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Preclinical Research Associate Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

S.) or Associates Degree in Biology or related discipline required. * 0-2 years of experience in ... About Charles River Charles River is an early-stage contract research organization (CRO). We have ...

Preclinical Research Associate information

What is a preclinical research associate?

Preclinical Research Associates are professionals who support scientific studies that evaluate the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medical devices, or treatments before they are tested in humans. They are responsible for conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their work is crucial for identifying potential risks and optimizing study protocols, laying the groundwork for clinical trials. Preclinical Research Associates typically work in pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, or academic research settings, collaborating closely with scientists and regulatory teams.

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

A Preclinical Research Associate needs a solid background in life sciences, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in biology, pharmacology, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), animal handling protocols, and regulatory standards such as GLP is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure accurate experimental results, compliance with research regulations, and effective collaboration within research teams.

What are some common challenges faced by preclinical research associates and how can they be managed?

Preclinical Research Associates often encounter challenges such as managing tight project timelines, adapting to evolving experimental protocols, and ensuring strict adherence to regulatory guidelines. Balancing multiple studies simultaneously can require strong organizational and communication skills, especially when collaborating with cross-functional teams like scientists, veterinarians, and data analysts. Staying proactive in seeking feedback, participating in regular team meetings, and consistently documenting experimental procedures help manage these challenges and ensure high-quality results.

What is the difference between Preclinical Research Associate vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectPreclinical Research AssociateLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in life sciences; some roles may require experience in researchAssociate's degree or relevant certification; entry-level
Work EnvironmentResearch labs in biotech/pharmaceutical companies; clinical trial settingsLaboratories performing routine tests and experiments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in biotech, pharma, and research institutions for drug developmentCommon in clinical labs, hospitals, and research facilities
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding research roles in drug developmentLearning about lab support roles in scientific settings

The Preclinical Research Associate and Laboratory Technician roles both work within laboratory environments, but the associate typically engages in more complex research activities related to drug development, requiring a higher level of education and specialized knowledge. The technician role focuses on routine lab tasks and support functions. Both positions are essential in scientific research, but they differ in responsibilities and career progression.

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

The most popular types of Preclinical Research jobs in Delaware are:

What cities in Delaware are hiring for Preclinical Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Delaware with the most Preclinical Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Preclinical Research Associate job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution.

Molecular Technologist I

Newark, DE • On-site

Charles River Laboratories, Inc.
Scientific Research and Development Services • 10K+ employees

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Charles River Laboratories rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

For 75 years, Charles River employees have worked together to assist in the discovery, development and safe manufacture of new drug therapies. When you join our family, you will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people across the globe. Whether your background is in life sciences, finance, IT, sales or another area, your skills will play an important role in the work we perform. In return, we’ll help you build a career that you can feel passionate about.

Job Overview

We are seeking a Molecular Technologist I for our MALDI Lab located in Newark, DE.

The working hours for this role are Monday - Friday 10:00 am- 6:30 pm.

The Lab-Molecular Technologist will Process customer samples in the microbiology laboratory utilizing the various technology platforms including but not limited to bacterial 16S rDNA and fungal ITS2 sequencing, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and ribotyping. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and GMP compliance.

The following are responsibilities related to the Molecular Technologist I:

• Conduct accurate processing of customer samples in accordance with current SOPs.

• Receive, unpack, log, and subculture customer samples according to current SOPs.

• Aliquot and prepare reagents.

• Perform test streaks for isolation, PCR, sequencing, mass spectrometry of customer samples and other laboratory processes

• Perform continual maintenance, repair and cleaning of all laboratory equipment.

• Operate and maintain laser cutter.

• Provide backup for all laboratory functions when needed.

• Dispose of microbe cultures, chemicals and glass in proper waste containers.

• Collaborate with technical support to resolve discrepancies with customer samples.

• Comply with all aspects of laboratory safety, safety stations, safety manuals, safety SOP, and MSDS sheets.

• Suggest process improvements.

• Perform or support special projects in the lab when needed.

• Perform all other related duties as assigned. 

Qualifications

The following are minimum requirements related to the Molecular Technologist I position:

  • Bachelor’s Degree (B.A. /B.S.) or Associates Degree in Biology or related discipline required.
  • 0-2 years of experience in Laboratory setting (GMP Preferred)
  • Experience with Microbiology Culture Techniques (Understanding in Microbiology Agars, Microbiology Colony Morphology, Mixed Cultures or Mixed samples) is preferred
  • Must have ability to work in a fast paced and team-oriented work/lab environment.
  • Strong Attention to detail is required

The pay for this position is $22/hr. Please note that salaries vary within the range based on factors including, but not limited to, experience, skills, education, and location.

About Microbial Solutions
Our Microbial Solutions business group has a comprehensive portfolio of endotoxin testing, microbial detection and microbial identification products and services is unlike any other, and has been purposefully designed to meet the complex and ever-changing needs of the industry. We help clients to ensure product safety and quality with easy-to-use yet robust testing solutions that satisfy regulatory requirements, support critical decision making and improve operational efficiencies.


About Charles River
Charles River is an early-stage contract research organization (CRO). We have built upon our foundation of laboratory animal medicine and science to develop a diverse portfolio of discovery and safety assessment services, both Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and non-GLP, to support clients from target identification through preclinical development. Charles River also provides a suite of products and services to support our clients’ clinical laboratory testing needs and manufacturing activities. Utilizing this broad portfolio of products and services enables our clients to create a more flexible drug development model, which reduces their costs, enhances their productivity and effectiveness to increase speed to market.

With over 20,000 employees within 110 facilities in 20 countries around the globe, we are strategically positioned to coordinate worldwide resources and apply multidisciplinary perspectives in resolving our client’s unique challenges. Our client base includes global pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, government agencies and hospitals and academic institutions around the world. And in 2019, revenue increased to $2.62 billion.

At Charles River, we are passionate about our role in improving the quality of people’s lives. Our mission, our excellent science and our strong sense of purpose guide us in all that we do, and we approach each day with the knowledge that our work helps to improve the health and well-being of many across the globe. We have proudly supported the development of 80% of the drugs approved by the FDA in the last five years.

We’re committed to providing benefits that elevate your quality of life.  Based on your position these may include:  bonus/incentives based on performance, 401K, paid time off, stock purchase program, Health and wellness coverage, employee and family wellbeing support programs, and work life balance flexibility.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Charles River Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer - all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, veteran or disability status.

It is unlawful in some states (including Massachusetts) to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

If you are interested in applying to Charles River Laboratories and need special assistance or an accommodation due to a disability to complete any forms or to otherwise participate in the resume submission process, please contact a member of our Human Resources team by sending an e-mail message to crrecruitment_US@crl.com. This contact is for accommodation requests for individuals with disabilities only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

For more information, please visit www.criver.com.


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About Charles River

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Charles River is an early-stage contract research organization (CRO). We have built upon our foundation of laboratory animal medicine and science to develop a diverse portfolio of discovery and safety assessment services, both Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and non-GLP, to support clients from target identification through preclinical development. Charles River also provides a suite of products and services to support our clients' clinical laboratory testing needs and manufacturing activities. Utilizing this broad portfolio of products and services enables our clients to create a more flexible drug development model, which reduces their costs, enhances their productivity and effectiveness to increase speed to market. With over 20,000 employees within 110 facilities in 20 countries around the globe, we are strategically positioned to coordinate worldwide resources and apply multidisciplinary perspectives in resolving our client's unique challenges. Our client base includes global pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, government agencies and hospitals and academic institutions around the world. At Charles River, we are passionate about our role in improving the quality of people's lives. Our mission, our excellent science and our strong sense of purpose guide us in all that we do, and we approach each day with the knowledge that our work helps to improve the health and well-being of many across the globe. We have proudly supported the development of 86% of the drugs approved by the FDA in 2021.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Wilmington, MA, US

Year founded

1947