Associate Research Scientist I

Caris Life Sciences • Tempe, AZ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

At Caris, we understand that cancer is an ugly word—a word no one wants to hear, but one that connects us all. That’s why we’re not just transforming cancer care—we’re changing lives. We introduced precision medicine to the world and built an industry around the idea that every patient deserves answers as unique as their DNA. Backed by cutting-edge molecular science and AI, we ask ourselves every day: “What would I do if this patient were my mom?” That question drives everything we do. But our mission doesn’t stop with cancer. We're pushing the frontiers of medicine and leading a revolution in healthcare—driven by innovation, compassion, and purpose. Join us in our mission to improve the human condition across multiple diseases. If you're passionate about meaningful work and want to be part of something bigger than yourself, Caris is where your impact begins. Position Summary The Associate Research Scientist I (ARSI) provides independent scientific expertise and leadership for pathology-related components of research and development initiatives. This role exercises advanced scientific judgment in tissue evaluation, tumor assessment, and study design support, serving as a primary pathology subject matter expert for research programs. The position operates with minimal supervision and contributes directly to research strategy, data interpretation, and methodological decision-making.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a chemical, biological, clinical or medical laboratory science, or medical technology with one of the following: Certified Cytotechnologist (ASCP), Pathologist Assistant (ASCP or AAPA), Histotechnologist (ASCP), other applicable laboratory certification, or internal training. OR Certified as a Medical Doctor (foreign trained is acceptable). OR Bachelor of Science degree that does not fit into the above categories and the following: At least 60 semester hours, or equivalent, from an accredited institution that, at a minimum, includes either: 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses; OR 24 semester hours of science courses that include: 6 semester hours of chemistry; 6 semester hours of biology; AND 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology in any combination. AND Completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES or the CAAHEP (this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above); OR At least 3 months documented laboratory training in each specialty in which the individual performs high complexity testing
• Demonstrated ability to exercise independent scientific judgment in pathology-related research, including interpretation of histologic findings and advisory support for experimental design.
• Experience collaborating with research teams and communicating complex pathology concepts to non-pathology stakeholders.
• Experience developing or contributing to pathology protocols, analytical approaches, or research methodologies.
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems, digital pathology platforms, and standard scientific software tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document scientific rationale and present findings clearly.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while appropriately consulting Pathologists on complex or high-impact issues.
• A high degree of care and attention with strict adherence to defined clinical testing protocols.
• Years of experience required: 3-5

Nice To Haves

• Masters or MD.
• Years of experience preferred: 5+

Responsibilities

• Serves as a primary pathology advisor for research and development experiments, providing independent scientific guidance on tissue selection, tumor assessment, and pathology-related study design.
• Communicates pathology concepts, findings, and limitations to R&D teams; educates scientists on pathology considerations relevant to experimental design and data interpretation.
• Performing Pathology report review, macrodissecting / microdissecting areas of tumor, marking of H&E (tumor and/or normal tissue). Quality control tissue.
• Independently evaluates pathology-related questions and issues arising in research studies and consults Pathologists as appropriate for complex or novel cases.
• Develops, evaluates, and refines pathology protocols and standards to support research objectives and ensure scientific rigor and reproducibility.
• Designs and contributes to the development of digital pathology tools and analytical approaches, including algorithm development, to improve interpretation and understanding of slides.
• Reviews pathology-related data, annotations, and analyses for scientific accuracy, consistency, and appropriateness for research use.
• Identifies pathology-related risks, limitations, or opportunities within research projects and recommends scientifically sound mitigation strategies.
• Operates with a high degree of independence in planning and executing pathology-related research activities, prioritizing work based on project needs and scientific impact.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees