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Medical Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Research Associate

Blacksburg, VA

This is an excellent position for candidates with previous research lab management experience who wish to pursue a career in medical research. Required Qualifications Graduate degree in biology ...

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All JobsMedical Research JobsMedical Research Jobs in Virginia

Medical Research information

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$37.2K

$52.9K

$58K

How much do medical research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical research in Virginia is $52,869.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is medical research?

Medical research is the scientific study conducted to improve knowledge about health, diseases, treatments, and medical procedures. It involves clinical trials, laboratory experiments, and population studies to discover new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat illnesses. Medical research can lead to the development of new medications, therapies, and medical devices, ultimately helping to improve patient care and public health. Researchers in this field often work in hospitals, universities, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies.

What are medical research jobs?

Medical research jobs entail conducting research for the purpose of improving overall human health and saving lives. This is done by investigating diseases and possible methods of prevention and treatment, holding clinical trials using volunteer individuals or groups, and interpreting gathered data to prove or disprove hypotheses. Clinical research coordinators direct trials and work under a researcher or investigator. Clinical trial managers select and monitor the performance of clinical studies and products, and help train and hire CROs and study vendors. Other medical research jobs include clinical lab technicians and even microbiologists.

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

To thrive in Medical Research, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. and familiarity with research methodologies. Proficiency with statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, and compliance with regulatory standards like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is crucial. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills help researchers design robust studies and convey findings effectively. These competencies ensure research validity, regulatory compliance, and the advancement of medical knowledge to improve healthcare outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in medical research, and how can they be addressed?

Medical research professionals often encounter challenges such as securing funding, managing complex regulatory requirements, and balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines. Adapting to rapidly evolving scientific methods and staying current with ethical guidelines are also essential. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong project management skills, collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, and actively seeking mentorship and professional development opportunities within the research community.

What is the difference between Medical Research vs Clinical Research?

AspectMedical ResearchClinical Research
CredentialsTypically requires degrees in medicine, biology, or related fields; certifications varyRequires degrees in health sciences, nursing, or related fields; often involves clinical trial certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, universitiesHospitals, clinics, clinical trial sites
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, biotech companiesPharmaceutical companies, hospitals, research organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding basic scientific discoveries, lab-based workPatient-focused studies, drug testing, clinical trial processes

Medical Research involves studying diseases, treatments, and biological processes primarily in laboratory settings. Clinical Research focuses on testing new treatments and drugs directly with patients through clinical trials. While both roles aim to improve healthcare, Medical Research is more lab-oriented, whereas Clinical Research is patient-centered and involves real-world testing.

How to work as a medical researcher?

To work as a medical researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a health-related field is required, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or doctoral degree such as a Ph.D. or M.D. Additionally, skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research tools are essential, along with experience in clinical or laboratory settings. Certification or training in research ethics and good clinical practice can also enhance employment prospects.

What is a career in medical research?

A career in medical research involves studying diseases, treatments, and health conditions to develop new medical knowledge and improve patient care. Professionals in this field often work in laboratories or clinical settings, utilizing skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and scientific communication, and may require advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D.
More about Medical Research jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Medical Research jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Medical Research job openings:

Medical Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,869 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Anomalous Health Incidents Medical Research

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Arlington, VA • On-site

$180K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Overview
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.
Responsibilities
Working on the Department of War critical technology areas offers a dynamic, fast-paced environment at the forefront of advancing national defense capabilities in areas such as Quantum and Battlefield Information Dominance, Applied AI, Biomanufacturing, and more. Your role will involve close interaction with senior DoW leaders and stakeholders across the RDT&E community. You will have the opportunity to contribute to decision-making processes impacting the Department's most critical modernization efforts. This project requires a high level of professionalism and a commitment to shaping the future of national security capabilities.
As a Anomalous Health Incidents Medical Research supporting the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering within the Anomalous Health Incidents portfolio, you will have the opportunity to do the following:
  • Support the office leadership as a subject matter expert in medical research, bioeffects analysis, human performance, and advanced scientific assessments.
  • Provide specialized expertise in medical research.
  • Advise senior DoW leadership on strategic direction, technology modernization priorities, and emerging capability gaps relevant to the Anomalous Health Incidents portfolio.
  • Develop technology roadmaps, strategic assessments, presentations, and executive-level products to support modernization initiatives and investment planning.
  • Coordinate and engage with the RDT&E community including government laboratories, industry, academia, FFRDCs, UARCs, and international partners.
  • Analyze and track technical programs across the Department; assist in technical evaluations, requirements development, and transition planning.
  • Prepare briefings, reports, white papers, and other business and technical products in support of senior leadership decision-making.

Qualifications
  • 10 years of experience in the Scientific, Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation sector for Industry, Academia, or Government relevant to the technical focus of the applicable office.
  • Master's degree with 7 years of experience in a relevant hard science or engineering discipline (e.g., Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science); a Bachelor's degree and 10 years of experience can be substituted for a Master's degree.
  • Demonstrated expertise in medical research- thomas thomou.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting the DoW RDT&E community and working with senior technical and acquisition stakeholders.
  • Must have a current and active TS/SCI clearance; prior SAP experience is highly preferred.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required for the purposes of obtaining/holding a U.S. security clearance.

Pay Transparency Statement
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $180,000.00/Yr. - USD $205,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
EEO Statement
EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status

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