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Phd In Biotechnology Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We support the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industries with our proven, scientific ... in Biostatistics, Statistics, or Mathematics discipline or related field, masters or PhD preferred ...

Phd In Biotechnology information

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$14

$26

$35

How much do phd in biotechnology jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd in biotechnology in Tennessee is $26.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $29.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in Biotechnology?

A PhD in Biotechnology is a doctoral-level degree focused on advanced research in the application of biological systems and organisms to develop products and processes for various industries. Students in this program engage in original research, often in areas like genetics, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental biotechnology. The program typically involves coursework, laboratory work, and the completion of a dissertation. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, biotechnology companies, and regulatory agencies. Earning a PhD in this field demonstrates expertise and the ability to contribute to scientific innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in Biotechnology?

To thrive as a PhD in Biotechnology, you need advanced knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and bioengineering, supported by a doctoral degree in biotechnology or a related field. Proficiency with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and research methodologies, as well as familiarity with tools like CRISPR and next-generation sequencing, is essential. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you lead research projects and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring research quality, and translating findings into real-world applications.

What types of career advancement opportunities can I expect after completing a PhD in Biotechnology?

After earning a PhD in Biotechnology, you can pursue various advancement paths depending on your interests and expertise. Many graduates transition into senior research roles in academia or industry, often leading research teams or projects. Others move into specialized areas such as regulatory affairs, intellectual property, or business development within biotech companies. Teaching positions at universities or roles in government agencies and policy organizations are also common. Networking, publishing research, and gaining experience in interdisciplinary projects can further enhance your advancement prospects.

What is the difference between Phd In Biotechnology vs Biotech Research Scientist?

AspectPhd In BiotechnologyBiotech Research Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Biotechnology or related fieldTypically a Master's or PhD in Biotechnology or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or industry R&D labsIndustry laboratories, biotech companies, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsBiotech and pharmaceutical companies, research organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic vs industry roles in biotechCareer paths and qualifications in biotech research

While a Phd In Biotechnology is a research-focused degree preparing individuals for academic or advanced industry roles, a Biotech Research Scientist is a professional role within biotech companies or labs. Both require strong research skills, but the PhD emphasizes academic research, whereas the Research Scientist applies those skills in industry settings.

Is a PhD in biotechnology worth it?

A PhD in biotechnology can lead to advanced research, development, and academic roles, often requiring strong laboratory skills and knowledge of molecular biology and bioinformatics. While it offers opportunities in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and biotech industries, it typically involves several years of study and research investment, with career advancement depending on experience and specialization.

What jobs can you get with a PhD in biotechnology?

A PhD in biotechnology qualifies individuals for roles such as research scientist, bioprocess engineer, or biotech project manager. These positions often involve laboratory work, data analysis, and product development in industries like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and healthcare, requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of laboratory techniques and regulatory standards.

Which field of biotechnology is best for a PhD in biotechnology?

For a PhD in biotechnology, the best field depends on career goals, but areas like biomedical, agricultural, and environmental biotechnology are highly in demand. Specializing in molecular biology, genetic engineering, or bioinformatics can enhance job prospects, especially when combined with relevant laboratory skills and certifications.
Infographic showing various Phd In Biotechnology job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,587 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Senior Bioinformatics Research Scientist / Bioinformatics Research Scientist Neurobiology and Brain

Memphis, TN • On-site


St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 1,064 rated hospitals

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Senior Bioinformatics Research Scientist performs data analysis, data visualization, statistical analysis, experimental design, database development, mathematical modeling, and novel method development. Provides bioinformatics analysis for investigators and communicates analytical process and results.
The Senior Bioinformatics Research Scientist is responsible for designing, developing, improving, modifying, and operating data analysis pipelines. Manages projects and coordinates other efforts related to analysis and infrastructure as directed.
The Neurobiology and Brain Tumor Program (NBTP) is seeking a highly motivated Bioinformatics Research Scientist. The NBTP is a collaborative translational research program with a mission to improve survival and morbidity for children with brain tumors. Through application of cutting-edge molecular approaches to unique and data-rich cohorts, members of this program are efficiently translating laboratory findings into clinical practice and treatment innovations.
The successful candidate will contribute to discovery-driven computational studies of unprecedented multi-'omics datasets obtained from children with malignant brain cancer. Through application of machine learning and integration of large multi-modal datasets, including bulk, single-cell, and spatial profiles, we aim to make novel insights with real-world clinical implications.
The candidate will work closely with other bioinformatics personnel within the NBTP to play an integral role in exciting collaborations, both within St. Jude and with prominent external collaborators. A deep understanding of cancer genomics, human genetics, transcriptomics, or epigenetics, strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, critical thinking, and expertise in NGS data analysis are essential for this position. The successful recruit must have the capacity to execute proficient computational analyses and troubleshoot independently, communicate effectively with the PI and collaborators across diverse disciplines, and thrive in a highly collaborative team environment.
The ideal candidate should have:
  • A PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, and/or data science.
  • Analyzed date using some the following platforms: long read sequencing, RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq/CUT&RUN, Hi-C, DNA methylation, single-cell/nucleus RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, and quantitative proteomics.
  • A strong CV that includes translational publications in the field of cancer genomics, epigenomics, single-cell, and/or spatial 'omics.
  • Experience in analyzing, interpreting, and visualizing human genomics datasets generated by high-throughput sequencing platforms including short- (Illumina) and long-read- (e.g. PacBio and Oxford Nanopore) whole-genome sequencing.Proficiency in relevant programming languages such as R and Python, preferably in a High-Performance Computing (HPC) environment. Exposure to building tools and developing pipelines a plus.
  • Proficiency in tools for ensuring reproducibility of pipelines, such as workflow management systems (e.g., nextflow or snakemake), and version control (e.g., git).
  • Extensive expertise in data integration and harmonization.
  • Proven problem-solving skills and success collaborating with clinical and/or multidisciplinary teams in fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Minimum Education:
  • Master's degree in bioinformatics, statistics/computer science (with a background in biological sciences) or related field with 6+ years of experience post degree.
  • PhD preferred, with 2+ years of experience post degree.

Minimum Experience:
  • Experience Exception: Master's degree with 6+ years of relevant post-degree experience (OR) PhD with 2+ years of relevant post-degree experience.
  • Experience in at least one programming or scripting language and at least one statistical package, with R preferred.

The Bioinformatics Research Scientist is responsible for designing, developing, improving, modifying, and operating data analysis pipelines. Manages projects and coordinates other efforts related to analysis and infrastructure as directed.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Independently perform basic and advanced level statistical analysis, algorithm implementation, programming from a variety of biotechnology platforms, and oversee quality check.
  • Design and prepare materials and courses for training on various bioinformatics software and databases, computing, data mining, and analysis.
  • Act as a liaison between end-users, software developers, system designers, and different departments.
  • Establish protocols or best practices for common research tasks and SOP, evaluate products and solutions to make recommendations, and integrate solutions.
  • Lead the development, implementation, installation, and maintenance of databases; coordinate data collection, database implementation, and usage and any hardware and software related to database collection.
  • Develop programs to assist in the analysis of data within the databases.
  • Assist in planning, coordinating, and organizing projects across departments and delegate tasks based on priority, expertise, and capacity.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and institution.
  • Maintains regular and predictable attendance.

Minimum Education and/or Training:
  • Bachelor's degree in bioinformatics, cheminformatics, statistics/computer science (with a background in biological sciences or chemistry) or related field.
  • Master's degree or PhD preferred.

Minimum Experience:
  • Minimum Requirement: Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of relevant post-degree work in bioinformatics, cheminformatics, statistics/computer science (with a background in biological sciences or chemistry).
  • Experience Exception: Master's degree with 4+ years of relevant post-degree experience (OR) PhD with no experience.
  • Experience in at least one programming or scripting language and at least one statistical package, with R preferred.

Compensation
In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This is an estimate offered in good faith and a specific salary offer takes into account factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the salary range and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $104,000 - $186,160 per year for the role of Senior Bioinformatics Research Scientist / Bioinformatics Research Scientist Neurobiology and Brain Tumor Program (NBTP).
Explore our exceptional benefits!
St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.


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