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Postdoctoral Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Contribute to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and sponsor deliverables * Assist in ... Work closely with graduate students, postdoctoral associates, and visiting scientists * Participate ...

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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 8, 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:

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.

Assistant/Associate/Full Professor

Eastern Virginia Medical School

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Overview
The Department of Biomedical and Translational Sciences (BTS), Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University (ODU) seeks exceptional applicants in its research division for a tenure-track / tenured faculty position at the ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE/ or FULL PROFESSOR level. Located in Norfolk's historic Ghent neighborhood, the institution offers a highly collaborative academic environment with access to major hospital partners, extensive core facilities, and broad research infrastructure.
The successful candidate will join a collegial department of over 50 faculty members across its Research and Education Divisions. We are seeking individuals with expertise in inflammation, epigenetics and genomics, metabolism or systems biology to complement departmental strengths in cancer, cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, neuroscience and women's and infant's health. We are particularly interested in outstanding candidates who can thrive in a transdisciplinary research environment and can collaborate with faculty in the Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, the Leroy T. Canoles Jr. Cancer Center and the newly established Brock Institute for Nutrition Science and Health.
BTS faculty have access to a centralized biorepository, histological services, state-of-the-art proteomics and genomics facilities, data analytic infrastructure, and collaborative interactions with faculty in clinical departments and across the ODU campus, enabling strong integration of basic, translational and clinical research.
Successful applicants will conduct transformative basic and translational research that advances scientific discovery and enhances human health, have a strong track record of publications, proven or high potential for sustained extramural funding, and a clear commitment to collaboration.
Responsibilities
  • Develop or maintain an extramurally funded research program.
  • Teach and mentor medical and graduate students.
  • Contribute to departmental, institutional, and professional mission.

Qualifications
Qualifications: Applicants must hold a PhD, MD or MD/PhD, and have relevant postdoctoral research experience, along with a strong record of publication. Candidates for Associate or Full Professor should demonstrate an established, extramurally funded research program, a strong publication record, and national recognition in their field.
Rank and salary: The successful applicant will hold a full-time academic appointment in the BTS department at a rank commensurate with qualifications and experience. Salary will be competitive and accompanied by comprehensive benefits and a strong start-up package.
Application materials
Please submit:
  • Cover letter describing qualifications and fit for the position (1 page)
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Research statement describing current accomplishments and future plans (3 page limit including references)
  • Contact information for three references

Review of applications will be continuous until the position is filled.
Location : Location
US-VA-Norfolk