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Preclinical Research Associate Jobs in Reston, VA

Pharmaron

Software Validation Associate

Germantown, MD · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

... global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping pharma and biotech companies bring new ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

Pharmaron

Software Validation Associate

Germantown, MD · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

... global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping pharma and biotech companies bring new ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

Pharmaron

Software Validation Associate

Germantown, MD · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

... global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping pharma and biotech companies bring new ... drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic ...

Howard University

Assistant Professor

Washington, DC · On-site

... or associate position with research expertise and teaching interests in advancing mathematics ... both preclinical and clinical applications. • Coordinate research collaborations between the ...

Howard

Assistant Professor

Washington, DC

... or associate position with research expertise and teaching interests in advancing mathematics ... preclinical and clinical applications. Coordinate research collaborations between the imaging ...

N4 Solutions

Management Analyst

Bethesda, MD

... and associates to help our customers evaluate, collaborate, innovate, and create business ... Develop periodic and ad hoc reports by researching records, files, background materials, and ...

Pharmaron

Lab Instrument Service Specialist

Germantown, MD · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... global CRO (Contract Research Organization) helping pharma and biotech companies bring new ... Associate degree (60+ credit hours) with 2+ years of relevant experience OR Bachelor of Science in ...

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How much do preclinical research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for preclinical research associate in Reston, VA is $33.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.26 and $38.51 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 job categories do people searching Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Preclinical Research Associate jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Preclinical Research Associate jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Preclinical Research Associate job openings:
Preclinical Research Associate jobs near you
Research Associate II, Enhanced Lung

Research Associate II, Enhanced Lung

United Therapeutics Corporation

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

$68.50K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

California, US residents click here.
The job details are as follows:
Who We Are
We are the first publicly-traded biotech or pharmaceutical company to take the form of a public benefit corporation. Our public benefit purpose is to provide a brighter future for patients through the development of novel pharmaceutical therapies; and technologies that expand the availability of transplantable organs.
United Therapeutics (Nasdaq: UTHR) seeks to travel down the corridors of indifference to develop treatments for rare, deadly diseases. We were founded in 1996 by a family seeking a cure for their daughter's pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Today, we have six FDA-approved therapies that treat PAH, pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) and neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer. Our near-term pipeline seeks to develop additional therapies for PAH and pulmonary fibrosis (PF).
The cure for end-stage life-threatening diseases like PAH, PH-ILD, PF, and many others is an organ transplant, but only a small percentage of donated organs are available to address the vast need. For this reason, we are working to create manufactured organs to address the shortage of kidneys, hearts, lungs, and livers available for transplant. We believe an unlimited supply of tolerable, transplantable organs will eliminate the transplant waiting list and cure end-stage organ diseases for which transplant is not currently an option.
The Enhanced Lung Program focuses on developing novel technologies to enhance donor lung performance and improve transplant outcomes. Our scientists work at the intersection of organ perfusion, gene therapy, and bioengineering to modify and optimize lungs outside the body prior to transplantation.
Who You Are
This is where strong fundamentals turn into real impact. As a Research Associate II on our Enhanced Lung team, you'll be hands-on supporting gene modification studies that push engineered lungs closer to clinical reality. You'll work directly with lung tissue, EVLP systems, and core molecular assays-contributing data that matters and learning how translational science actually happens. This role is ideal for someone who's eager to grow, takes pride in doing things the right way, and wants their daily lab work to connect to something bigger. If you're motivated by purpose, curious by nature, and excited to build your career at the bench on meaningful science, you'll feel right at home here.
The Research Associate II will provide hands-on laboratory support for gene modification studies in lung tissue and EVLP systems. This individual will help execute EVLP, molecular assays, support vector preparation and characterization, and assist with preclinical studies.
  • Assist with lung tissue processing and ex vivo perfusion experiments
  • Perform routine molecular and cell biology assays
  • Support analytical assay development and validation
  • Contribute to data analysis and presentation
  • Perform ELISA assays and other cell-based assays
  • Make technical or scientific observations in-process, with some oversight or consultation with manager or other scientists
  • Record all laboratory data in the in-house data management system(s)
  • Prepare human and non-human organs, tissues, and cells for experimentation
  • Follow prescribed laboratory methods and protocols
  • All other duties as required

Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or related field
  • 2+ years of related pharma/biotech industry experience
  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Tissue handling and dissection
  • Highly self-motivated
  • Aseptic technique
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or related field
  • Experience with viral vectors, cell culture, or gene editing tools (CRISPR, siRNA, mRNA)
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team
  • The ability to work independently
  • Ability to work a flexible work week; inclusive of evenings and/or weekends

The salary range for this position is $68,500- $95,000 per year and reflects our good-faith estimate of the compensation for this role at the time of posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and business needs, as well as other factors permitted by law at the time of posting. This range may be modified in the future based on company and market factors.
Job Location
This role is based at our Silver Spring, MD location.
Eligible employees may participate in the Company's comprehensive benefits suite of programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, savings plans (401k and ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, disability benefits, and more. For additional information on Company benefits, please visit https://www.unither.com/careers/benefits-and-amenities
United Therapeutics Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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