Preclinical Veterinary Research Associate I, II, or III

Position: Preclinical Veterinary Research Associate I, II, or III

Department: Ophthalmology

Hourly Range: $25 to $35 (DOE)

Location: Carlsbad, CA

Job Overview

Pharmaron San Diego is seeking a motivated Preclinical Veterinary Research Associate I, II, or III to join our Ophthalmology team supporting preclinical translational research programs focused on innovative ophthalmic therapeutics.

This role offers hands-on experience supporting in vivo ophthalmic studies involving rodents, rabbits, and additional laboratory animal models within a collaborative CRO environment. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists, veterinarians, and study teams while developing specialized technical expertise in ophthalmic procedures, animal care, dosing, imaging support, anesthesia, and surgical research.

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with preclinical research, veterinary research, or in vivo laboratory experience who are looking to expand their technical skills and grow within a fast-paced and scientifically driven organization.

Key Responsibilities

In Vivo Research & Animal Procedures

• Support rodent and rabbit ophthalmology studies in a GLP-regulated preclinical research environment
• Administer test articles through oral gavage, SQ, IV, ID, and topical ocular dosing routes across multiple species
• Observe, monitor, and assess animal health, welfare, and clinical observations
• Perform biological specimen collection including blood draws and tissue sampling
• Restrain and handle animals for ophthalmic imaging and diagnostic procedures
• Perform aseptic techniques and follow biosafety and animal care guidelines

Ophthalmic & Surgical Support

• Perform Intraocular Pressure (IOP) measurements using Pneumatonometer or Tonovet systems
• Support ophthalmic imaging and diagnostic assessments
• Assist with necropsies and ophthalmic tissue collections
• Support surgical procedures and provide assistance to operating surgeons
• Perform and monitor anesthesia and analgesia, including post-operative recovery
• Place catheters in small and large animals as required by study protocols

Study Operations & Compliance

• Execute study-related activities in compliance with GLP regulations, study protocols, SOPs, and company policies
• Conduct study setup activities including room preparation, supply staging, and labeling
• Maintain accurate and timely data entry within internal systems including eQCM, Provantis, and Vivarium+
• Review study documentation to ensure quality and protocol compliance
• Support internal research initiatives and operational improvements
• Perform additional duties as directed by management

What We're Looking For

We're seeking candidates who are passionate about preclinical research and thrive in hands-on laboratory and surgical environments. Successful candidates will bring strong technical skills, attention to detail, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset to support complex ophthalmic research studies within a fast-paced CRO setting.

Qualifications

Preclinical Veterinary Research Associate I

• Associate degree in Veterinary Technology with 1–2 years of relevant experience, or BS degree with 1 year of relevant experience

Preclinical Veterinary Research Associate II

• Associate degree in Veterinary Technology with 3 years of relevant experience, or BS degree with 2 years of relevant experience

Preclinical Veterinary Research Associate III

• Associate degree in Veterinary Technology with 4 years of relevant experience, or BS degree with 3 years of relevant experience

A combination of education and relevant hands-on experience will also be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) certification highly preferred
• Experience working with rodents, rabbits, or ophthalmic animal models