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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:

Research Associate in Biology

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


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Job description

The W.M. Keck Center for Cellular Imaging (KCCI), Department of Biology at the University of Virginia, invites applications for a post-doctoral Research Associate (Microscopy) position.
The incumbent will be developing a new optical microscopy and spectroscopy techniques to investigate cellular metabolism in live cells and animals. The Research Associate will be responsible for administrating and training the center users on various microscopy systems including wide-field, TIRF, confocal, multiphoton, two-photon in vivo imaging, FLIM, and FRET microscopy. The incumbent expected to have some experience in computer administration, FLIM, optical instrumentation development, and software code writing. The research associate should have an interest/ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with multidisciplinary investigators involved in the KCCI. Research Associate should have experience in preparing research articles in cellular metabolism studies to publish in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
The Keck Center for Cellular Imaging (KCCI) at UVA is an internationally known center in advanced microscopy imaging. KCCI is highly interactive with outstanding investigators across grounds including from School of Engineering, Arts & Sciences and School of Medicine; provides excellent training and teaching for graduate and undergraduate students on various microscopy techniques. Historical strengths of KCCI are development of advanced FRET and FLIM imaging systems, techniques and data analysis which are used to train the national and international scientists through annual hands training workshop on FRET, FLIM and metabolic imaging microscopy.
QUALIFICATIONS: A Ph.D. in Physics, Chemistry, Biophotonics, Engineering or a related discipline is required by the start date. Preference will be given to candidates proficient in design and development of a new optical instrumentation, FLIM, software development, especially with Java for ImageJ/Fiji, Python, LabVIEW, and MATLAB, and with experience in various fluorescence microscopy-imaging systems. Candidates must have effective oral and written communication skills.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and attach a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters.
Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on January 22, 2026 and the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.
This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for additional one-year increments, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
For questions regarding this position, please contact Ammasi Periasamy, Director of WM Keck Center for Cellular Imaging , at ap3t@virginia.edu
For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu
For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.
Job Profile
J0267 - Research Associate - 12 Month
Career Stream and Level
No Career Stream-No Level
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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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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