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Cognitive Science Phd Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA

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 ...

Devyantram

Lead Photonics Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

... Translate cognitive and AI requirements into physical implementations. • Co-design with the ... Required Qualifications • MS or PhD in Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science ...

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Cognitive Science Phd information

See Virginia salary details

$23.3K

$56.9K

$75.8K

How much do cognitive science phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 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.

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 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 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.

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.

Is a cognitive science PhD worth it?

A cognitive science PhD can be valuable for careers in research, academia, or specialized industry roles such as AI development or human-computer interaction. However, it requires significant time and financial investment, and job prospects often depend on research experience, interdisciplinary skills, and the ability to publish or present findings.

What careers with a cognitive science PhD?

A cognitive science PhD prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, human-computer interaction, user experience design, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, UX researchers, or in roles involving cognitive modeling and machine learning, utilizing skills in experimental design, programming, and statistical analysis.

What do you do with a PhD in cognitive science?

A PhD in cognitive science prepares individuals for research, teaching, and applied roles in academia, industry, or government. Graduates often work as researchers, data analysts, user experience designers, or in artificial intelligence development, utilizing skills in experimental design, programming, and data analysis. Career paths may also include consulting, policy advising, or roles in technology companies that focus on human cognition and behavior.

What are popular job titles related to Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Virginia?

For Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cognitive Science Phd jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Cognitive Science Phd job openings:

Cognitive Science Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cognitive Science Phd job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,921 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Research Scientist, Neuroradiology

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 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

209th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Division of Neuroradiology within the Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging at the University of Virginia (UVA) within the School of Medicine seeks applications for a Research Scientist. We are seeking applicants whose research interests center on using advanced brain MRI to better understand the structure and function of the human brain under both normal and pathologic situations. The Research Scientist will work with the Division Chief of Neuroradiology to broadly facilitate collaborative human brain MRI research between the Division of Neuroradiology and other Departments across Grounds at UVA. Research work will be largely conducted with independent judgment, while reporting outcomes to the Division Chief regularly. All candidates will be encouraged to develop their own research projects, including seeking extramural funding.
The tasks associated with these responsibilities may include:
  • Working with the Division Chief and other collaborators to better design and implement MRI approaches for ongoing and new research projects.
  • Train and supervise other personnel in the performance of advanced brain MRI data analyses
  • Intellectually engage with the UVA brain imaging community to foster new research directions and improve the quality of existing research
  • Analysis of large brain MRI data sets, including statistical testing
  • Write and submit peer-reviewed manuscripts. Manage the publication process of peer-reviewed manuscripts.
  • Present results at scientific conferences.
  • All candidates will be required to pursue extramural funding to perform independently developed research projects.

QUALIFICATIONS
A doctoral degree (or master's degree with significant experience) is required, preferably a PhD degree with dissertation work that utilizes human neuroimaging methods. Possible PhD fields could include (but are not limited to): neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Psychology or Data Science.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ability to process and integrate more than one type of advanced human brain MRI data (e.g. functional MRI, diffusion MRI, volumetric MRI, perfusion MRI, etc.) is required, as demonstrated by publication record.
  • Ability to perform high-throughput analyses on large data sets with a high-performance computing cluster is preferred.
  • Prior experience working with neuroimaging data from neurological or neurosurgical patient populations is preferred.
  • Recent postdoctoral research experience that integrates the analysis of advanced brain MRI is preferred.
  • Able to work independently and train junior lab personnel, who might include undergraduate students, medical students, graduate students and clinical residents/fellows.
  • Familiarity with commonly utilized neuroimaging research software (SPM, FSL, MRItrix, Freesurfer, etc.).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.
Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.
This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits .
Initial appointments and reappointments to these positions may be made in increments of one to three years, contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.
This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.
About UVA and the Community
To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Additional Requirements
Background checks, pre-employment health screenings, and drug screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
How to Apply
Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R0086322. Complete an application with the following documents:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Contact information for three professional references

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.
Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Reference Check Process
Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.
Contact
For questions about the application process, please contact Jeremy Brofft, Senior Academic Recruiter at xmf9ad@virginia.edu .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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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.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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