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Senior Researcher Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

Our research and development is currently supported and funded by the U.S. Army, U.S. Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and LaunchTN. We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist ...

Senior Scientist

Knoxville, TN · Hybrid

$87K - $119K/yr

Our research and development is currently supported and funded by the U.S. Army, U.S. Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and LaunchTN. We are seeking a Senior Research Scientist ...

Senior Research Scientist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist leads research and development activities related to semiconductor radiation detector technology used in ORTEC gamma-ray spectroscopy and radiation measurement products.

Senior Research Analyst

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$105K - $106K/yr

The Senior Research Analyst responds to complex legal, corporate, and industry research requests, meeting the daily information needs of firm lawyers, business professionals and clients using ...

Senior Research Scientist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Senior Research Scientist leads research and development activities related to semiconductor radiation detector technology used in ORTEC gamma-ray spectroscopy and radiation measurement products.

Senior Research Analyst

Nashville, TN

$112K - $112K/yr

The Senior Research Analyst responds to complex legal, corporate, and industry research requests, meeting the daily information needs of firm lawyers, business professionals and clients using ...

Senior Research Scientist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist leads research and development activities related to semiconductor radiation detector technology used in ORTEC gamma-ray spectroscopy and radiation measurement products.

Sr. Data Analyst

Nashville, TN · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

We seek an experienced Senior Research Data Analyst to provide data management and analysis expertise to projects across the Center. The role primarily includes original survey and program data ...

Research Assistant

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

The Research Assistant II reports directly to the Senior Research Associate/Project Director. The Research Assistant II will support multiple aspects of project operations, including assisting with ...

Sr. Research Scientist

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist is responsible for leading the development of innovative skincare and personal care formulations from concept through commercialization within the Formulation Sciences ...

Sr. Research Scientist

Johnson City, TN

$94K - $120K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist is responsible for leading the development of innovative skincare and personal care formulations from concept through commercialization within the Formulation Sciences ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Researcher information

See Tennessee salary details

$25.9K

$69.5K

$124.8K

How much do senior researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior researcher in Tennessee is $69,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $89,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior researcher?

Senior Researchers are experienced professionals who lead and oversee research projects within their field of expertise. They are responsible for designing studies, analyzing data, mentoring junior researchers, and publishing findings in academic journals or industry reports. Their work often involves securing funding, collaborating with other experts, and ensuring research meets ethical and methodological standards. Senior Researchers play a crucial role in advancing knowledge and innovation within their organizations or institutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior researcher?

To thrive as a Senior Researcher, you need advanced analytical skills, subject matter expertise, and typically a PhD or equivalent experience in your field. Familiarity with specialized research software, statistical analysis tools, and data management systems is often required. Strong critical thinking, leadership, and effective communication skills help in managing projects and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for driving innovative research, securing funding, and generating impactful results.

How does a senior researcher typically collaborate with junior team members and cross-functional departments?

Senior Researchers often play a mentorship role, guiding junior researchers through project design, data analysis, and publication processes. They frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams such as product development, data science, or policy groups to align research objectives with organizational goals. This often involves regular meetings, sharing insights, and ensuring research findings are effectively translated into actionable strategies. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential for fostering a collaborative, innovative environment.

What is the difference between Senior Researcher vs Research Scientist?

AspectSenior ResearcherResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, extensive research experienceMaster's or PhD, specialized research skills
Work EnvironmentAcademic, corporate, or government labs; leading projectsResearch-focused roles in labs, industry, or academia
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporationsResearch institutions, biotech, tech companies
Common Search & ComparisonSenior ResearcherResearch Scientist

The main difference between a Senior Researcher and a Research Scientist lies in experience level and scope of responsibilities. Senior Researchers often lead projects and mentor junior staff, while Research Scientists focus on conducting specialized research. Both roles require advanced degrees and research expertise, but Senior Researchers typically have more leadership duties and broader project oversight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Researcher jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Senior Researcher jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Senior Researcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Researcher job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,530 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Lead Researcher OR Senior Researcher- Microbial Biorepository Collaborative Center (HMI)

Thecentermemphis

Memphis, TN • On-site

$60K - $105K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Lead Researcher or Senior Researcher to join the Department of Host‑Microbe Interactions within the Microbial Biorepository Collaborative Center. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in microbiology, with hands‑on experience in the genetic and phenotypic characterization of diverse bacterial species. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with a demonstrated ability to maintain accurate, timely records and manage complex databases. This role involves close collaboration with both basic scientists and clinical laboratories to support a range of daily experimental activities, including but not limited to: microbial strain cultivation, phenotypic characterization, nucleic acid extraction, whole genome sequencing, and coordination of strain imports and investigator requests. The ability to work both independently and part of a collaborative team in a dynamic lab environment is required.

Senior Researcher Job Responsibilities
  • Perform processes/ procedures using established techniques/protocols with increased efficiency and independence.
  • Provide some lab operational support with increased knowledge of the lab environment.
  • Execute/ follow more complex procedures/protocols and provide basic troubleshooting of experiments.
  • Accurately record experimental procedures and data.
  • Prepare and report results/ data leading to posters, presentations, or publications.
  • Provide guidance to less‑experienced team members.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned in order to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.
  • Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
Minimum Education and/or Training
  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant scientific area is required.
Minimum Experience
  • Two (2) years of research experience is required with a bachelor's degree.
  • No prior experience is required with a Master’s degree.
  • Working knowledge and understanding of underlying concepts and principles of experimental design.
  • Experience with the most widely used techniques used in the home laboratory.
  • Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role.
Compensation

A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $26.00 - $45.50 per hour for the role of Senior Researcher.

Lead Researcher Job Responsibilities
  • Develop and perform procedures using established or modified techniques/protocols
  • Implement new but established protocols without individual training
  • Troubleshoot experiments and identify anomalies in own data
  • Consistently monitors current literature and trends within field
  • Accurately record experimental procedures and data
  • Prepare and report results/ data leading to posters, presentations, or publications
  • Provide guidance to less‑experienced team members
  • Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.
  • Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
Minimum Education and/or Training
  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required.
Minimum Experience
  • 5+ years of research experience is required
  • 3+ years of experience is required with a Master’s degree
  • No prior experience required with a PhD
  • Strong knowledge and experience in understanding and application of underlying principles related to techniques being performed
  • Experience in R&D methods and processes in lab setting, and execution of research projects for the laboratory preferred
  • Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role
Compensation

A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $60,320 - $105,040 per year for the role of Lead Researcher or Senior Researcher- Microbial Biorepository Collaborative Center (HMI).

Explore our exceptional benefits!

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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