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Preclinical Research Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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How much do preclinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for preclinical research associate in Raleigh, NC is $31.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $35.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Preclinical Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What job categories do people searching Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Preclinical Research Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Preclinical Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Preclinical Research Associate job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,796 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Post-Doc Research Associate

Post-Doc Research Associate

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Vision, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 528 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Department Biomedical Res Imaging Ctr - 426001 Posting Open Date 05/15/2026 Application Deadline 05/21/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar Position Title Post-Doc Research Associate Vacancy ID PDS004863 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work Location Chapel Hill, NC Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Dependent on qualifications Proposed Start Date Estimated Duration of Appointment 12 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.
Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The UNC School of Medicine has a rich tradition of excellence and care. Our mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians, and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education, and research. We strive to promote faculty, staff, and learner development in a diverse, respectful environment where our colleagues demonstrate professionalism, enhance learning, and create personal and professional sustainability. We optimize our partnership with the UNC Health System through close collaboration and commitment to service.
OUR VISION
Our vision is to be the nation's leading public school of medicine. We are ranked 2nd in primary care education among all US schools of medicine and 5th among public peers in NIH research funding. Our Allied Health Department is home to five top-ranked divisions, and we are home to 18 top-ranked clinical and basic science departments in NIH research funding.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education, and research.
Patient Care: We will promote health and provide superb clinical care while maintaining our strong tradition of reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities across North Carolina and beyond.
Education: We will prepare tomorrow's health care professionals and biomedical researchers by facilitating learning within innovative curricula and team-oriented interprofessional education. We will cultivate outstanding teaching and research faculty, and we will recruit outstanding students and trainees from highly diverse backgrounds to create a socially responsible, highly skilled workforce.
Research: We will develop and support a rich array of outstanding health sciences research programs, centers, and resources. We will provide infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration among disciplines throughout and beyond our University to support outstanding research. We will foster programs in the areas of basic, translational, mechanistic, and population research.
Position Summary
A postdoctoral position is available at the Biomedical Research Imaging Center (BRIC), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 
The Imaging Center houses state-of-the-art imaging equipment and provides extensive imaging support, and directs innovative imaging research programs. The Center is home to several core facilities, including Human Imaging core facility, Preclinical Molecular Imaging core facility, Small Animal MRI core facility, Radiochemistry core facility, and Image Analysis core facility. The Preclinical Molecular Imaging (PMI) core facility is equipped with cutting-edge preclinical imaging equipment for PET/CT, SPECT/CT, optical, ultrasound, and high-resolution CT imaging in small animal models. The PMI core provides comprehensive imaging services to over 70 investigators from UNC, regional institutions, and industrial collaborators. 
The main responsibility of the position is to conduct research activities in the imaging center under the guidance of a faculty mentor in preparation for a full-time academic or research career. Successful candidate will join the preclinical imaging team to develop new imaging protocols and image analysis approaches, and develop new theranostic tools in the field of molecular imaging and radiation research. Some primary duties include: 1) Image acquisition using PET/CT, MRI, and optical imaging in animal models of neurological and oncological diseases; 2) Develop image analysis strategies and conduct image analysis for imaging projects; 3) Evaluate new theranostic compounds in terms of biodistribution, imaging capability, therapeutic efficacy, and tissue toxicity. 4) Conduct radiation studies to develop new cancer treatment approaches. The postdoctoral appointee is expected to drive efforts to publish results in peer reviewed journals and conferences.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Ph.D. degree (or equivalent doctorate degree) in biomedical engineering, biology, physiology, pharmaceutical science, or related disciplines. 
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Experience with health sciences research, biomedical engineering, pharmaceutical research, or related field.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Research experience on animal models, image analysis, and radiobiology is a plus. 
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/318981
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Nathan Breito Department Contact Telephone or Email nathan_breito@med.unc.edu Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.
Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789