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Preclinical Research Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

... engineers, and medical physics assistants. You will be central to project management, clinical ... Access to ample preclinical/clinical research imaging and therapeutic systems are available ...

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Preclinical Research Engineer information

What is a preclinical research engineer?

Preclinical research engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or other health-related products in the preclinical stage before they are used in human trials. They work with scientists and medical experts to ensure products meet safety and regulatory standards by conducting laboratory research, animal studies, and data analysis. Their work is crucial in identifying potential issues early and ensuring that only the safest and most effective products move forward to clinical trials.

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

To thrive as a Preclinical Research Engineer, you need a solid background in biomedical engineering, biology, or a related field, along with experience in experimental design and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, imaging systems, Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards, and relevant software such as MATLAB or statistical tools is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective collaboration skills help set exceptional candidates apart. These competencies are vital for ensuring high-quality research outcomes, regulatory compliance, and successful cross-disciplinary teamwork in the preclinical development process.

What are some common challenges faced by preclinical research engineers when transitioning new devices from concept to animal studies?

Preclinical Research Engineers often encounter challenges related to regulatory compliance, experimental design, and cross-functional collaboration when moving new devices from the conceptual phase to animal testing. Ensuring that prototypes meet safety and ethical standards while generating reliable, reproducible data can be complex and requires meticulous planning. Additionally, close coordination with biologists, veterinarians, and regulatory experts is essential to address issues such as animal welfare, data integrity, and timely project milestones. Being proactive in communication and documentation helps navigate these challenges and supports successful project advancement.

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

AspectPreclinical Research EngineerLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Biomedical, Biological, or related fields; some roles may require certifications in lab techniquesAssociate's or Bachelor's degree; technical training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, often involved in experimental design and data analysisLaboratories performing routine testing, sample preparation, and data recording
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in biotech, pharmaceutical, and research institutions focusing on preclinical studiesCommon in hospitals, research labs, and manufacturing settings for routine lab work

Preclinical Research Engineers focus on designing and conducting experiments to evaluate new drugs or therapies before clinical trials, requiring advanced education and analytical skills. Laboratory Technicians perform routine lab tasks, supporting research activities with less emphasis on experimental design. Both roles are essential in the research process but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Preclinical Research Engineer jobs in Wisconsin?

For Preclinical Research Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Preclinical Research Engineer jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Preclinical Research Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Preclinical Research Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Research Specialist

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

The Organization

As an independent research organization, the Morgridge Institute for Research explores uncharted scientific territory to discover tomorrow's cures. In affiliation with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, we support researchers who take a fearless approach to advancing human health in emerging fields such as regenerative biology, metabolism, virology and medical engineering. Through public programming, we work to inspire scientific curiosity in everyday life.


Job Purpose

The Morgridge Institute for Research seeks an assistant research specialist to support research projects of the Spurgeon Lab within the Virology research focus area. The Spurgeon Lab seeks to understand the mechanisms by which small DNA tumor viruses interact with host cells in ways that lead to human cancer through the development and application of specialized tissue culture models and preclinical animal models. The Assistant Research Specialist will be responsible for assisting with studies involving, but not limited to, cell culture, molecular biology assays, xenografts, drug treatments, and tissue analysis. The Assistant Research Specialist will also assist with other studies in support of ongoing and new experiments. These tasks must be performed while adhering to all biosafety regulations and guidelines.ย 


Primary Responsibilities

  • Assist in new and ongoing cell culture-based assays (iPOND, organotypic rafts, etc)
  • Operate laboratory equipment required for specific assays
  • Prepare chemicals, reagents, and solutions for general laboratory use
  • Assist with animal procedures (xenografts, drug treatments, tissue analysis)
  • Compiling, analyzing, and documenting results from experimental data, and drawing conclusions from experimental results
  • Maintain detailed and organized records of experimental design, variables, and results in an electronic lab notebook
  • Clearly communicate research progress results to principal investigator and lab members
  • Review laboratory methods manuals, scientific journals, abstracts, and other literature for information applicable to research experiments
  • Keep up to date with biosafety and necessary research animal trainingย 
  • Perform additional responsibilities as directed by the principal investigator


Requirements

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, the candidate must be able to perform each primary duty satisfactorily. The ideal candidate will strive to perform each task exceptionally. ย The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary duties.


Education and Experience

  • Minimum bachelor's degree in virology, molecular biology, or a related discipline
  • Exposure to laboratory research, molecular biology techniques, data analysis, and training in mammalian tissue culture is required


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Strong background in biology and/or cancer biology
  • Ability to plan, perform and interpret reproducible experiments
  • Must have the ability to work both independently and as part of a dynamic research team
  • Strong written and oral communication skills are essential
  • Must have strong organizational skills and attention to detail


Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Work is normally performed in a wet laboratory environment
  • Standing for long periods of time is required
  • Limited physical effort is required
  • No or very limited exposure to physical risk
  • Occasional evening and weekend workย