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Preclinical Research Associate Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Preclinical Research Associate information

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preclinical Research Associate, and why are they important?

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 are Preclinical Research Associates?

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 most commonly searched types of Preclinical Research jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Preclinical Research jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Indiana? For Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Preclinical Research Associate job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Post Doc Research Associate

Post Doc Research Associate

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Post Doc Research Associate
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
The Kasinski Laboratory at Purdue University is seeking an exceptionally motivated, innovative, and independent Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a highly collaborative research program focused on RNA therapeutics, targeted drug delivery, extracellular vesicle biology, and translational cancer research. Our laboratory is developing next-generation small RNA therapeutics, including chemically modified microRNAs and siRNAs, with the goal of advancing novel cancer treatments toward clinical translation.
The successful candidate will lead independent research projects investigating the design, delivery, mechanism of action, and therapeutic application of RNA-based medicines in cancer. This position offers substantial opportunities for scientific leadership, career development, and direct involvement in translational research efforts spanning fundamental biology, therapeutic development, and commercialization.
The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in molecular biology and in vivo cancer models and have a strong interest in RNA therapeutics and nucleic acid biology. The candidate will be expected to independently develop research directions, design and execute experiments, analyze and interpret data, prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals, contribute to fellowship and grant applications, and actively participate in mentoring junior laboratory members.
Career Development OpportunitiesThe successful candidate will have opportunities to:
  • Lead high-impact translational research projects.
  • Publish in top-tier scientific journals.
  • Participate in the preparation of NIH, DoD, foundation, and industry-sponsored grant applications.
  • Develop skills in therapeutic development, intellectual property, and commercialization through interactions with LigamiR Therapeutics and other translational partners.
  • Receive mentorship tailored toward career advancement in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, or entrepreneurial ventures.

Education
  • Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Genetics, Pharmacology, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field.

Experience
Required Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Genetics, Pharmacology, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field.
  • Strong expertise in molecular and cellular biology techniques, including nucleic acid manipulation, cloning, gene expression analysis, CRISPR-based approaches, protein analysis, and functional cellular assays.
  • Extensive hands-on experience with in vivo mouse studies, including tumor implantation models, therapeutic efficacy studies, tissue collection, and downstream molecular analyses.
  • Demonstrated record of scientific productivity, including first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary research environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with RNA therapeutics, including microRNAs, siRNAs, antisense oligonucleotides, mRNA technologies, or related nucleic acid-based platforms.
  • Familiarity with chemically modified RNAs, oligonucleotide design, RNA chemistry, or RNA structure-function relationships.
  • Experience evaluating therapeutic efficacy, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, or target engagement in preclinical models.
  • Experience with cancer biology, tumor microenvironment studies, extracellular vesicle biology, or translational oncology research.
  • Experience with next-generation sequencing technologies and computational analysis of genomic or transcriptomic datasets.
  • Previous involvement in preparing fellowship applications, grant proposals, or patent disclosures.

Desired Skills and Personal Attributes
  • Highly driven scientist with a strong desire to make impactful discoveries and advance technologies toward clinical application.
  • Demonstrated ability to think creatively, identify important scientific questions, and develop innovative experimental approaches.
  • Strong commitment to scientific rigor, reproducibility, and excellence.
  • Ability to independently drive multiple projects from conception through publication.
  • Interest in pursuing external fellowship funding and contributing to grant development.
  • Excellent organizational, project management, and problem-solving skills.
  • Collaborative team player who contributes positively to laboratory culture and enjoys working with scientists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and a willingness to mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees.
  • Enthusiasm for working at the interface of basic science, translational research, and therapeutic development.

FLSA Status
Exempt

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