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Lead Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Angelo State University

Research Assistant

San Angelo, TX · On-site

$1.6K/wk

Position Details Position Information Job Title Research Assistant Position Type Student Division ... Academic and/or work experience related to the field of research, as defined by the supervisor/lead ...

carnegiescience

Project Research Assistant

Pasadena, CA · On-site

PROJECT RESEARCH ASSISTANT Position Summary: Collaborate with more senior researchers on the design ... Academic and/or work experience related to the field of research, as defined by the supervisor/lead ...

University of Chicago Library

Research Assistant

Gordon, GA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

The Research Assistant will work collaboratively with the principal investigators, fellows ... May serve as a lead research specialist. * Presenting research findings at staff meetings, seminars ...

carnegiescience

Project Research Assistant

Pasadena, CA · On-site

PROJECT RESEARCH ASSISTANT Position Summary: Collaborate with more senior researchers on the design ... Academic and/or work experience related to the field of research, as defined by the supervisor/lead ...

Mercer University

Research Assistant I/II/III

Columbus, GA

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Research Assistant III: Requires a bachelor's degree and three years of related research experience, of which some of that time must be in a lead role, or a master's degree and one year of relevant ...

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$18K

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How much do lead research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead research assistant in the United States is $47,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Research Assistant, you need a solid background in research methodologies, data analysis, and relevant field expertise, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), database management systems, and compliance with research ethics certifications like CITI are typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication help in coordinating teams and ensuring research quality. These skills are crucial for producing reliable results, maintaining project timelines, and fostering collaboration within research teams.

What are Lead Research Assistants?

Lead Research Assistants are experienced professionals who oversee and coordinate the activities of research teams or projects within academic, clinical, or industrial settings. They are responsible for managing data collection, ensuring adherence to research protocols, supervising junior research staff, and often assisting in the analysis and dissemination of findings. Their role bridges the gap between principal investigators and research assistants, helping to maintain the quality and integrity of research operations.

What is the difference between Lead Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectLead Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; some roles prefer or require a master'sBachelor's or master's degree; often more specialized
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, fieldwork, or office settings within research projectsResearch labs, academic institutions, or industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, healthcare, and industryAcademic, government, and private sector research
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and career progressionComparing research roles, qualifications, and job scope

The Lead Research Assistant typically supports research projects by collecting and analyzing data, often supervising other assistants. Research Associates usually have more specialized expertise, take on more independent research tasks, and may be involved in designing studies. Both roles are common in academic and industry research settings, but the Lead Research Assistant often acts as a team leader within the research support staff.

How does a Lead Research Assistant typically collaborate with principal investigators and other team members during a research project?

As a Lead Research Assistant, you act as a key liaison between the principal investigator (PI), other research staff, and sometimes external collaborators. You will coordinate the daily activities of the research team, ensure protocols are followed, and help troubleshoot any issues that arise. Regular meetings with the PI are common to discuss progress, data integrity, and next steps. Additionally, you may mentor junior assistants, delegate tasks, and facilitate communication to keep the project on track. This collaborative environment fosters both leadership development and hands-on research experience.
What cities are hiring for Lead Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Lead Research Assistant job openings:
Research Assistant Professor

Research Assistant Professor

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Virginia Tech rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

216th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant Professor

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536192
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: Greater Washington, D.C Area
Department: Institute for Advanced Computing
Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Categories: Engineering, Research / Scientific

Job Description

Applications are invited for a full-time Research Assistant Professor position within the Institute for Advanced Computing (IAC) located at Virginia Tech's Academic Building One in the Washington DC metro.
The Research Assistant Professor will conduct and help lead research in next-generation wireless systems, mobile distributed MIMO, AI-enabled wireless networking, and integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) for 5G/6G and beyond. The position will support federally funded research initiatives, including projects supported by the FutureG Office, U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) focused on future wireless systems and network intelligence.
The successful candidate will develop innovative algorithms, system architectures, and experimental platforms to advance intelligent wireless networks and spectrum management for mobile distributed MIMO. The Research Assistant Professor will collaborate with faculty members, graduate students, and external partners from academia, industry, and government agencies. Responsibilities may include developing research proposals, contributing to externally funded research programs, mentoring graduate students, and supporting the coordination of collaborative research projects.
The position provides opportunities to lead interdisciplinary research initiatives and publish in leading journals and conferences.
The position is based at the Virginia Tech's Academic Building One in the greater Washington, D.C. area and offers opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and government research organizations.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated research expertise in wireless communications, networking systems, machine learning for networking, or related areas.
Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant conferences or journals.
Experience conducting prototype of SDR-based distributed MIMO testbed.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in 5G/6G wireless systems, spectrum sharing, or wireless network optimization.
Experience developing research proposals or participating in externally funded research projects.
Experience mentoring graduate or undergraduate students.
Experience collaborating with industry or government research partners.
Experience working on large-scale federally funded research projects.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

4/24/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.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, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Stuart Cline at stuart90@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 20, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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