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Academic Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrated progressively advanced experience in academic or applied research leadership ... Demonstrated success in securing and managing externally funded research projects. Established ...

AP Research Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching the academic research process from question development through paper defense. Guides students through conducting systematic literature reviews, selecting appropriate research ...

AP Research Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching the academic research process from question development through paper defense. Guides students through conducting systematic literature reviews, selecting appropriate research ...

Skilled at teaching the academic research process from question development through paper defense. Guides students through conducting systematic literature reviews, selecting appropriate research ...

AP Research Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching the academic research process from question development through paper defense. Guides students through conducting systematic literature reviews, selecting appropriate research ...

AP Research Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching the academic research process from question development through paper defense. Guides students through conducting systematic literature reviews, selecting appropriate research ...

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Showing results 1-20

Academic Research information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$59.3K

$93.2K

How much do academic research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic research in Virginia is $59,339.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is academic research?

Academic research is a systematic investigation conducted by scholars, students, or professionals to contribute new knowledge or insights within a specific field of study. It involves formulating research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on evidence. Academic research can take many forms, including experiments, surveys, literature reviews, or theoretical studies, and is typically published in journals or presented at conferences. The goal is to advance understanding, inform policy, or solve complex problems.

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

Academic researchers often navigate challenges such as securing funding, publishing their findings, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and balancing teaching or administrative duties can add complexity to the role. Successful researchers develop strong time management skills, proactively seek feedback, and stay updated on funding opportunities. Building a supportive network within the academic community and being adaptable to evolving research priorities are also essential for long-term success.

What do you need to be an academic researcher?

To become an academic researcher, you typically need at least a master's degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field, strong analytical and research skills, and experience with research methodologies and data analysis tools. Academic researchers often work in universities or research institutions and may require publication records or grants to support their work.

How do you get into academic research?

To pursue a career in academic research, individuals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, with many roles requiring a master's or doctoral degree. Gaining research experience through internships, assisting faculty, or working on projects helps build skills in data analysis, methodology, and academic writing. Developing expertise in specific tools or software and publishing findings in journals can also enhance prospects in this field.

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

To thrive as an Academic Researcher, you need strong analytical thinking, subject-matter expertise, and a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or Ph.D. Proficiency with research methodologies, statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R), and academic publishing tools is typically required. Attention to detail, perseverance, and effective written and verbal communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills enable rigorous research, credible results, and successful dissemination of findings within the academic community.

What is the difference between Academic Research vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAcademic ResearchLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD often preferredAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutes, labsHospitals, industrial labs, research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, government researchHealthcare, biotech, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Academic Research involves conducting in-depth studies primarily in educational or government settings, often focusing on advancing knowledge. Laboratory Technicians support these efforts by performing routine lab tasks, experiments, and maintaining equipment. While both roles require scientific knowledge, Academic Researchers typically have advanced degrees and focus on hypothesis-driven research, whereas Laboratory Technicians usually hold technical degrees and assist with day-to-day lab operations.

What does an academic research do?

An academic researcher conducts studies to generate new knowledge or validate existing theories within a specific field. They design experiments, analyze data, review literature, and publish findings, often working in universities or research institutions and using tools like statistical software. Their work supports advancements in education, science, and policy development.

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 are popular job titles related to Academic Research jobs in Virginia?

For Academic Research jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Academic Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,339 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Adj - Academic Research/Other | Family Medicine | SOM

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


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Job description

Adj - Academic Research/Other | Family Medicine | SOM

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU's sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.

The Department of Family Medicine and Population Health at Virginia Commonwealth University seeks a Staff Physician Researcher (Hourly) to support the Nasal Steroids, Irrigation, Oral Antibiotics, and Subgroup Targeting for Effective Management of Acute Sinusitis (NOSES) Trial, a multi-site pragmatic randomized controlled trial funded through the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). The Staff Physician Researcher will provide clinical, research, operational, and administrative support for the NOSES trial, with primary responsibility for overseeing and supporting study implementation at Northern Virginia clinical sites.

Working closely with the Principal Investigators, research coordinators, clinicians, and collaborating study sites, the Staff Physician Researcher will assist with participant recruitment, screening, clinical evaluation, enrollment, follow-up assessments, regulatory compliance, data quality oversight, study operations, dissemination activities, and scholarly products. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant comparative effectiveness trial designed to improve treatment decisions and antibiotic stewardship for acute sinusitis.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  1. Clinical Trial Recruitment, Evaluation, and Enrollment
  • Support participant identification, screening, recruitment, and enrollment activities across Northern Virginia study sites.
  • Conduct or assist with clinical eligibility assessments and participant evaluations in accordance with study protocols.
  • Medically evaluate patients for study participation.
  • Assist clinicians and research staff with implementation of study procedures.
  • Support informed consent processes and participant education.
  • Facilitate participant progression through study phases and study visits.
  • Assist with adverse event monitoring and reporting.
  • Serve as a liaison between participating practices, clinicians, and the research team.
  • Study Operations and Site Management
    • Coordinate day-to-day study operations at Northern Virginia clinical sites.
    • Monitor site performance, recruitment targets, participant retention, and protocol adherence.
    • Assist with training and onboarding of study personnel.
    • Ensure timely completion of study activities and milestones.
    • Support communication among VCU, collaborating institutions, clinical sites, and the Data Coordinating Center.
    • Participate in investigator and study team meetings.
    • Assist with quality assurance and quality improvement activities.
  • Regulatory and Research Administration
    • Assist with preparation and maintenance of IRB submissions, continuing reviews, amendments, adverse event reports, and regulatory documentation.
    • Maintain study binders and essential regulatory records and study medications.
    • Ensure compliance with institutional, sponsor, IRB, and Good Clinical Practice requirements.
    • Assist with study reporting requirements and sponsor communications.
    • Support preparation of study monitoring materials and audit responses.
  • Data Collection, Evaluation, and Analysis
    • Assist with collection, verification, and review of study data.
    • Support data quality monitoring and resolution of data queries.
    • Participate in evaluation of study outcomes and operational metrics.
    • Assist investigators with data interpretation and preparation of reports.
  • Dissemination, Presentations, and Publications
    • Contribute to preparation of abstracts, posters, presentations, manuscripts, and other scholarly products.
    • Assist with dissemination of study findings to clinicians, researchers, health systems, and community stakeholders.
    • Participate in scientific meetings and research presentations as appropriate.
    • Support development of future research proposals and related studies.

    Qualifications:

    Minimum Qualifications

    • Board certification in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, or a related specialty.
    • Active Virginia Medical License.
    • Currently practicing in a participating study site.
    • Knowledge of human subjects research and clinical research regulations.
    • Experience participating in clinical research, quality improvement, or health services research projects.
    • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
    • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
    • Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a faculty member at VCU

    Preferred Qualifications

    • Prior experience coordinating or conducting clinical trials.
    • Experience with participant recruitment and retention in community-based research.
    • Experience with IRB submissions, regulatory compliance, and Good Clinical Practice.
    • Experience using REDCap, Epic, or other clinical research data systems.
    • Experience preparing presentations, posters, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.
    • Experience working with multi-site research collaborations.

    Salary Range: Commensurate with experience

    FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

    Flexible Work Arrangement: Other

    Rank: Open

    Tenure: Ineligible

    Months: 12

    Contact Name: Dr. Alex Krist Contact Email: alexander.krist@vcuhealth.org

    Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer


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