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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:

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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All JobsAcademic Research JobsAcademic Research Assistant JobsAcademic Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Academic Research Assistant information

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How much do academic research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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 education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, along with research skills and familiarity with data analysis tools. Candidates with strong academic records, research experience, and good communication skills tend to have better chances of obtaining these roles.

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 some positions requiring specific coursework or research experience.

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 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% 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 - IE

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Learn more about JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITYexternal

$18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Research Assistant - IE
Job no: 20002214
Work type: Institutional Employment
Location: Harrisonburg
Categories: Student Employment
Working Title: Research Assistant - IE
State Role Title: Research Assistant
Position Type: Institutional Employment
Position Status: Part-Time
FLSA Status: Exempt: Not Eligible for Overtime
College/Division: Vice President - REDI
Department: 400341 - MCCD Consultin
Pay Band:
Pay Rate: Hourly
Specify Range or Amount: $18
Is this a JMU only position? No
Is this a grant-funded position? Yes. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon continued funding.
Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No
Beginning Review Date:
About JMU:
General Information:
Located in the heart of Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA. With a population of just over 53,000, Harrisonburg is one of the most diverse communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 20,000 undergraduate and 1,900 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.
The Madison Center for Community Development (MCCD) is a university-wide, transdisciplinary academic center, located within the Division of Research, Economic Development and Innovation (REDI). The mission of MCCD is to grow strong, just, and healthy communities through applied research and participatory program evaluation
Duties and Responsibilities:
This position will primarily assist in the implementation and evaluation of MCCD consulting projects:
• Assist in weekly tasks related to program implementation with community partners.
• Work with clients at partner agencies to record program progress.
• Aid MCCD faculty researchers in evaluation tasks as assigned.
• Conduct data entry, management, and statistical analysis. Use of SPSS, Excel, and other software for research and data entry.
• Assist in grant writing and resource development.
• Assist in preparing reports for federal grant compliance, partner agencies, and the broader community.
Qualifications:
This position requires off-campus hours at community agencies within the Harrisonburg area, as well as at the Madison Center for Community Development (MCCD). The research assistant will report directly to MCCD faculty, who will assign and prioritize duties to advance goals, monitor progress of work assignments, and provide timely feedback to the assigned research assistant and community partner. The research assistant will also participate in workshops hosted by the MCCD to facilitate student oversight and professional development.
Additional Posting Information:
Conditions of Employment:
Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate), or conditionally or unconditionally accepted into a graduate program at JMU. Students who are provisionally accepted will not be eligible.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
EEO Statement:
Reasonable Accommodation:
Advertised: 21 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 08 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
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