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Doctoral Research Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Doctoral Research Associate information

What is a doctoral research associate?

Doctoral Research Associates are individuals who typically hold a doctoral degree or are advanced doctoral candidates engaged in academic research, often within universities or research institutes. They contribute to research projects by designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and publishing findings. Their work supports the advancement of knowledge in their field and may involve collaboration with faculty, students, and external partners. Doctoral Research Associates often gain valuable experience that prepares them for future roles in academia, industry, or government research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a doctoral research associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Doctoral Research Associate, you need advanced research skills, subject-matter expertise, and a doctoral degree or equivalent research experience. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory equipment, and academic publication tools is typically required. Exceptional critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication are valuable soft skills for this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing high-quality research, contributing to scholarly knowledge, and collaborating effectively in academic or scientific environments.

What are the typical collaborative opportunities for a doctoral research associate within an academic research team?

As a Doctoral Research Associate, you’ll frequently collaborate with faculty members, fellow researchers, and sometimes even external partners such as industry professionals or other academic institutions. These collaborations often involve co-authoring research papers, participating in group meetings to discuss project progress, and contributing to grant writing or conference presentations. Working closely with a diverse team not only enhances your research skills but also helps build a strong professional network, which can be invaluable for future career advancement in academia or industry.

What is the difference between Doctoral Research Associate vs Postdoctoral Research Fellow?

AspectDoctoral Research AssociatePostdoctoral Research Fellow
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree or near completionDoctoral degree completed
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutionsResearch labs, academic institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutesUniversities, research institutes
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Doctoral Research Associate is typically pursuing their doctoral degree or has recently started, focusing on ongoing research projects. In contrast, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow has already completed their PhD and is engaged in advanced research to deepen expertise and publish work. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Postdoctoral Fellow position usually involves more independence and specialization.

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Doctoral Research Associate jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Doctoral Research Associate job openings:

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Non Tenure Track, F1019A)

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Old Dominion University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Old Dominion University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Non Tenure Track, F1019A)
Department
BIOELECTRONICS
Position Number
F1019A
Job Description
The Center for Bioelectronics at Old Dominion University is seeking an outstanding candidate for a post-doctoral research associate position with a focus on biosensor & bioelectronics development and organic materials integration. This position is a non-permanent appointment, renewable each year up to a max of two years.
The candidate will make key contributions to the area of molecular biology and mentoring students. The individual will be responsible for designing, documenting, and implementing molecular biology techniques pertaining to tissue engineering, "smart" biomaterials, cell-based assays, western blotting, qPCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry. In addition, the qualified individual will play a key role in evaluating aging and compatibility of novel materials for implantable and wearable applications in broad collaboration with other researchers in the lab. Finally, the candidate is expected to serve as a mentor for technicians and students. Applicants with hands-on-experience with 3D cell and tumor mouse models, primary cell isolation and characterization are especially encouraged to apply.
Position Type
FullTime
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Minimum required education and/or special licenses, registrations, trainings, or certifications
A Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials/Polymer Science, Chemistry, Materials Engineering, or a related field is required.
Minimum required level and type of experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities
  1. Deep technical skills and knowledge of molecular biology and biochemisry.
  2. Outstanding written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by a strong academic publication record and presentations at national conferences in a specific technical area.
  3. Ability to work on multiple projects with established deliverables, milestones, timelines and requirements.
  4. Ability to work and communicate effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team of biologist, engineers, chemists, materials scientists, etc.
  5. A solid background in principles of molecular biology and biochemistry processes.
  6. Experience with 2D and 3D cell culture techniques.
  7. Understand the basic processing, properties and mechanics of nanomaterials and soft materials.
  8. Experience with technical writing in the form of manuscripts, reports, standard operating procedures, and other documentation related to research, process development and associated specifications.
  9. Experience in working with Biosafety Level-2 (BSL-2), proficiency in standard cell- and molecular-biological techniques, and real-time imaging of cell and tissue samples.

Preferred Qualifications
Previous postdoctoral research experience preferred.
Conditions of Employment
N/A
Location
Norfolk, VA
Job Open Date
09/11/2026
Application Review Date
09/30/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply online at https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/27204a complete application will include;
  1. A letter of interest expressing the candidate's interest in the position and how their qualifications meet the posted requirements.
  2. A curriculum vitae.
  3. A diversity/inclusion statement.
  4. Contact information for three professional references (who will be contacted via the application system upon submitting your application to submit a recommendation letter).

Applications will be reviewed starting on September 30, 2026and continue until the position is filled.
Telework Friendly
No
Reasonable Accommodation Request
If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at (757)683-3141.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or © consistent with contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
About the College
https://odu.edu/cbe
About the Department
https://odu.edu/cbe

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