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Postdoctoral Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Research / Scientific, Veterinary Medicine Looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated postdoctoral ... The candidate will also assist with the development of liver and/or brain organoid cultures ...

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location: Roanoke ... Write fellowship applications and assist with the preparation of grant proposals. Required ...

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All JobsPostdoctoral Research JobsPostdoctoral Research Assistant JobsPostdoctoral Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Postdoctoral Research Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$42.1K

$85.2K

$115.5K

How much do postdoctoral research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research assistant in Virginia is $85,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral research assistant?

A Postdoctoral Research Assistant is a researcher who has recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD) and is engaged in further academic or scientific research. Their primary role is to conduct independent or collaborative research projects, often under the supervision of senior academics or principal investigators. Postdoctoral Research Assistants contribute to publications, grant writing, and may also mentor graduate or undergraduate students. This position is typically temporary and is designed to provide additional training and experience before transitioning to more permanent academic or research roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant, you need a PhD in a relevant field, strong analytical and experimental skills, and a solid record of academic research. Familiarity with domain-specific laboratory techniques, data analysis software like MATLAB or R, and experience with academic publishing are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively help you stand out. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, disseminating findings, and contributing effectively to scientific teams.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral research assistants when transitioning to independent research roles?

One common challenge for Postdoctoral Research Assistants is balancing the demands of supporting their supervisor's projects while developing their own independent research ideas. Navigating grant applications, building a publication record, and establishing professional networks can also be daunting. Additionally, adapting to new institutional cultures and expectations, especially when moving between universities or countries, requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Proactively seeking mentorship and collaborating with colleagues can help ease this transition and set the stage for a successful independent research career.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Research Assistant vs Research Fellow?

AspectPostdoctoral Research AssistantResearch Fellow
Required credentialsPhD or equivalentPhD or equivalent, often with additional experience
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsResearch projects, academic institutions, sometimes independent
Employer and industry usageUniversities, research institutesUniversities, research organizations, sometimes industry
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, independent research

The main difference between a Postdoctoral Research Assistant and a Research Fellow lies in experience level and independence. Postdoctoral Research Assistants typically work under supervision on specific projects, while Research Fellows often have more independence and may lead their own research. Both roles require a PhD and are common in academic and research settings.

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings:

Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,222 per year, or $41 per hour.

Research Associate in Environmental Sciences

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

The EHCR Group invites applicants for a postdoctoral research associate under the supervision of Professor Huilin Huang. The EHCR Group in the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia aims to improve understanding of climate-related hazards (wildfire, drought, flood) and their impacts on natural environments and human communities using remote sensing, Earth system modeling, and machine learning. The research associate is expected to conduct research on human-fires interactions in built environment.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A PhD in atmospheric science, geography, environmental science, computer science, or a related discipline is required by the start date. Candidates should have strong Python and geospatial-data analysis experience, demonstrated independent research ability, and excellent communication skills.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online athttps://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobsand search for R0077248.

  • Attach a 1-page cover letter listing your research interests and experience
  • CV/resume
  • 2 representative publications
  • Contact information for three references (name, email address, telephone number, and address).

Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on October 20, 2025, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional two, one-year increments, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, contact Huilin Huang, Assistant Professor, at huilin.huang@virginia.edu.

For questions regarding the application process, contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

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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