impact-inspired to provide vital clinical services to communities nationwide, vital products to those in need of a donor's generosity, or vital scientific research that advances blood safety worldwide.
Work Shift (if applicable):
Shift 1 (United States of America)
Job Description:
Vitalant is seeking an HLA Laboratory Director to help advance our life-saving mission by ensuring the highest standards in histocompatibility testing that supports transplantation and cellular therapy. Based in our operations in Phoenix, AZ, this role partners with other Laboratory Directors and senior Cellular & Molecular Affairs (CMA) leadership to plan, direct, and coordinate the operations and administration of assigned Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) laboratories in accordance with ASHI accreditation standards. The Director provides oversight across all accredited laboratory areas and technologies while promoting quality, innovation, and operational excellence-helping position Vitalant as a leading Center of Transfusion Medicine and Cellular Therapy Excellence.
Compensation: $220,000 - $270,000
Incentive Plan Eligibility
Our comprehensive total rewards support you, your family, and your future with:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K + 5% company match
  • Tuition assistance up to $5k per year
  • Free basic life and AD&D insurance
  • Free short-and-long-term disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Employee Resource Groups
  • Recognition and perks

As the Phoenix HLA Laboratory Director, you'll get to:
  • Direct overall operations and administration of assigned HLA laboratories, ensuring regulatory compliance, quality performance, and competent staffing.
  • Lead clinical, technical, and scientific oversight of histocompatibility, immunogenetics, and molecular testing supporting solid organ and bone marrow transplantation.
  • Support and maintain quality assurance programs; participate in audits, inspections, and quality management activities.
  • Provide 24/7 clinical consultation and oversight for laboratory operations, including virtual crossmatch support for transplant programs.
  • Review and approve laboratory test reports, ensuring accuracy and timely communication of results to physicians and healthcare partners.
  • Guide development, validation, and implementation of new laboratory methodologies, testing services, and process improvements.
  • Collaborate with other laboratory leaders to standardize processes and strengthen operational efficiency across HLA laboratories.
  • Provide scientific and technical consultation to physicians, transplant programs, and internal stakeholders.
  • Build partnerships with external organizations and represent the organization in professional and industry groups.
  • Develop and deliver educational programs for internal teams and external partners.
  • Support budget planning and pursue grant opportunities to advance laboratory research and development.
  • Ensure compliance with HIPAA and data security standards while utilizing laboratory information systems and databases.

Requirements:
Knowledge/ Education
  • Doctoral degree in biological science or licensed physician required.
  • ASHI qualified director required.
  • Knowledge of the grant application process preferred.
  • Knowledge of management principles including human resource management, budget administration, financial analysis and business administration preferred.

Licenses/ Certifications
Appropriate state and board certification (e.g., American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics, American Board of Bioanalysis, etc.) required.
Experience
  • Four years post-graduate experience in immunology or cell biology, two of which were devoted to formal training in human histocompatibility testing in an ASHI accredited laboratory required.
  • Previous experience writing reports for scientific publications in peer reviewed journals preferred.
  • Previous experience supervising junior Directors preferred.

Skills/Abilities
  • Must possess the skills and abilities to successfully perform all assigned duties and responsibilities.
  • Must be able to maintain confidentiality.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrate proficient computer skills.
  • Ability to navigate electronic devices/equipment.
  • Ability to handle conflict and mitigate problems.
  • Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with internal and external customers.
  • Ability to read, write and speak fluent English.
  • Must be able to enter data into the computer.

#ITCORP
Location:
124 W Thomas RoadSuite 210Phoenix, AZ 85013
Job Category:
Lab Services
Contact Information: careers@vitalant.org
If you are impact-inspired to help others, and making a difference is vital for you, you'll experience a career built on purpose, a company created to care, and a team committed to lead - together.

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