Research Jobs in Durham, NC
Research jobs in Durham, North Carolina are concentrated across Research Triangle Park, Downtown Durham, and the Ninth Street corridor, driven by demand in life sciences, academic research, and clinical trials. Employers actively hiring right now include IQVIA, NVIDIA, and Grifols. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Location: Remote
Who we are?
Optimapharm is a mid-sized, global Contract Research Organisation (CRO) turning science into hope through agile, patient-focused clinical development. We specialise in Phase I–IV clinical studies, delivering Full-Service and Functional Service Provision (FSP) solutions that help sponsors move faster and execute with confidence.
With operations in 40+ countries and 2x the patient reach of the average mid-sized CRO, we enable accelerated regulatory pathways, faster study start-up, and access to diverse patient populations worldwide. At Optimapharm, you’ll contribute to meaningful clinical research while growing your career in a dynamic, people‑focused, global environment.
As we expand our US Clinical Operations team, we're searching for a CRA II/III who is motivated by quality, driven by purpose, and eager to contribute to innovative clinical research that changes lives.
Joining Optimapharm means more than taking on your next role - it's an opportunity to build a long-term career with a global CRO that values growth, development, and excellence. Our structured career pathway provides clear progression and recognition of your expertise: CRA I CRA II CRA III Senior CRA.
Here, your dedication is rewarded with meaningful growth opportunities, exposure to diverse studies, and the support needed to reach your full potential.
What do we offer?
- Working in a successful company that’s growing and developing every day
- Being part of a clinical research team that transforms science into hope for patients
- International projects and professional growth
- Company that supports life balance
- Company with healthy culture
- Working with a highly experienced team of clinical research professionals
- Competitive salary
- Competitive PTO entitlement
- Health insurance, including vision and dental plans, to meet your and your family's needs
- Comprehensive pension plan to maximize savings and prepare confidently for the future
- Employee engagement programs
- Well-being initiatives
- Training and development program
- Fast-paced career path progression
Who are we looking for?
Qualifications and Experience
- University degree, preferably in medical or life sciences; nursing education or other relevant healthcare college degree
- At least 2 years of independent clinical trial monitoring experience
- High level of knowledge of ICH GCP Guidelines, knowledge of regulatory requirements and a strong interest in clinical research
- Computer proficiency is mandatory
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Very good interpersonal and negotiation skills
- Ability to work independently, pro-active
- Affinity to work effectively and efficiently in a matrix environment
- A current, valid driver’s license
Your responsibilities
- Perform routine site visits independently, including pre-study, initiation, interim monitoring and closeout visits
- Manage assigned sites by regular contact with site personnel to ensure site compliance, adequate enrolment and understanding of study requirements
- Independently perform CRF review; query generation and resolution against established data review guidelines or data management systems as applicable
- Identifying and escalating potential risks and identifying retraining opportunities for site personnel
- Preparation of corrective and preventive (CAPA) plans for issues identified during monitoring activities and pro-active follow of each, individual CAPA until timely resolution
- Preparation of documents required for EC submissions and notifications, translation of study-related documents (where applicable), and other tasks as instructed by the supervisor
- Independently negotiate study budgets with potential investigators/institutions and assist with the execution of site contracts as applicable
- Administration of site payments in accordance with relevant project instructions
By joining our fast-growing and prosperous team, you will have an excellent opportunity for further personal growth and career development.
If you would be interested in joining the Optimapharm team, please send your CV and note that only shortlisted candidates who meet the requirements will be contacted for the further selection process.
Compensation is competitive and final offers will reflect each candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.
Disclaimer: Unsolicited CVs sent to Optimapharm (Talent Acquisition Team, Hiring Managers or any other OPT employee) by recruitment agencies will not be considered for this role. Optimapharm follows a direct sourcing strategy and collaborates exclusively with selected recruitment partners when external support is required.
See All 57 Research Jobs in Durham
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Find Research JobsResearch Job Market in Durham
Who's Hiring
- IQVIA12

- NVIDIA3

- Grifols3

- Wolfspeed3

- Flatiron Health3

Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Education
- Science & Research
- Electronics & Hardware
- Technology & Software
Research Jobs in Durham: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a research job in Durham?
Durham's strongest hiring comes from life sciences firms, university-affiliated research centers, and clinical trial organizations clustered around Research Triangle Park and Duke University's medical campus. Candidates with hands-on lab experience, data analysis skills, or a background in biotech or public health have a clear edge here. Tailoring your application to show familiarity with Durham's research-intensive sectors helps you stand out in a competitive but active local market.
Which companies hire researchs in Durham?
Companies currently hiring researchs in Durham include IQVIA, NVIDIA, and Grifols, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Durham's employer mix leans heavily toward pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centers, and contract research organizations, reflecting the city's deep roots in science and higher education.
Are there remote research jobs in Durham?
Yes, though it depends on the role: hands-on lab and clinical positions are almost entirely on-site, while data research, literature review, and policy research roles often allow remote or hybrid arrangements. About 38% of research openings tied to Durham are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, and analytical and qualitative research roles tied to RTP-area organizations tend to offer the most flexibility.
How can I get a research job in Durham with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in Durham is through research assistant or lab technician roles at Duke University, UNC Health, or the clinical trial firms operating around Research Triangle Park. Many entry-level positions value hands-on coursework, internship stints, or volunteer research experience over formal credentials. Applying to coordinator or assistant roles at contract research organizations is a practical lateral move that opens doors quickly in this market.
Which industries hire the most researchs in Durham?
Most research openings in Durham sit in Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, Education, and Science & Research, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Durham's concentration of pharmaceutical firms, academic hospitals, and federally funded research institutions makes it one of the most research-intensive cities in the Southeast, which sustains consistent local demand across those sectors.
Related Jobs in North Carolina
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