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Phd Research Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Howard University

Research Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Prepare research manuscripts for publication, contribute to grant preparation, and contribute to ... PhD Degree in related field (Biological Sciences/Chemistry, Biochemistry) and 5 years of related ...

Quandela

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC

$111K - $142K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing Quandela's research agenda ... PhD in physics, quantum information science, quantum technologies, photonics, electrical ...

Quandela

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC · On-site

$111K - $142K/yr

The Senior Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing Quandela's research agenda ... PhD in physics, quantum information science, quantum technologies, photonics, electrical ...

Quandela SA

Senior Research Scientist US

Washington, DC · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

The Senior Research Scientist will play a key role in advancing Quandela's research agenda ... PhD in physics, quantum information science, quantum technologies, photonics, electrical ...

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All JobsPhd Research Scientist JobsPhd Research Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA

Phd Research Scientist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$52.5K

$135.4K

$181K

How much do phd research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd research scientist in Reston, VA is $135,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,800.00 and $180,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD research scientist?

PhD Research Scientists are professionals who have earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree and conduct advanced research in their field of expertise. They design and carry out experiments, analyze data, and develop new theories or technologies. These scientists often work at universities, research institutes, government agencies, or private industry, contributing to scientific knowledge and innovation. Their work may be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences to share findings with the wider scientific community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD research scientist?

To thrive as a PhD Research Scientist, you need advanced expertise in your scientific discipline, strong analytical abilities, and a doctoral degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB, R, or Python), and experience with research methodologies are typically required. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication are essential soft skills for presenting findings and collaborating with diverse teams. These skills ensure rigorous, innovative research and facilitate knowledge sharing and problem-solving within the scientific community.

What are some common challenges PhD research scientists face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

PhD Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster project timelines, aligning research objectives with business goals, and learning to communicate scientific findings to non-specialist stakeholders. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on collaboration, cross-functional teamwork, and delivering results that directly impact product development or company strategy. Building skills in project management and networking within multidisciplinary teams can help ease this transition and open up further advancement opportunities.

What is the difference between Phd Research Scientist vs Data Scientist?

AspectPhd Research ScientistData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in relevant field, research experienceBachelor's/Master's in CS, stats, or related field; some roles prefer PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsTech companies, finance, healthcare, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, corporate R&DBusiness sectors, startups, large tech firms

While both roles involve data analysis and research skills, a Phd Research Scientist primarily focuses on academic or fundamental research, often in labs or R&D settings. Data Scientists typically work in industry, applying data analysis to solve business problems. The roles overlap in skills but differ in environment and application focus.

How much money do PhD research scientists make?

PhD research scientists typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often work in research institutions, academia, or industry labs, utilizing advanced skills in data analysis, experimental design, and specialized tools.

What can you do with a research Phd?

A research PhD prepares individuals for careers in academia, industry, government, or non-profit sectors, often involving roles such as research scientist, data analyst, or product developer. It develops advanced skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and specialized knowledge, which are valuable in R&D, consulting, or scientific communication.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Research Scientist jobs in Reston, VA?

For Phd Research Scientist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Research Scientist jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Research Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Phd Research Scientist jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Phd Research Scientist job openings:

Phd Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Research Scientist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,368 per year, or $65.1 per hour.

Research Scientist (I, II, III, or Senior) - Uniformed Services University

The Geneva Foundation

Rockville, MD • On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Position Level & Research Focus Areas:
This posting supports several levels within the Research Scientist track (Research Scientist I, II, III, and Senior Research Scientist). Candidates are encouraged to apply at the level that best aligns with their experience, qualifications, and demonstrated impact. Final level and title will be determined based on the selected candidate's background and expertise.
We are currently seeking candidates with experience in one or more of the following research focus areas:
• Manufactured Blood Product Development
(e.g., using stem cells to generate large-scale blood cell production for transfusion; engineering animal-derived blood products; and developing synthetic blood substitutes to address limitations in human blood donation)
• Organoid and Advanced In Vitro Model Development
(e.g., organoids, organ-on-a-chip systems, tissue engineering, and 3D cell culture platforms)
Applicants should clearly indicate their relevant experience, preferred level, and research focus area in their application materials.
Estimated Salary Range:
$90,000 - $150,000. Salaries are determined based on several factors including assigned grade level, external market data, internal equity, and the candidate's related knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position. This range spans all grade levels. Lower grade levels align with approximately the 25th percentile of the range, mid-level grades align with the 50th percentile, and higher grade levels align with the 75th percentile and above.
About the 4DBio3 Program
The USU 4DBio³ is a Center for Biotechnology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences that develops and applies advanced biotechnologies to enhance the readiness, health, and well-being of America's Warfighters, veterans, and families. It champions a multidisciplinary approach that unites DoD and federal researchers, clinicians, academic collaborators, and industry partners across traditional and emerging scientific fields. The Center's research spans a broad portfolio including advanced imaging, on-demand blood products, organ-on-chip and micro physiological systems, wound care, traumatic brain injury diagnostics, and point-of-need medical devices. The Geneva Foundation serves as the nonprofit administrative partner for 4DBio³, managing the federal grants and cooperative agreements that support the Center's research, education and training, and scholarship activities. Potential for a faculty appointment at USUHS, commensurate with experience, for qualified applicants.
Key Qualifications
Research Scientist I
  • PhD in a relevant field
  • 4-6 years experience in laboratory research

Research Scientist II
  • PhD in a relevant field
  • 7 years experience in laboratory research
  • Working knowledge of experimental design
  • Familiarity with grant funding and proposal development

Research Scientist III
  • PhD in a relevant field
  • 8 years experience in laboratory research
  • Knowledge of experimental design
  • Cell and/or tissue culture experience

Senior Research Scientist
  • PhD in a relevant field
  • 3-5 years experience with planning and management of innovative medical and/or scientific research/laboratory programs
  • Experience and success in writing and receiving federal research grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts

Other Qualifications
  • Ability to pass background checks
  • Demonstrate competence in oral and written communication
  • Must be organized, attentive to detail, and possess a positive, friendly and professional demeanor
  • Ability to be flexible with changing priorities and available to interact with employees, clients and sponsors of all level
  • Experience working in DoD/DoW or other Federal research environments
  • Experience guiding, training and/or supervising research personnel
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment in fast-paced, high-pressure environment with strict deadlines, and to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Ability to work with senior leaders to help advise on upcoming projects and scientific initiatives
  • Ability to perform analyses of research portfolios to identify critical gaps, exceptional results and/or lack of progress

Common Responsibilities
(Responsibilities may vary dependent on level of position)
  • Execute research studies, analyze data, prepare and manage SOPs and other study documentation, and prepare progress reports
  • Provide guidance to scientists preparing research proposals, to include guidance on research protocol development, as needed
  • Perform scientific reviews on research proposals as requested
  • Ensure research integrity
  • Direct multifunctional teams and provide scientific domain expertise as needed
  • Support the dissemination of research results through, e.g., peer-reviewed publications and presentations at project-relevant conferences
  • Maintain open communication and collaboration with Principal Investigators and other site and Geneva personnel
  • Procure supplies and equipment as authorized per research budget guidelines
  • Comply with all the rules and regulations as applicable to assigned duty station
  • Support and oversee R&D projects, ensuring timeline and deliverables are met
  • Prepare progress reports on research activities as required
  • Analyze and write-up data
  • Present complex information effectively to diverse audiences and senior leadership
  • Provide data management assistance
  • Provide training and supervision to entry level research staff
  • Adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and infection control procedures, as applicable
  • Maintain and update files of all applicable regulatory documentation for IACUC or IRB (including protocols, approvals, amendments, modifications, etc.) as well as any communications with the sponsor or any other Federal or regulatory office (including prior approvals, change in scope, etc.), as needed
  • Contribute to drafting and submitting of abstracts, manuscripts and reports for dissemination
  • Assist in the development and submission of funding opportunities

This is an Evergreen job posting. At Geneva, we are always on the search for top talent. While this role is not associated with a current opening, one may become available in the near future. Resumes are reviewed on an ongoing basis, and you could be contacted for this role or similar, at anytime.

Apply