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Experimental Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ATCC

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Design and conduct experimental research and investigations to explore function, formation, and structure in support of scientific discovery and development. Initiate, direct, and execute scientific ...

ATCC

Senior Scientist

Manassas, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Design and conduct experimental research and investigations to explore function, formation, and structure in support of scientific discovery and development. Initiate, direct, and execute scientific ...

Virginia Tech

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Our lab focuses on the development of antimicrobial peptides from benchtop experiments to clinical research. This position will be in charge of maintaining the laboratory and instrumentation for ...

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Experimental Research information

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$11

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How much do experimental research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for experimental research in Virginia is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is experimental research?

An Experimental Research job involves designing, conducting, and analyzing controlled experiments to test hypotheses and gather empirical data. Researchers in this role work in various fields, including science, psychology, engineering, and social sciences, to explore cause-and-effect relationships. They develop methodologies, control variables, and use statistical tools to interpret findings. The goal is to generate insights that advance knowledge, improve processes, or develop new technologies and solutions.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in experimental research?

A typical day in Experimental Research often involves designing and conducting experiments, recording and analyzing data, and collaborating closely with other scientists or research staff. You may also spend time preparing reports, presenting findings, and reviewing scientific literature to inform ongoing projects. The work environment can vary, but it's common to balance time between laboratory settings and desk-based analysis or documentation tasks. Teamwork is essential, as projects often require coordinated efforts with colleagues from different specialties. This dynamic routine keeps the role engaging and supports continuous learning and professional development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in experimental research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Experimental Research, you need a strong background in scientific methods, data analysis, and experimental design, usually supported by a relevant degree in science or engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as SPSS or R), and compliance with safety and ethical standards is commonly expected. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success. These abilities ensure accurate, reliable results and meaningful collaboration within research teams.

What does experimental research do?

Experimental research involves conducting controlled studies to test hypotheses and determine cause-and-effect relationships. It typically requires designing experiments, collecting data, and analyzing results using statistical tools to validate findings. Professionals in this field often work in laboratories or research settings and may need knowledge of research methodologies and data analysis software.

What are popular job titles related to Experimental Research jobs in Virginia?

For Experimental Research jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Experimental Research jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Experimental Research jobs in Virginia are:

Experimental Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Experimental Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,825 per year, or $22 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Contemplative Research Fellow

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 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

213th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Contemplative Research Fellows are Postdoctoral Research Associates who specialize in the investigation of contemplative practices and experiences. This position will possess demonstrated expertise in the Humanities as it relates to methods in the interdisciplinary contemplative sciences.
The Contemplative Sciences Center (CSC) is seeking applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate, a Contemplative Research Fellow who is trained in the Humanities to join ongoing and emerging research in the CSC's CIRCL, Contemplative Innovation + Research Co-Lab . The CIRCL is a collaboratory for experimental research homed in the Contemplative Commons that facilitates diverse disciplinary expertise to study a broad spectrum of topics related to how contemplative practices operate in human bodies, minds, cultures, and ecologies. Research in the CIRCL co-lab investigates how contemplation intersects with themes of nature, technology, and the arts. Though studies involve a range of populations and contexts, a focus is how contemplation can enhance wellbeing among young adults. Experimental studies currently include meditation in different environmental exposures, immersive technologies of light and sound, Virtual Reality, and lucid dreaming, among other areas.
CSC's Contemplative Research Fellow postdoctoral program is designed to train and mentor emerging scholars and scientists in the transdisciplinary study of contemplation to prepare the next generation of researchers, grow expertise at the University of Virginia, and contribute to the advancement of contemplative knowledge and know-how. The Fellow will work as an integral member of the CIRCL co-lab, join a consortium of researchers from across the University and around the world, and conduct research and scholarship in their specialized area of humanistic inquiry as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary research team of faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate research assistants. Fellows receive mentorship from faculty, professional training in transdisciplinary methods, experience in contemplative research design, and administrative support.
Research Focus
  • Fellows are expected to work on experimental studies in the CIRCL as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
  • Depending on priorities and experience, Fellows will develop a research focus in their area of specialization, contribute to collaborative research, and take on varying degrees of managing a research project.
  • Areas of study include, but are not limited to, investigations of attention, mind-wandering, spontaneity, imagination, mental imagery simulation, enhanced cognition, somatic awareness, multisensory experiences, emotional regulation, prosocial affect, psychological flexibility, psychedelics, ecological immersion, and nondual awareness.

Minimum Requirements/Eligibility
  • Applicants must have completed or be in the process of completing a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or related) in the Humanities (Religious Studies/Philosophy/Cultural Psychology or relevant field) by the start date of the fellowship or have received their doctorate within 5-years prior to their start date.

Key Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team.
  • Co-author scholarship related to CIRCL research.
  • Participate in regular CIRCL meetings and CSC community activities.
  • Engage with an interdisciplinary cohort of Postdoctoral Research Associates at UVA.
  • Other responsibilities to be detailed that align with the fellowship.

Desired Skills and Experience
  • Ability to think critically, comparatively, and analytically about issues related to historical and contemporary contemplative practices.
  • Training in humanistic methodologies, such as phenomenological, text critical, philosophical, historical, ethnographic, psychological, cross-cultural methods.
  • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team with diverse expertise.
  • Ability to problem solve and innovate.
  • Previous experience conducting interdisciplinary experimental research on contemplative practice/s is a plus, not required.
  • Training in phenomenological interview method/s is a plus, not required.
  • Previous experience coordinating research is a plus, not required.
  • Excellent written communication skills. Ability to work with co-authors to publish.
  • Collaborative. Organized. Dependable. Responsive. Attentive to detail.

Time Period
  • The fellowship is three one-year renewable appointments . Each year is contingent on a successful review by the supervisor, which will be conducted during the ninth month of their appointment. Criteria of evaluation include: (i) Rigor of research, (ii) Ability to collaborate and work efficiently, and (iii) Commitment to shared values.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Fellows are classified as Postdoctoral Research Associates at the University and will receive a competitive salary in the range of $55,000-$65,000 along with the benefits awarded for a Postdoctoral Research Associate by UVA.
  • Fellows will receive $5,000 per year for conferences and professional development.
  • Employment is contingent on successful completion of background check.

How to Apply
Applicants must complete an application and submit the following on the UVA Job Board :
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Cover letter (2-pages max) that describes the candidate's research focus and interests, and how their training aligns with the mission of CSC's CIRCL research.
  • 3 professional references upon request.

Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Contact Michael Sheehy, Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center, sheehy@virginia.edu for questions about the position. For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Russo , Senior Academic Recruiter.
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.
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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