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Phd Graduate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Graduate Engagement Strategist (GES) develops and manages relationships with a portfolio of PhD students within the IHS network. Reporting to the Associate Director of Intellectual Talent ...

$64K - $76K/yr

We prefer candidates who are about to graduate with PhD or MD/PhD degree or have graduated within the last 12 months. A track record of excellent first author publication during PhD training is ...

$64K - $76K/yr

We prefer candidates who are about to graduate with PhD or MD/PhD degree or have graduated within the last 12 months. A track record of excellent first author publication during PhD training is ...

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Phd Graduate information

What is a PhD graduate?

PhD graduates are individuals who have completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, which is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most fields. They have demonstrated advanced knowledge and original research in their area of study, often culminating in a dissertation or thesis. PhD graduates are qualified for careers in academia, research, industry, and leadership roles that require critical thinking and specialized expertise.

What types of career paths are available to recent PhD graduates outside academia?

Recent PhD graduates have a wide range of career options beyond traditional academic roles. Common paths include research and development positions in industry, data science, consulting, policy analysis, and roles in government or non-profit organizations. Many companies value the analytical, project management, and problem-solving skills developed during doctoral studies. Networking, internships, and leveraging transferable skills are key strategies for transitioning into these sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Graduate, you need advanced research skills, subject-matter expertise, and a doctoral degree in your field. Familiarity with data analysis software, academic publishing platforms, and citation management systems is typically required. Strong critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication help distinguish successful graduates in academic or industry roles. These skills are essential for contributing original knowledge, solving complex problems, and collaborating effectively in research and professional environments.

What is the difference between Phd Graduate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd GraduateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD degree, specialized research experienceTypically PhD, with additional experience in specific research areas
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, universitiesCorporate R&D labs, industry research teams
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, research institutesPrivate companies, biotech, tech firms, pharmaceuticals
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Phd Graduates and Research Scientists hold advanced research credentials, Phd Graduates often focus on academic or early-career research roles, whereas Research Scientists typically work in industry settings with more applied research responsibilities. The transition from Phd Graduate to Research Scientist involves gaining industry experience and applying research skills in commercial environments.

How much money do PhD graduates make?

PhD graduates often earn higher salaries than those with only a master's or bachelor's degree, with median annual wages typically ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000 depending on the field, industry, and experience. Careers in research, academia, or specialized industries like engineering or healthcare tend to offer higher compensation for PhD holders.

Is a PhD graduate worth it anymore?

A PhD graduate can have strong career prospects in academia, research, and specialized industries, but the value depends on the field and career goals. While a PhD can lead to higher-level positions and expertise, it often requires significant time and financial investment, and job market competitiveness varies by discipline. Skills such as research, data analysis, and critical thinking are essential for success in roles requiring a PhD.

What jobs can I get after a Phd Graduate?

A PhD graduate can pursue careers in academia as a university professor or researcher, or work in industry as a data scientist, research scientist, or specialized engineer. They often find roles in government agencies, think tanks, or as consultants, leveraging their advanced research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

What jobs do PhD graduates get?

PhD graduates often pursue careers in academia as university professors or researchers, but they also find roles in industry such as data scientists, research scientists, policy analysts, and consultants. Many leverage their specialized knowledge, research skills, and advanced analytical tools to work in government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Graduate jobs in Virginia?

For Phd Graduate jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Graduate jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Graduate job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Graduate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

PhD Plus Graduate Student Intern, Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs

The University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 19 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

209th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of Virginia (UVA) Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs (OGPA) offers a collaborative and engaging learning atmosphere in which to work. OGPA is dedicated to creating a University-wide focus on graduate education and postdoctoral training by establishing good communication and working relationships with schools, departments, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers. We believe successful graduate and postdoctoral experiences rely on high-quality faculty, competitive financial support, and opportunities for professional and career development. To learn more about our office, please visit us at: https://gradstudies.virginia.edu/.
The PhD Plus program is a University-wide initiative to prepare graduate students and postdoctoral scholars across all disciplines for long-term career success. Our goal is to enable versatile academics who are deeply engaged with society's needs to become influential professionals in every sector and field. To learn more about the program, visit https://phdplus.virginia.edu/.
Specific responsibilities:
The Graduate Student Interns will support PhD Plus and provide assistance to UVA graduate students and postdoctoral scholars by promoting career and professional development activities available through PhD Plus and its partners. For the 2026-2027 academic year, PhD Plus is seeking two interns to support the PhD Plus team by assisting with 1) a programmatic assessment, and 2) marketing and online content management. Depending on the candidates' experience, skills, and interests, the selected interns may contribute equally to both of these priorities (described in more detail below) or primarily focus their effort on activities related to one of these priorities.
To support the program's ongoing assessment goals, we are seeking interns who can directly contribute to data collection, analysis, and reporting of data collected on program participation and assessment (i.e., attendance, pre- and post-survey analysis, career outcomes). This work will include collating these data and assisting with report creation, preparing files to be uploaded to an existing database, issuing digital badges, and more. The data analysis will also include assessing and reporting usage data by department and graduate school, as well as postdocs engaged in PhD Plus programs. To support and expand upon the program's existing email and social media marketing, we are seeking interns who can support the development of promotional and marketing materials (i.e., flyers, graphics, social media posts), and directly contribute to creating and updating digital content on the PhD Plus website, social media accounts, and newsletter emails.
In addition to the activities above, the selected interns will also learn to use Drupal, a web content management system, in order to update PhD Plus webpages, create event pages, and help manage online content. They will also assist in coordinating and setting up PhD Plus events, supporting PhD Plus staff, and periodically representing the program at networking and tabling events across Grounds.
Special consideration will be given to applicants with demonstrated interest in career advising and professional development programming, and/or the career outcomes of graduate students and postdocs. Previous experience in providing services, writing and editing, data collection and analysis, working with large databases, graphic design, social media marketing, and/or web content management is preferred.
Expectations:
In addition to the responsibilities outlined above, the Graduate Student Intern will be expected to:
  • Be enrolled full-time as a graduate student at UVA throughout the time in the position
  • Maintain a schedule of 15-20 hours per week
  • Demonstrate willingness to take instruction/guidance and meet regularly with a supervisor
  • Work effectively as a member of the PhD Plus team
  • Maintain office standards and protocol with respect to processes, confidentiality, and other issues
  • Organize and work independently on assigned tasks
  • Possess strong organizational, communication, & time management skills
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Possess strong computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel spreadsheets
  • Appreciate and internalize professional standards and ethics
  • Be flexible, open-minded, proactive, and maintain a positive attitude
  • Support the mission of the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs

Preference will be given to applicants who also have:
  • Familiarity with Drupal and other website development software programs
  • Experience with Canva or similar graphic design platforms
  • Demonstrated experience with internet-based research
  • Experience with data visualization and reporting

Compensation:
20 hours per week at $20 per hour. The PhD Plus Graduate Student Intern position is available throughout the academic year, including the fall and spring semesters.
Questions? Please contact Sam Lake, Associate Director of Career and Professional Development, at vvg6xs@virginia.edu.
Please upload a cover letter (maximum 1 page) with your application.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Bachelor's degree. Registered as a UVA graduate student.
Experience: none
Licensure: None
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