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Preclinical Rodent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scientist II - In Vivo

Ridgefield, CT · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

... support preclinical research in cardio-renal and metabolic diseases. This role involves ... Develop and validate rodent models for cardio-renal and metabolic diseases * Perform dosing ...

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Preclinical Rodent information

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$12

$20

$28

How much do preclinical rodent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for preclinical rodent in the United States is $20.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Preclinical Rodent vs Laboratory Animal Technician?

AspectPreclinical RodentLaboratory Animal Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology or related field, sometimes certifications in lab animal careUsually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training or certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentResearch labs focused on drug development and biomedical studiesAnimal care facilities, maintaining and monitoring laboratory animals
Employer & IndustryPharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutionsResearch institutions, universities, animal research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonPreclinical Rodent vs Laboratory Animal Technician

The main difference is that Preclinical Rodents are involved in research and testing using rodents, often requiring scientific training, while Laboratory Animal Technicians focus on caring for and maintaining laboratory animals in research settings. Both roles are essential in biomedical research but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Preclinical Rodent Research Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Preclinical Rodent Research Technician, you need a solid background in animal science or biology, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as ALAT (Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician). Familiarity with laboratory protocols, animal handling techniques, and data collection software is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help ensure effective teamwork and accurate experimental results. These competencies are crucial for maintaining animal welfare, ensuring research validity, and supporting scientific discovery.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in preclinical rodent research?

Professionals in preclinical rodent research often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to ethical guidelines and animal welfare regulations, ensuring experimental reproducibility, and managing variations in animal behavior or health that can affect study outcomes. Additionally, the role requires meticulous attention to detail in handling rodents, collecting data, and documenting results. Effective collaboration with veterinarians, scientists, and regulatory personnel is essential for successful project execution and compliance.

What are preclinical rodent studies?

Preclinical rodent studies involve the use of mice or rats to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and biological effects of new drugs or treatments before they are tested in humans. These studies are a critical step in the drug development process, providing important data on toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and potential therapeutic benefits. Rodents are commonly chosen because their genetics and biology are well-understood and can often model human diseases. The results help determine whether a drug can advance to clinical trials in humans.
Infographic showing various Preclinical Rodent job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,957 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Laboratory Animal Veterinarian

RPM ReSearch

Indianapolis, IN

$150K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Clinical Veterinarian – Opportunity in Laboratory Animal Medicine

Location: Indianapolis, IN ( Advanced Rodent Surgical Research Facilities)

Travel: Required to other Indiana sites; optional out-of-state travel opportunities


Are you a companion animal veterinarian or an early-career laboratory animal vet seeking a meaningful, mission-driven role? At our  Indianapolis research hubs, you’ll join a passionate team working at the intersection of animal care and scientific advancement.


Our two advanced rodent surgical units in Indianapolis are integral to our nationwide network. These state-of-the-art facilities specialize in surgically modified rodent models that support cutting-edge biomedical research. As a Clinical Veterinarian, you’ll play a critical role in upholding our high standards of animal care, ensuring regulatory compliance, and guiding research that shapes the future of human and animal health.

This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to transition into or grow within laboratory animal medicine while working with expert teams and contributing to research that matters.


 What You’ll Do:


  • Deliver high-quality veterinary care for rodent colonies in specialized surgical environments.
  • Support the welfare and biosecurity of animals used in preclinical research, including during post-op recovery and life-cycle monitoring.
  • Train and mentor technicians and animal care staff in clinical care, anesthesia, and humane handling.
  • Collaborate across departments to support the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) and foster a "Culture of Care."
  • Liaise with the IACUC, Attending Veterinarian, and Institutional Officials to ensure compliance and proactive animal health reporting.
  • Provide emergency veterinary care (after-hours/weekend/holiday) on a rotating schedule.
  • Contribute veterinary oversight to new surgical model development and provide guidance on best practices in perioperative care.
  • Participate in internal audits, AAALAC site visits, and regulatory inspections.
  • Offer veterinary support and guidance on animal procurement, transportation, nutrition, behavior, and environmental enrichment.
  • Travel to other our sites across Indiana with occasional out-of-state opportunities.


???? What You Bring:

  • DVM or equivalent degree; eligibility for Indiana veterinary licensure, DEA registration, and USDA Category 2 Accreditation.
  • Experience in clinical veterinary care (companion animal, lab animal, or mixed practice welcome).
  • Curiosity and passion for laboratory animal medicine, animal ethics, welfare science, or health monitoring.
  • Ability to effectively communicate across interdisciplinary teams and regulatory bodies.
  • Detail-oriented approach to clinical documentation, compliance, and care protocols.
  • Strong organizational skills, with a collaborative and proactive mindset.


???? Preferred (but not required):


  • Experience in rodent surgery, anesthesia, or animal production.
  • Participation in regulatory or accreditation audits.
  • Prior teaching or mentorship experience in a veterinary or technical setting.
  • ACLAM board eligibility or certification (We support career progression and board preparation).


Why Join Us?


Our Indianapolis surgical research facilities are more than just labs—they're hubs of scientific excellence, technical innovation, and compassionate care. From developing complex rodent surgical models to providing top-tier animal care, you’ll be contributing directly to preclinical research that impacts real-world therapies. Our organization values its people, and we are committed to helping veterinarians grow through education, mentorship, and career development opportunities.


Whether you’re entering lab animal medicine or advancing your clinical career in a new direction, we’ll help you build a future that supports science, animal welfare, and personal growth.


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