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Biological Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534078 Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time ... Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related field Preferred Qualifications Experience with ...

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533999 Work type: Staff Senior ... Preferred Qualifications Degree or coursework in biosciences, neuroscience, biology, or a related ...

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535375 Work type: Staff Senior ... biology, psychology, or a related field Experience working in a professional research setting ...

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Biological Research Assistant information

What is a biological research assistant?

Biological Research Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers in laboratory and field settings by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining lab equipment. They often help prepare biological samples, record results, and ensure proper documentation of experiments. Their work is crucial for advancing research in areas such as genetics, microbiology, ecology, and medicine. Typically, they work under the supervision of senior researchers or principal investigators, contributing to scientific discoveries and innovations.

What does a biological research assistant do?

As a Biological Research Assistant, your daily activities often include preparing laboratory materials, conducting experiments under the supervision of lead scientists, and recording or analyzing data. You’ll work closely with other team members such as researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes graduate students, facilitating smooth project workflows. Collaboration is key, particularly when troubleshooting experiments or ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Regular participation in team meetings to discuss findings and share progress is also common, which helps build communication and project management skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biological research assistant?

To thrive as a Biological Research Assistant, you need a solid background in biology or related sciences, laboratory experience, and at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS or Excel), and techniques like PCR or microscopy is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, reliable experimental results, and smooth collaboration within research teams.

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

AspectBiological Research AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in biology or related fieldAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, biotech companiesClinical labs, research facilities, industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech firmsHospitals, diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, career pathsTechnical duties, lab work specifics

The Biological Research Assistant typically holds a bachelor's degree and engages in research activities within academic or biotech settings. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians often have an associate's degree or certification and focus on technical lab tasks in clinical or industrial environments. Both roles support scientific work but differ mainly in educational requirements and work focus.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Biological Research Assistant jobs in Virginia?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Biological Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


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Job description

Research Assistant
Job no: 534078
Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time
Senior management: College of Veterinary Medicine
Department: Biomedical Science
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
Job Description
The Gilbertie Lab at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine is seeking a Research Assistant to complete general laboratory operations and aid in graduate students' projects. Our lab focuses on the development of antimicrobial peptides from benchtop experiments to clinical research. This position will be in charge of maintaining the laboratory and instrumentation for these projects. In addition, this position will provide graduate student experimental support, be in charge of laboratory organization and cleanliness, and be in charge of ordering laboratory supplies.
Required Qualifications
• Must be flexible and enjoy fast-paced research environment
• Must be an effective communicator and understand English as a primary language
• Must have U.S. citizenship (cannot support or sponsor working visas)
• Must have experience working in a microbiology laboratory and with BSL-2 pathogens
• Must have experience with protein/peptide separation
• Must have experience in drug discovery
• BS in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related field
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with microfiltration, depth filtration, and ultrafiltration using tangential flow filtration equipment
• Experience with chromatography (both HPLC and FPLC)
• Experience with prepping samples for mass spectrometry and analyzing proteomics experiments
• Experience with lyophilization of peptides
• Correct lab notebook and record keeping
• Adaptability managing multiple projects at the same time
• Handling veterinary species such as dogs, cats, horses, cattle and pigs
• Experience with large animal infectious disease models (no rodent only experience)
• MS in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field
Pay Band
3; Wage
Overtime Status
Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Wage: starting at $18.00 an hour
Hours per week
Average 29, or as needed
Review Date
3/15/2026
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 institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 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 Dr. Jessica Gilbertie at jmg1329@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: February 23, 2026
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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