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Vaccine Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Research Analyst I The Lab Research Analyst I is a hands-on laboratory scientist who supports ... Receive and process human, macaque, and mouse samples from vaccine studies and clinical trials ...

Lab Research Analyst I The Lab Research Analyst I is a hands-on laboratory scientist who supports ... Receive and process human, macaque, and mouse samples from vaccine studies and clinical trials ...

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Vaccine Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do vaccine researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for vaccine researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Vaccine Researcher vs Clinical Research Associate?

AspectVaccine ResearcherClinical Research Associate
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in biology, microbiology, or immunology; research experienceDegree in life sciences or health-related fields; clinical trial knowledge
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsClinical trial sites, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma companiesPharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in vaccine developmentComparing clinical trial roles in healthcare research

Vaccine Researchers focus on developing and testing vaccines in laboratory settings, while Clinical Research Associates oversee clinical trials to ensure compliance and data integrity. Both roles are essential in vaccine development but differ in their responsibilities and work environments.

What does a vaccine researcher do?

A vaccine researcher studies viruses, bacteria, and the immune system to develop new vaccines or improve existing ones. Their work involves conducting laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and running clinical trials to ensure vaccine safety and effectiveness. Vaccine researchers collaborate with other scientists and healthcare professionals, often working for universities, government agencies, or pharmaceutical companies. Their efforts are crucial in preventing infectious diseases and improving public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vaccine Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vaccine Researcher, you need a solid background in immunology, microbiology, and molecular biology, usually supported by an advanced degree such as a Ph.D. or Pharm.D. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, data analysis software, and regulatory compliance systems is essential, as are certifications in biosafety. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative communication skills help researchers innovate and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure rigorous scientific development, safety, and efficacy in vaccine creation.

What are some typical challenges a Vaccine Researcher faces during the development process?

Vaccine Researchers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the safety and efficacy of new vaccine candidates, meeting rigorous regulatory requirements, and adapting to evolving pathogens. The work involves extensive collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including immunologists, clinical trial coordinators, and regulatory specialists. Additionally, researchers must manage tight timelines while navigating complex data analysis and frequent protocol adjustments, all within a highly regulated laboratory environment.
More about Vaccine Researcher jobs
What states have the most Vaccine Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Vaccine Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Vaccine Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Research Assistant/Associate - Immunology and Mucosal Vaccine Development

Texas Biomedical Research Institute

San Antonio, TX โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

We are seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and detail-oriented Senior Research Assistant/Associate to join our research team at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. This full-time position is an excellent opportunity for an experienced individual passionate about advancing vaccine research and development.


Our laboratory focuses on vaccine research and development, Infectious disease prevention, and disease transmission studies, using the non-human primate (NHP) model. ย Current research efforts are directed toward developing innovative mucosal vaccine platforms (HIV, HPV/HIV, TB, ...) to prevent or control infection while investigating the immune responses and correlates of protection.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Isolate, prepare, and process biological specimens from NHPs.
  • Conduct and optimize scientific experiments related to mucosal vaccines.
  • Investigate host immune responses, including cellular and humoral immunity.
  • Set up and operate laboratory equipment, contributing to maintenance and calibration.
  • Record, compile, and analyze research data while maintaining meticulous documentation.
  • Perform standardization and troubleshooting of experimental protocols as needed.
  • Assist with database management, freezer inventories, and tissue sample tracking.
  • Order laboratory supplies and reagents to ensure smooth operations.
  • Participate in laboratory meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
  • Present findings and contribute to the lab's collaborative research environment.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, Microbiology or Immunology.
  • A minimum of four years of laboratory bench experience.
  • Proficiency in immunology techniques (ELISPOT, Flow cytometry, Luminex, etc.).
  • Experience working in BSL-2+ and/or BSL-3 environments.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail.

Preferred:

  • Master's degree in, Microbiology, Immunology, or translational sciences with at least three years of research experience.
  • Expertise in multicolor flow cytometry, neutralizing antibody assays, immunohistology/imaging.
  • Experience in cellular phenotype characterization and advanced immunological techniques.
  • Familiarity with Non-human primate (NHP) research is highly desirable.

Our Ideal Candidate:

  • Demonstrate a strong work ethic and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
  • Exhibit excellent communication skills (both written and spoken) in English.
  • Show a commitment to contributing to the lab's vaccine research for at least three years.
  • This position reports directly to Dr. Marie-Claire Gauduin. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter summarizing their research interests, past experience, and laboratory expertise, along with their curriculum vitae.

Who We Are:ย 


Join our incredible mission to pave the way for a world free from the fear of infectious disease!ย 

Texas Biomedical Research Institute is pioneering and sharing scientific research to protect you, your families, and our global community from the threat of infectious diseases. Our scientific discoveries create breakthroughs in medical research to provide better overall global health.


Texas Biomed is the only independent, nonprofit infectious disease research institute in the U.S. to combine:ย 

  • The highest-level biocontainment labs for infectious disease and biodefense research
  • A federally-designated National Primate Research Centerย 
  • More than 80 years of discoveries advancing diagnostics, ย vaccines and therapies
  • An entrepreneurial culture and specialized expertise in regulated science required for FDA approvalย 

What We Can Offer You!ย 

  • Enjoy an employee-centered culture grounded in open communication, empowerment, and trust. We believe in working hard and having fun, offering 100+ culture events each year to bring our team together and keep the energy strong!
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for you and your family-including pet insurance options.
  • Competitive employer-funded retirement plan with 6% contributions starting on day one, increasing with years of service.
  • Generous paid time off, including 14 paid holidays and a paid Winter Recess (from the last week of December through New Year's).
  • Paid time off for short-term illness and mental wellness, helping you take the time you need when life happens.
  • Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to encourage giving back to the community.
  • Paid parental leave to support you and your growing family.
  • Flexible work arrangements that support a strong work-life balance.
  • On-site medical clinic, wellness incentives, and prescription support programs designed to make care more accessible and affordable.
  • On-site fitness center and wellness programs to help you stay active and healthy.
  • Relaxed dress code so you can feel comfortable and be yourself at work.
  • Dynamic learning environment with professional development opportunities, mentorship, tuition reimbursement, and leadership programs to support your growth.
  • Proud recipient of the 2025 Healthy Workplace Platinum Recognition from the San Antonio Business Group on Health (SABGH)-the highest honor for employee-focused wellness initiatives.


We take pride in fostering a culture of respect, opportunity, and unity! Texas Biomedical Research Institute provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.