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Principal Research Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Principal Research Associate information

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$14

$29

$42

How much do principal research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for principal research associate in Tennessee is $29.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.80 and $33.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal research associate?

A Principal Research Associate is a senior-level research professional who leads and manages scientific research projects within an organization, often in academia, biotechnology, or pharmaceuticals. They are responsible for designing experiments, analyzing data, supervising junior staff, and ensuring that the research meets regulatory and quality standards. Principal Research Associates often collaborate with cross-functional teams, contribute to publications, and may be involved in grant writing or project proposals. This role requires significant experience in the field, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of research methodologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Research Associate, you typically need an advanced degree in a scientific discipline, strong expertise in experimental design, and significant hands-on laboratory experience. Proficiency with specialized lab equipment, data analysis software (such as GraphPad Prism or FlowJo), and familiarity with regulatory standards like GLP or GMP are often required. Outstanding analytical thinking, attention to detail, and leadership abilities help you excel in managing projects and mentoring junior staff. These skills and qualifications are crucial for generating reliable research results, ensuring compliance, and driving scientific innovation within the organization.

How does a principal research associate typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a research setting?

As a Principal Research Associate, you will frequently work alongside scientists, project managers, and other research professionals to advance complex studies. Collaboration often involves coordinating experimental design, sharing data, and troubleshooting protocols with team members from different specialties, such as analytical chemistry, biology, or clinical operations. Clear communication and the ability to translate technical findings for non-specialist colleagues are key. This collaborative environment not only accelerates project milestones but also provides opportunities to learn from diverse experts and contribute to multidisciplinary solutions.

What is the difference between Principal Research Associate vs Senior Research Associate?

AspectPrincipal Research AssociateSenior Research Associate
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD, relevant research experienceMaster's degree, significant research experience
Work EnvironmentLead research projects, mentor junior staffConduct research, support project goals
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, biotech, academiaSimilar industries, often overlapping roles

The Principal Research Associate typically holds a higher level of responsibility, leading projects and mentoring others, whereas the Senior Research Associate focuses on executing research tasks and supporting project objectives. Both roles require advanced degrees and research experience, but the Principal Research Associate is more involved in strategic planning and leadership within research teams.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Principal Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Principal Research Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Principal Research Associate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,432 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Institutional Review Board Assistant (8a-5p) Research Institute - Kingsport, TN

Ballad Health

Kingsport, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Ballad Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 229 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

606th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Description:
Summary:
The Institutional Review Board Assistant will be responsible for co-managing the daily administrative activities of the Ballad Health Institutional Review Board (IRB) office. The Assistant shall provide consultation and instruction to individuals within the community. This individual will process all submissions to the IRB. This includes new applications, continuing renewals, amendments, SAEs, and other adverse event reports. The Assistant shall review claims of exemptions and expedited reviews as assigned, as well as to ensure all submissions meet the federal and state guidelines, as well as Ballad Health policies. The Assistant will manage protocol review information. The Assistant will designate the type of IRB board review required for each submission. This individual will assign scientifically appropriate submissions to the appropriate IRB board meeting agendas for review and create and maintain board meeting agendas. The Assistant shall maintain meeting minutes, IRB rosters, hard copies, electronic files, and all other required regulatory documents in compliance with federal regulations, institutional policies, and IRB SOPs. Additionally, the Assistant will initiate trials once the Principal Investigator has all IRB approval letters and stamped documentation through written correspondence to investigators of all IRB actions and decisions. The Assistant will manage and process all applications through IRBNet. This individual will answer questions related to submissions, FDA compliance, and general research education submitted by all investigators and research staff. The Assistant shall ensure research staff training and credentials are complete and accurate with each study submission. The Assistant will act as local administrator for IRBNet: maintain the local system and be a resource for local issues and maintain current IRB study files within a 10-year timeframe.
The Assistant will ensure that all Federal regulations are being followed and maintained. The Assistant will be knowledgeable of Code of Federal Regulations, Good Clinical Practice Guidelines, Common Rule, and basic research method. The Assistant shall be responsible for any additional duties as assigned.
Requirements:
Associates Degree preferred. Applicant must have organizational skills, ability to make deadlines,superior communication skills and be service oriented.
Work Requirements:
Shift: Day
On Call: No
Weekends: No
Travel Required: No Travel
Shift Details: 8a-5p
City/State: Kingsport, TN
Location:

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About Ballad Health

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Become a part of the Ballad Health story. Together, we are transforming our region. We're making communities healthier. We're expanding access to critical services in rural areas.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Johnson City, TN, US