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Cognitive Science Phd Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research / Scientific The Halassa lab ( invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position ... The lab integrates state-of-the-art neural recording technologies, complex cognitive tasks, and ...

College of Science Department: Psychology Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories: Research ... Required Qualifications - PhD in psychology or a related field PhD awarded no more than four years ...

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Cognitive Science Phd information

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$23.3K

$56.9K

$75.8K

How much do cognitive science phd jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive science phd in Virginia is $56,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a PhD in cognitive science worth it?

A PhD in cognitive science can lead to careers in research, academia, and industry, often requiring strong analytical and programming skills. While it offers advanced knowledge and specialization, it typically involves several years of study and may result in competitive job markets, so its value depends on individual career goals and the field's demand.

What is the difference between Cognitive Science Phd vs Data Scientist?

AspectCognitive Science PhdData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Cognitive Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Computer Science, or related field; some roles prefer PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting
Industry UsageResearch, academia, AI development, cognitive modelingData analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning applications

While both roles involve analytical skills and data handling, a Cognitive Science Phd focuses on understanding human cognition, often in research or AI development, whereas a Data Scientist applies statistical and machine learning techniques to solve business problems across various industries.

What kind of jobs can I get with a cognitive science degree?

A cognitive science PhD prepares individuals for research, academia, and roles in human-computer interaction, user experience design, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. These positions often require strong analytical, programming, and experimental skills, and may involve working in tech companies, research institutions, or healthcare settings.

What is the highest paying job for a neuroscience PhD?

The highest paying jobs for neuroscience PhDs are often in industry roles such as pharmaceutical or biotech research directors, medical science liaisons, or executive positions in biotech companies, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced research skills, knowledge of drug development, and strong communication abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cognitive Science PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Science PhD, you need a strong interdisciplinary background in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy, typically supported by advanced research experience and a doctoral degree. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as Python, MATLAB, or R), neuroimaging software, and statistical modeling is commonly required. Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate across disciplines and convey complex ideas clearly. These skills are vital for driving innovative research, publishing impactful work, and contributing to advancements in understanding human cognition.

Does cognitive science pay well?

Cognitive science PhDs can earn competitive salaries, especially when working in research, industry, or applied settings such as technology or healthcare. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and the specific role, with advanced positions often offering higher compensation. Skills in data analysis, programming, and experimental design can also influence earning potential.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for Cognitive Science PhD students, and how do they impact research projects?

Cognitive Science PhD students frequently collaborate with researchers in fields such as psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy. These interdisciplinary teams enhance research by providing access to diverse methodologies, data sources, and theoretical perspectives. Collaborating across disciplines can lead to innovative approaches and more comprehensive findings, though it also requires strong communication and adaptability to integrate different research traditions. Such experiences are highly valued in both academia and industry, as they build versatile problem-solving skills and foster a collaborative mindset.

What is a Cognitive Science PhD?

A Cognitive Science PhD is a doctoral degree focused on the interdisciplinary study of the mind and intelligence. This field combines elements from psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, computer science, philosophy, and anthropology to understand how humans and other intelligent systems perceive, think, learn, and behave. Students in a Cognitive Science PhD program typically conduct original research, develop expertise across multiple disciplines, and prepare for careers in academia, industry, or government. The degree usually takes between 4 to 6 years to complete and culminates in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cognitive Science Phd jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cognitive Science Phd job openings:
Infographic showing various Cognitive Science Phd job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,921 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Open Rank Open Track Neurodegeneration Physician

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

205th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Department of Neurology seeks an open-rank faculty-level scientist with neurodegeneration or caregiver science expertise as part of a major University-wide investment in this area. The University of Virginia's 2030 plan recognizes Brain and Neuroscience as a major societal challenge and opportunity that draws on an existing strength. In partnership, the Provost and the Deans of various schools are making multiple, coordinated faculty recruitments to strengthen the community of neuroscientists across the University. In addition to enhancing ongoing research in the neurodegeneration/caregiver science space in the Department of Neurology, the successful recruit will also be involved in the broad University-wide initiative. Recruits will receive support from the Provost and their School Dean and will join the UVA Brain Institute and the broader neuroscience community. Areas of particular interest and strength include (but are not limited to) the discovery and characterization of early biomarkers of dementia, understanding how risk factors impact the onset of neurodegeneration, dementia, cognitive decline and caregiver health, and/or developing interventions to mitigate the onset of dementia or mitigate the negative impacts and cognitive and other health risks of caregiving.
The successful candidate will be an investigator with an MD, DO, PhD, MD PhD, or DO PhD, a record of research accomplishments demonstrating current achievements, and a strong ongoing innovative research program that can attract and sustain extramural funding. They will demonstrate the ability to facilitate connections between fundamental and applied scientists by directly linking findings from the bench to the bedside. They will be deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Clinicians will be expected to be board-eligible or board-certified and provide clinical care to adults within their specialty of neurology, neuropsychology, sleep or behavioral psychology.
The University of Virginia and affiliated UVAHealth form the premier institution for medical research and clinical care in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Virginia Alzheimer's Disease Center forms a nexus of research and scholarly activities as well as cross-discipline care for people with dementia and their caregivers. The faculty member will be welcomed into the highly collaborative environment of the University of Virginia and have ready access to several research-oriented schools and centers across the University of Virginia grounds, which provide a rich platform for shared discovery.
The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, VA, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and picturesque Shenandoah Valley, just 100 miles from Washington, DC. Our region boasts outstanding opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round, including hiking, water-based recreation, and skiing. Likewise, it is a short drive to Virginia Beach and other types of coastal recreation. Some of the finest restaurants and music are showcased on the Downtown Mall, an 8-block pedestrian walking mall. A regional airport serves our city, and travel by rail to cities throughout the eastern US is accomplished via a train station within walking distance of UVA. Charlottesville is routinely listed among the most desirable cities in which to live, raise a family and retire.
For additional information about this position, please contact the Search Committee Chair, Dr. Howard Goodkin, via email at hpg9v@uvahealth.org
This position will remain open until filled. This is an Exempt level, benefited position. For questions about the position or the application process, please contact Amanda Pringle at ALP8Z@uvahealth.org.
The successful candidate will pass a background check and pre-employment health screening.
Qualifications
Candidates must have an MD, DO, PhD, MD/PhD, or DO/PhD.
Clinicians will be expected to be board-eligible or board-certified and provide clinical care to adults within their specialty of neurology, neuropsychology, sleep or behavioral psychology.
Application Instructions
Complete an application online with the following documents:
• Cover letter
• CV/resume
• Statement of contributions or potential contributions to the UVA Health ASPIRE values.
• Professional reference list

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

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Year founded

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