Research Associate I or II- Preclinical Research

Job Description

Job Description

Position: Research Associate I or II- Small animal Preclinical 

Hourly Range: $24 - $32 /hr

Location: Carlsbad, CA

About Pharmaron

Pharmaron is a global contract research and manufacturing organization (CRO/CDMO) helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 25,000 employees worldwide across 28 locations in the US, UK, China, and Singapore, we support drug discovery through to manufacturing with fully integrated high-quality services.

We're proud of the impact we make and just last year, we supported 887 discovery projects , 1,100+ CMC programs , and 1,397 clinical trials across all phases. Our teams are involved in everything from small molecules, ADC's, biologics, and gene therapies and we work with more than 3,300 global customers . To learn more, visit

Job Overview:

Pharmaron (San Diego) is seeking a Research Associate I or II- Preclinical Research to support animal preclinical studies.

This role offers hands-on involvement in innovative in vivo research supporting the development of next-generation medical devices and therapeutics across multiple therapeutic areas. The successful candidate will work alongside experienced scientists, veterinarians, and study teams in a fast-paced CRO environment, contributing directly to translational research programs that help advance new technologies toward clinical development.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with veterinary research, preclinical, surgical, animal experience who are looking to expand their technical expertise and grow within a collaborative and scientifically driven organization.

Responsibilities:

In Vivo & Surgical Support

• Support animal preclinical studies involving medical devices and translational research programs
• Perform administration of test articles through various routes including oral gavage, SQ, IV, dermal, and related procedures
• Conduct biological specimen collection including blood collection from laboratory animal species
• Perform surgical support procedures including:
• Catheter placements
• Intubation and anesthesia support
• Venous and arterial line placement
• Surgical incision and wound creation
• Biopsies and tissue collection
• Necropsy procedures
• Monitor animals during anesthesia, post-operative recovery, and general health observations
• Apply aseptic surgical and laboratory techniques in accordance with study requirements

Study Operations & Compliance

• Execute study-related activities in compliance with GLP regulations, study protocols, SOPs, and company policies
• Prepare procedure rooms, study materials, and collection supplies
• Maintain accurate study documentation and data records
• Review study documentation to ensure quality and protocol compliance
• Support internal research initiatives and operational process improvements

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Study Directors, Principal Investigators, QA/QC, and operational teams to support successful study execution
• Interface with internal scientific and operational groups in a collaborative team environment
• Contribute to a positive, flexible, and fast-paced research culture

What We're Looking For:

• Associate degree in Veterinary Technology, Animal Science, or related scientific field preferred
• 1–5+ years of relevant preclinical, veterinary research, surgical, or laboratory animal experience depending on education and technical background
• RVT certification is a plus
• Experience supporting animal studies or surgical research preferred
• Working knowledge of preclinical research techniques, GLP studies, and translational research environments is highly desirable
• Strong communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail
• Ability to adapt within a dynamic and team-oriented research environment
• Leveling and compensation will be determined based on education, technical expertise, surgical experience, and overall preclinical research background.

Why Pharmaron?

Pharmaron is a premier service provider for the life sciences industry. Founded in 2004, Pharmaron has invested in its people and facilities and established a broad spectrum of research, development, and manufacturing service capabilities throughout the entire drug discovery, preclinical, and clinical development process across multiple therapeutic modalities, including small molecules, biologics, and CGT products. With over 25,000 employees and operations in the US, UK, China, and Singapore. Pharmaron has an excellent track record in delivering R&D solutions to its partners in North America, Europe, Japan, and China.

Collaborative Culture: You will thrive in our inclusive and collaborative environment, where teamwork and innovation go hand in hand. Here, your voice matters, and your contributions make a real impact. "Employees Number One" and "Clients Centered" are the core cultural values at Pharmaron. Our culture, which sets Pharmaron apart from other organizations, has evolved from our deep commitment to our employees, partners, and collaborators.

Benefits: As part of our commitment to your well-being, we offer a comprehensive benefits package:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance with significant employer contributions
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with generous employer matching
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Sick Leave & Company Holidays to support work-life balance
• Employer-funded Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions (for eligible plans), plus Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• 100% Employer-paid Employee Life Insurance, AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), mental health resources, and wellness programs
• Family-friendly benefits, including fertility support and maternity resources
• Professional development and career growth opportunities within a leading global CRO/CDMO

How to Apply:

Ready to seize this incredible opportunity? Join us at Pharmaron and be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in biopharmaceutical research and development. Apply online today!

As an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, Pharmaron values diversity and inclusion in the workplace, fostering an environment where all individuals are empowered to succeed. Join us in our mission to make a difference in the world of life sciences.

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