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Preclinical Research Associate Jobs in Tennessee

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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 Tennessee?

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

What are popular job titles related to Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Tennessee?

For Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Tennessee are:

Preclinical Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Preclinical Research Associate job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 20% As Needed, 18% Full Time, and 58% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Surgery

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 1,065 rated hospitals

Job description

The Yang Lab in Department of Surgery at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our translational research team.
The research focuses on understanding the novel functions of fusion transcriptional factors in rhabdomyosarcoma. This work is highly mechanistic and translational, leveraging cutting-edge genetic, epigenetic, cellular and pharmacologic tools to inform better therapies using human and genetic models.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and conduct experiments investigating the mechanism of chimeric transcriptional factors in regulating gene transcription.
  • Evaluate preclinical efficacy of immunomodulators and the underlying mechanism.
  • Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team including cancer biologists and clinicians.
  • Present findings at national and international meetings and contribute to manuscript preparation and grant proposals.

Qualifications
  • A Ph.D. (or nearing completion) in molecular biology, cancer biology, biochemistry, developmental biology, immunology, or related fields.
  • Experience with mouse models, genome editing is a plus.
  • Excellent communication skills, critical thinking, and a collaborative mindset.
  • A strong publication record demonstrating scientific rigor and productivity.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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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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