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Research Assistant Software Developer Jobs in Tennessee

Vanderbilt University

Research Asst I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant is part of the Mechanical Engineering Department in the Dong Lab at ... and software interfaces; and document device configuration and verification results. * Data ...

Mercer University

$24.04/hr

Research Assistant We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Assistant to join our ... software and tools. - Summarize research findings and contribute to the creation of reports ...

Mercer University

$24.04/hr

Research Assistant We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Research Assistant to join our ... software and tools. - Summarize research findings and contribute to the creation of reports ...

nLeague Services Inc

Software Developer

Nashville, TN · On-site

This individual will assist with the development and maintenance of computer program design, coding ... Research and evaluate a variety of software products. * Package and support deployment of releases.

Vanderbilt University

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant will support research, writing, and editing for the Institute. The ideal ... Proficiency in creating visually appealing presentations using software such as PowerPoint * Proven ...

MI Softech

Software Developer

Collierville, TN · On-site

Gathers requirements from pilot customers by combining user research with knowledge of existing ... Carry out deployments to stage, production environments and bringing it to live. * Assist in ...

MI Softech Inc

Software Developer

Collierville, TN

Gathers requirements from pilot customers by combining user research with knowledge of existing ... Carry out deployments to stage, production environments and bringing it to live. * Assist in ...

MI Softech

Software Developer

Collierville, TN

Gathers requirements from pilot customers by combining user research with knowledge of existing ... Carry out deployments to stage, production environments and bringing it to live. * Assist in ...

CGI Inc.

Software Developer - Entry Level

Knoxville, TN · On-site

... research, or personal projects • with software development in languages such as Java, C#, .NET, ... Your message will be routed to the appropriate recruiter who will assist you. Please note, this ...

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Research Assistant Software Developer information

What is a research assistant software developer?

Research Assistant Software Developers are professionals who support research projects by developing, maintaining, and optimizing software tools and applications. They work alongside researchers, helping to design experiments, process data, and create algorithms or simulations necessary for the research. Their role bridges the gap between software engineering and academic research, ensuring that technical solutions meet the specific needs of scientific studies. This position often requires strong programming skills, familiarity with research methodologies, and the ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by research assistant software developers when working on interdisciplinary research projects?

Research Assistant Software Developers often collaborate with researchers from diverse academic backgrounds, which can introduce challenges in communication and aligning technical requirements with research goals. Adapting software solutions to evolving project needs and integrating new methodologies or datasets can require quick learning and flexibility. Balancing rigorous coding standards with rapid prototyping, especially under tight research deadlines, is another frequent challenge. However, this role provides valuable exposure to cutting-edge research and fosters strong problem-solving and teamwork skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research assistant software developer, and why are they important?

A Research Assistant Software Developer should have solid programming skills, a background in computer science or a related field, and experience with software development methodologies. Familiarity with tools like Git, Python or Java, and data analysis libraries, as well as knowledge of research-specific platforms, is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the development of robust research software, facilitate collaboration with research teams, and contribute to the advancement of scientific projects.

What is the difference between Research Assistant Software Developer vs Data Analyst?

AspectResearch Assistant Software DeveloperData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, Software Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Statistics, Data Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, tech companiesBusiness, finance, healthcare, or tech industries
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, tech firmsCorporations, consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Research Assistant Software Developer and a Data Analyst lies in their focus areas. Research Assistant Software Developers primarily work on developing software tools for research purposes, often within academic or research settings. Data Analysts focus on interpreting data to inform business decisions. Both roles require programming skills and analytical thinking, but their end goals and work environments differ.

What are popular job titles related to Research Assistant Software Developer jobs in Tennessee?

For Research Assistant Software Developer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Assistant Software Developer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Assistant Software Developer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Research Assistant Software Developer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Research Assistant Software Developer job openings:

Research Assistant Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Assistant Software Developer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Research Asst I

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Vanderbilt University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Position Summary:
The Research Assistant is part of the Mechanical Engineering Department in the Dong Lab at Vanderbilt University and is a key individual contributor responsible for evaluating airway medical devices in small- and large-animal models.
The Research Assistant will plan, coordinate, and execute preclinical studies that assess device performance, usability, safety, and biological response in the airway. Responsibilities include developing test methods and study plans; preparing devices, fixtures, and instrumentation; supporting procedures under approved animal-use protocols and veterinary oversight; acquiring and analyzing physiological, imaging, and device-performance data; maintaining complete study records; and communicating results to the research team. The Assistant will collaborate with faculty, veterinarians, surgeons, research staff, students, and external partners to translate prototypes toward clinically relevant validation.
About the Work Unit:
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University advances research and education in biomedical devices, mechatronics and control, advanced manufacturing, rehabilitation engineering, surgical and soft robotics, nanoscience, and aerospace engineering. The Dong Lab develops innovative medical devices and robotic technologies for challenging clinical applications. This position will support the lab's airway-device program by connecting engineering design with rigorous preclinical evaluation in close partnership with veterinary and clinical collaborators.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
The Research Assistant will perform complex technical and operational duties to ensure safe, reproducible, and well-documented preclinical testing. Responsibilities include:
  • Preclinical Study Planning: translate research objectives into testable endpoints, study plans, acceptance criteria, schedules, equipment lists, and data-collection procedures for small- and large-animal studies.
  • Animal Study Coordination:
    • Coordinate small-animal studies and large-animal studies with veterinary staff, clinical collaborators, core facilities, and the principal investigator.

Support study activities only under current IACUC-approved protocols, institutional policies, required training, and direction from qualified veterinary or clinical personnel.
  • Prepare procedure rooms, devices, sterile supplies, airway models, imaging systems, sensors, ventilation-related equipment, and emergency backup equipment before each study.
    • Assist with airway-device placement and evaluation, bronchoscopy or other imaging workflows, physiologic monitoring, specimen handling, and post-procedure activities within the individual's training and authorized role.
  • Medical Device Engineering and Testing: design or modify prototypes, fixtures, delivery systems, and instrumentation; develop bench and ex vivo tests that inform animal studies; troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, fluidic, imaging, and software interfaces; and document device configuration and verification results.
  • Data, Quality, and Documentation: acquire synchronized device, imaging, video, and physiological data; maintain traceable study records; analyze results using appropriate statistical and engineering methods; prepare figures, reports, presentations, and protocol materials; and contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, manuscripts, grant reports, and regulatory-facing documentation.

Supervisory Relationships:
This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the lab faculty member, Dr. Xiaoguang Dong.
Education and Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a closely related field from an accredited institution is required; a master's degree is preferred.

Experience and Skills:
  • At least 1 year of work experience is preferred, but not required so long as the list of requirements below can be met.
  • Knowledge of animal-research compliance, IACUC protocols, biosafety, sterile technique, and humane study practices is required or must be acquired through Vanderbilt training before independent work.
  • Ability to develop clear test methods, follow controlled procedures, maintain accurate records, and troubleshoot complex experiments is required.
  • Proficiency with data analysis and technical documentation is required; experience with MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, ImageJ, CAD, or equivalent engineering tools is preferred.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, veterinarians, clinicians, students, and external partners are required.
  • Strong organizational, time-management, critical-thinking, safety-awareness, and problem-solving skills are necessary.
  • Ability to work flexibly around scheduled animal procedures, including occasional early mornings, evenings, or extended study days, is required.
  • Demonstrated experience with medical-device development, experimental engineering, or preclinical research is required; experience with both small- and large-animal studies is strongly preferred.
  • Experience preparing and operating test instrumentation, sensors, imaging systems, data-acquisition hardware, and custom mechanical or mechatronic prototypes is preferred.
  • Experience with airway procedures, bronchoscopy, intubation, ventilation, anesthesia monitoring, or respiratory physiology in a research or clinical environment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience in an academic research, regulated product-development, or quality-managed laboratory setting is preferred.

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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