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Academic Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533999 Work type: Staff Senior ... Prior experience in an academic biomedical research setting. Pay Band 3 Overtime Status Non-Exempt:

Liberty

Research Assistant

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$12.77/hr

The Research Assistant will assist the Dean or a Faculty member of the Law School with various ... Must be in good academic standing * Legal research and writing experience * Experience in managing ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

This position provides research and analytical support for academic and organizational initiatives ... * Assist in the development of research proposals, including the preparation of background ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

This position provides research and analytical support for academic and organizational initiatives ... * Assist in the development of research proposals, including the preparation of background ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET ... This position provides research and analytical support for academic and organizational initiatives ...

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How much do academic research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for academic research assistant in Virginia is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic research assistant?

Academic Research Assistants need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid academic background in their research field, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), academic databases, and proper citation methods is typically required. Excellent organizational abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work independently or as part of a team help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are essential for producing high-quality research, maintaining data integrity, and supporting successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Academic Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAcademic Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labsHospitals, research labs, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizationsMedical, biotech, industrial labs
Common Search & ComparisonAcademic Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician

The main difference between an Academic Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their educational requirements and work focus. Academic Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and assist with research projects in academic settings. Laboratory Technicians often have an associate's degree or certification and focus on conducting routine lab tests and procedures. Both roles support scientific research but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What is an academic research assistant?

Academic Research Assistants are individuals, often undergraduate or graduate students, who support faculty or lead researchers in conducting scholarly studies. Their duties can include gathering and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and assisting in the organization of research materials. They play a crucial role in advancing academic projects and may also help with administrative tasks related to research. This position provides valuable experience for those interested in pursuing advanced studies or a career in research.

Is it hard to get a job as an academic research assistant?

Securing an academic research assistant position can be competitive and often requires relevant educational background, research skills, and sometimes prior experience. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with research tools, and a good academic record can improve chances of obtaining such roles.

What are some common challenges faced by academic research assistants, and how can they be managed?

Academic Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks with tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and ensuring accuracy in data collection and analysis. Effective time management, clear communication with supervising faculty, and maintaining organized records can help manage these challenges. Building collaborative relationships within the research team also supports knowledge sharing and problem-solving, making it easier to navigate complex research projects.

What do academic research assistants do?

Academic research assistants support faculty and researchers by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data, conducting literature reviews, and assisting with experiments or projects. They often use tools like statistical software and may be involved in preparing reports or presentations. The role typically requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with work often performed in university or research institution settings.

What qualifications do I need to be an academic research assistant?

To become an academic research assistant, candidates typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or humanities. Strong research skills, familiarity with data analysis tools, and good communication abilities are also important; some positions may require prior research experience or specific technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Academic Research jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Academic Research jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Academic Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Academic Research Assistant job openings:

Academic Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,306 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Research Assistant

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant
Job no: 533999
Work type: Staff
Senior management: Vice President for Research
Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
Job Description
The Shin Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (VTC, Virginia Tech Carilion) is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support neuroscience projects and oversee day-to-day laboratory operations. This professional research position is an excellent opportunity for individuals with strong laboratory skills who enjoy working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. Lab Website: https://fbri.vtc.vt.edu/research/labs/shin.html
The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting research projects, managing the mouse colony, and serving as the "go-to" person for lab trainees. We are particularly interested in candidates with hands-on experience in stereotaxic surgery and mouse handling.
Key Responsibilities
• Perform stereotaxic surgeries and behavioral assays in mouse models.
• Carry out molecular and cellular techniques, including molecular cloning, brain sectioning, cardiac perfusion, and immunohistochemistry.
• Conduct tissue culture and assist in viral vector (AAV, Lentivirus) preparation.
• Maintain detailed, accurate experimental records in compliance with IBC and IACUC protocols.
• Contribute to research team meetings, problem-solving, and data quality improvement.
• Manage a large transgenic mouse breeding colony: genotyping, welfare monitoring, and record-keeping.
• Ensure the lab is well-organized, compliant with regulations, and that protocols are up to date.
• Support and train new lab members in experimental and safety procedures.
Required Qualifications
• Proven experience with mouse handling and stereotaxic surgery.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Preferred Qualifications
• Degree or coursework in biosciences, neuroscience, biology, or a related field with substantial laboratory experience.
• Prior experience in an academic biomedical research setting.
Pay Band
3
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with Experience
Hours per week
40
Review Date
9/5/2025
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at sheltb@vtc.vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: August 26, 2025
Applications close:
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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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