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Psych Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535375 Work type: Staff Senior ... biology, psychology, or a related field Experience working in a professional research setting ...

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Psych Research Assistant information

What is a psych research assistant?

Psych Research Assistants are individuals who support psychologists and researchers in conducting psychological studies. Their responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing data, recruiting and scheduling study participants, preparing research materials, and helping ensure studies comply with ethical guidelines. They may also assist with literature reviews, data entry, and basic statistical analysis. This role is essential for the smooth operation of psychology research projects and provides valuable experience for those considering advanced study or a career in psychology.

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

To thrive as a Psych Research Assistant, you typically need a background in psychology or a related field, along with strong analytical and research skills. Familiarity with statistical software (like SPSS or R), survey tools, and research ethics certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are essential soft skills. These abilities are crucial for ensuring data accuracy, supporting research integrity, and facilitating smooth collaboration within research teams.

What are some typical challenges faced by psych research assistants when collecting and managing data?

Psychology Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as ensuring data accuracy, maintaining participant confidentiality, and adhering to strict research protocols. Managing large datasets can be complex, especially when dealing with sensitive information or multiple sources of data. Additionally, RAs must be prepared to troubleshoot technical issues with research software and handle unexpected participant behaviors during studies. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication within the research team.

What is the difference between Psych Research Assistant vs Clinical Research Coordinator?

AspectPsych Research AssistantClinical Research Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in psychology or related fieldOften a bachelor's degree, sometimes requiring certification or experience in clinical settings
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, universitiesHospitals, clinics, clinical trial sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, mental health organizationsPharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, clinical trial organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles in psychologyCompared for managing clinical trials and patient interactions

The main difference between a Psych Research Assistant and a Clinical Research Coordinator lies in their work focus and environment. Psych Research Assistants typically work in academic or research settings focusing on psychological studies, while Clinical Research Coordinators manage clinical trials in healthcare settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and industry applications.

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

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

Infographic showing various Psych 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.

$18.50 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Odyssey is seeking a Research Assistant to support the Clinical Investigation Department (CID) at the Navy Medical Center, Portsmouth (NMCP) Virginia. NMCP conducts biomedical research in general surgery, psychology, otolaryngology, pediatrics, nursing research, orthopedics, women's health, and emergency medicine, which are relevant to the Graduate Medical Education Program.

Responsibilities

Duties include, but not limited to: 

  • Execute and provide maintenance on research studies.
  • Carry out tasks related to research studies as required.
  • Maintain files and records of ongoing research projects.
  • Recruit and telephone screen subjects.
  • Communicate with research subjects via telephone or in person and ask relevant research questions as per protocol.
  • Arrange follow-ups with and visits for research subjects.
  • Perform selected research subject visit duties, for example, presenting questionnaires and collectingdemographics.
  • Perform data collection as per protocol.
  • Enter data into Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) databases (if applicable).
  • Transfer data from questionnaires and data sheets to the databases. Prepare progress reports.
  • Document all correspondence and communication pertinent to the research.
  • Keep a log of all correspondence and communication relating to the assigned duties.
  • Perform duties related to the research such as obtaining signatures and delivering documents to CID for the investigators.
  • Complete all paperwork and documentation.
  • As required by protocol, obtain patient's medical record/reports following procedures.
  • Obtain lab and x-ray results as needed, via CHCS or AHLTA systems.
  • Make patient appointments by phone and with the use of Composite Health Care System (CHCS) or other method as prescribed by the protocol, command, and clinic structure.
  • Attend conferences and meetings for assigned protocol.
  • Assist PI, research team members, and other staff in the preparation of and closeout of clinical research studies.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and institutional regulations.
  • Provide instruction and presentation material, and assistance to research staff, as needed, for CID departmental and command-wide research educationaland training programs, as needed.
  • Actively participate in Assurance Assist Visits and regulatory audits for protocol compliance. 
Qualifications

Minimum Required Qualifications:

Citizenship: Must be a US citizen

Clearance: Secret 

Education/Years of Experience: 

  • Associate's Degree with a focus in Healthcare or related discipline (such as Biology or Psychology) or the equivalency of a minimum of three (3) years working experience in a hospital, physician's office, or academic setting (i.e., pre-medical student).

Skills: 

  • Proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office Suites program.
  • Must possess the ability to complete research subject protection training developed by the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITTI), and additional protocol specific training, as required, within one month from start date.

Additional Information:

Location: Portsmouth, VA 

Travel: None 

Remote, Onsite, or Hybrid: Onsite - 5 days a week at the NMCP in Portsmouth.

#LI-JC1

Company Overview

Odyssey is a world-class technical, engineering, and integration company serving the warfighting ecosystem with airborne integration, ISR, C2, and warfighter readiness capabilities. Odyssey meets the military's operational needs by integrating layered defense systems from equipment, technology, and services to data, information, and business operations. We streamline defense acquisition and sustainment, engineering the technical battlefield with domain-specific proficiency to ensure lethality. Odyssey is dedicated to excellent contract execution, peak organizational performance, and fostering a workplace built on employee care.

Odyssey is proud to live out our core values of commitment, ambition, and respect in our work and communities through OdysseyCares, a philanthropic group focused on giving back through direct donations, an employer match program, and volunteering events.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Please Note:

Final compensation for this position will be determined by various factors such as the Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant work experience, specific skills and competencies, geographic location, education, and certifications.

This position is filled through continuous recruitment and will remain open until a sufficient pool of applications has been received.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, Tricare supplement, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, employee assistance program, learning and development benefit, paid time off, and holidays.Odyssey Benefits

Employment Type: FULL_TIME