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Student Research Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Student Research Associate information

What is a student research associate?

Student Research Associates are students, typically at the undergraduate or graduate level, who assist faculty or professional researchers with academic or scientific research projects. Their responsibilities may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and helping with experiments or fieldwork. This role provides hands-on experience in research methodologies and often helps students develop skills essential for future academic or professional careers.

What are some typical challenges student research associates face when balancing academic responsibilities with research commitments?

Student Research Associates often juggle coursework deadlines, exams, and research tasks simultaneously, which can be challenging to manage. Effective time management and clear communication with both academic advisors and research supervisors are essential to prevent conflicts and ensure productivity. Many students find it helpful to set regular check-ins with their research team and plan their schedules in advance to accommodate both requirements. Additionally, learning to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance can significantly reduce stress and enhance performance in both areas.

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

To thrive as a Student Research Associate, you need a solid understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, usually gained through relevant coursework or a degree program. Familiarity with tools like statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, or citation management systems is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and time management are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and handling multiple tasks. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate data collection, efficient project progression, and meaningful contributions to research outcomes.

What is the difference between Student Research Associate vs Research Intern?

AspectStudent Research AssociateResearch Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled student, relevant courseworkTypically students or early career professionals
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, university settingsResearch institutions, labs, or corporate R&D
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsResearch organizations, industry R&D departments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Student Research Associate and a Research Intern lies in their typical work environment and credentials. Student Research Associates are usually enrolled students working within academic settings, focusing on coursework and research projects. Research Interns may be students or early professionals working in research labs or industry R&D. Both roles involve research tasks, but the context and employer types differ.

How much is a student research associate paid?

Student research associates are typically paid hourly wages that range from minimum wage to around $15-$20 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and level of experience. Some positions may be unpaid or offer stipends, especially for undergraduate students, and compensation often depends on funding availability and project scope.

What do you do as a student research associate?

A student research associate assists with research projects by collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, and supporting the research team. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher and may use tools like laboratory equipment or data analysis software. This role helps students gain practical experience in their field of study and develop research skills.

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

The most popular types of Student Research jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

Student Research Associate jobs near you

Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Freshwater Microbial Ecology - UTK

The University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Wilhelm and Talmy research groups in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Tennessee invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join an interdisciplinary project examining how episodic events shape competition, oxidative stress responses, and toxin production in the bloom-forming cyanobacterium Microcystis.

The successful candidate will contribute to controlled chemostat experiments, mesocosm studies, molecular and physiological analyses, and integration of laboratory results with predictive modeling. The project focuses on mechanisms linking short-term temperature fluctuations, oxidative stress, strain succession, and microcystin production in Lake Erie and related freshwater systems. The project also addresses the role of nutrient elements in selection for Microcystis. We seek applicants with a Ph.D. in microbiology, aquatic ecology, environmental science, biological oceanography, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include experience in one or more of the following: cyanobacterial culture, experimental design, flow cytometry, qPCR/transcriptomics, physiological measurements, environmental data analysis, or quantitative/modeling approaches. Candidates should have a strong publication record, excellent communication skills, and interest in collaborative, cross-disciplinary research.

The postdoctoral fellow will work closely with a team spanning microbiology, physiology, field ecology, and modeling, and will have opportunities to mentor students, publish high-impact research, and participate in field activities in the Great Lakes region.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone. 

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community! 

Required Qualifications

  • A Ph.D. in microbiology, aquatic ecology, environmental science, biological oceanography, or a related field. 

  • Experience in one or more of the following: cyanobacterial culture, experimental design, flow cytometry, qPCR/transcriptomics, physiological measurements, environmental data analysis, or quantitative/modeling approaches. 

  • Candidates should have a strong publication record, excellent communication skills, and interest in collaborative, cross-disciplinary research.

Preferred Experience: 

  • Experience in molecular biology

  • Experience in algal culture

  • Experience in mathematical modeling

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Must have knowledge of basic biology and microbiology. 

  • Must be familiar with using computers to analyze data and in reading scientific literature. 

  • Techniques needed may include, but are not limited to: 

    • Algal culturing

    • Molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR)

    • Light and fluorescence microscopy

    • Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within microbiology

Work Location: 

  • Knoxville, TN

  • Onsite

Compensation and Benefits 

  • Anticipated hiring range: $62,500 - $65,000
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions 

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials should be submitted on or before August 1, 2026. 

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter

About The Department

The Department of Microbiology is an active participant and leader in the Community of Scholars on Immunology and Inflammation (CoSI2), Community of Scholars on Microbial Consortia (CoSMiC), and Biomembranes Community of Scholars at UTK, which brings together engineering, chemistry, veterinary, and material sciences, UT Institute of Agriculture (UTIA), Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL), and the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) in Knoxville. Labs have access to multiple core facilities on campus including animal facility, genomics core, imaging core, mass-spectrometry core, flow cytometers and cell sorters (https://research.utk.edu/oried/core-facilities/). UTK is the flagship university of the University of Tennessee System and is designated as a Carnegie 'Very High Research Activity' University. 

The Department of Microbiology values the quality of life of all its members and is committed to promoting an atmosphere where all members of the university community feel welcome and can thrive.  Located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, The University of Tennessee Knoxville was founded in 1794 and is one of the oldest public universities in the nation. There are over 40,000 students enrolled at the Knoxville campus, who train and study in a city where excellence in academia meets the natural beauty of the southern Appalachian region and in the company of the artists, makers, and entrepreneurs that call Knoxville their home.

Responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

  • Lead, plan and carry out research associated with freshwater microbial communities in lab and field studies
  • Collect, analyze data, and create reports on activities to present at lab meetings
  • Generate peer-reviewed publications on the outcomes of research
  • Assist in the mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students in the research team. 
  • Participate in the labs outreach/broader impact efforts in the location community

Apply