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Entry Level Research Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ICF

Research Associate, Social Marketing

Reston, VA · On-site

This entry-level position is ideal for someone who is starting a career in mixed methods (i.e ... Knowledge of behavioral science or behavior change principles and their application to ...

Worky

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science ... Internship, research, co‑op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ...

New

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science ... Internship, research, co-op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ...

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science ... Internship, research, co-op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ...

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science ... Internship, research, co‑op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ...

New

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science ... Internship, research, co-op, hackathon, or capstone project experience related to software ...

New

Augur Consulting

Entry-Level Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

Analysts collaborate with cross functional experts and conduct research to gather inputs, perform ... A Bachelor's degree is required, with a preference for quantitative science or business disciplines ...

Virginia Tech

Research Accountant

Blacksburg, VA

$60K - $70K/yr

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 ...

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Entry Level Research Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$129K

$172.5K

How much do entry level research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research scientist in Virginia is $129,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,600.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level research scientist do?

An entry level research scientist assists in designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments under the supervision of senior scientists. They may collect and interpret data, maintain laboratory equipment, and help prepare reports or publications. Their work is vital for supporting ongoing research projects and gaining foundational experience in scientific methods and procedures. Entry level research scientists often work in fields such as biology, chemistry, or engineering, and their tasks may vary depending on the specific area of research.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level research scientists during their first year?

Entry level research scientists often encounter challenges such as adjusting to the fast-paced and sometimes ambiguous nature of research projects, mastering new laboratory techniques, and learning to interpret complex data. Collaborating effectively with senior researchers and multidisciplinary teams can also require strong communication skills. Additionally, balancing multiple tasks—such as conducting experiments, analyzing results, and preparing reports—requires effective time management and adaptability as you build experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Research Scientist, you need a solid academic background in a scientific discipline, strong analytical skills, and experience with laboratory techniques, usually supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as R or Python), laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is often required. Attention to detail, curiosity, effective teamwork, and strong written and verbal communication skills help distinguish candidates in this field. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate research results, maintaining safe lab environments, and contributing effectively to scientific discovery and collaboration.

What is the difference between Entry Level Research Scientist vs Research Associate?

CriteriaEntry Level Research ScientistResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's, often with some research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesLaboratories, research teams
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharmaAcademic labs, industry research divisions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Research Scientists and Research Associates often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers; 'Research Associate' may imply slightly more experience or specific roles, but both positions typically involve conducting experiments, data analysis, and supporting research projects in laboratory settings.

How to become an entry level research scientist with no experience?

To become an entry level research scientist with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant bachelor's degree in a scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Gaining practical skills through internships, laboratory coursework, or research assistant positions can improve your prospects, and developing proficiency with research tools and data analysis software is beneficial.
More about Entry Level Research Scientist jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Research Scientist jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Research Scientist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Research Scientist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Research Scientist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Research Scientist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Research Scientist job openings:

Entry Level Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Research Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,001 per year, or $62 per hour.

Research Associate, Social Marketing

ICF International, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Our strategic health communications and social marketing work tackles some of society's greatest challenges and drives audiences to make positive attitudinal and behavioral changes.
A growing research team needs a self-starter to support formative, process, and summative evaluations that guide the planning, implementation, and revision of national health communications and social marketing campaigns. This entry-level position is ideal for someone who is starting a career in mixed methods (i.e., qualitative and quantitative) research and likes to support multiple projects.
We seek to hire a Research Associate to support formative, process, and summative evaluations that guide the planning, implementation, and revision of national health communications and social marketing efforts.
As a Research Associate, you will:
  • Help develop recruitment and data collection materials (e.g., format surveys or interview guides).
  • Support sampling (e.g., search for sources in EBSCO, Google Scholar, and other portals; schedule individual or group interviews with potential participants; distribute survey invitations).
  • Assist with data collection (e.g., abstract information from the sources, take notes during individual or group discussions).
  • Enter data using software such as Microsoft Excel.
  • Support data analysis (e.g., code text using software such as NVivo or MaxQDA).
  • Assist with reporting (e.g., create and format tables and graphs using software such as Microsoft Excel, Power BI, Looker Studio or PowerPoint, manage reference lists using software such as EndNote).
  • Coordinate purchasing, subcontracting, and consulting requisitions by obtaining and comparing vendor and consultant quotes, establishing suitable justifications, developing or modifying forms, and processing payments.

As a Research Associate, you will have:
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in public health, the social sciences, marketing or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in social science research or marketing analytics to include experience conducting qualitative and/or quantitative research, including research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation

Professional Skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, and administrative skills
  • Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and work under strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • High level of attention to detail
  • High level of comfort with learning new skills and/or working with unfamiliar topic areas
  • Strong self-starting and self-motivation skills

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's degree in public health, social or behavioral sciences, marketing, or a related field
  • 2+ years of experience in social science research, market research, or marketing analytics
  • Knowledge of behavioral science or behavior change principles and their application to communications, programs, or interventions
  • Experience with human-centered design, Design Thinking, user-centered design, or similar approaches to understanding audience needs
  • Fluent in Spanish

Bot and Third-Party Applications
Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration. Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration. Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contact Candidateaccommodation@icf.com for assistance.
Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$61,232.00 - $104,094.00
Nationwide Remote Office (US99)

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