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Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$21.49 - $35.03/hr

We are looking for dedicated Research Assistant in the Fairfax and Ashburn area to work in children's specialties including Inova Children's Hematology/Oncology, Inova Children's Pulmonology, Inova ...

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA

$19.75 - $27/hr

We are looking for dedicated Research Assistant in the Fairfax and Ashburn area to work in children's specialties including Inova Children's Hematology/Oncology, Inova Children's Pulmonology, Inova ...

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535375 Work type: Staff Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location: Roanoke ...

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533999 Work type: Staff Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location: Roanoke ...

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534078 Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time Senior management: College of Veterinary Medicine Department: Biomedical Science Location:

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

May assist with direct patient care, laboratory services, and maintenance of supplies duties as they relate to Clinical Research. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to ...

The Research Assistant will assist the Dean or a Faculty member of the Law School with various projects by utilizing library and internet resources to research topics and then summarize the findings.

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA

$19 - $26.25/hr

May assist with direct patient care, laboratory services, and maintenance of supplies duties as they relate to Clinical Research. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to ...

The Clinical Research Assistant will perform a variety of duties involved in the collection, compilation, documentation and analysis of clinical research data. The Clinical Research Assistant will ...

New

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET) Location: Quantico, VA Employment Type: Full-Time Security Clearance: Secret (Tier 3) This ...

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET) Location: Quantico, VA Employment Type: Full-Time Security Clearance: Secret (Tier 3) This ...

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Showing results 1-20

Research Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$21

$31

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Virginia is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectResearch AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in a related field; some roles require a master'sAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or corporate R&D settingsLaboratories, hospitals, or industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and focus on supporting research projects, data analysis, and academic studies. Laboratory Technicians usually have an associate's degree or certification and perform routine lab tests and maintenance. Both roles work in laboratory environments but serve different functions within research and clinical settings.

What are some common challenges research assistants face when balancing multiple projects, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Research Assistants often juggle several projects simultaneously, which can lead to competing deadlines and shifting priorities. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with supervising researchers, use organizational tools such as project management software or detailed timelines, and regularly review progress with the team. Setting realistic expectations and proactively seeking clarification on priorities can also help ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Developing these time management and collaboration skills is crucial for success in a dynamic research environment.

What does a research assistant do?

Research assistants gather and document information for their employer. As a research assistant, your responsibilities vary depending on the setting and field in which you work. Most research assistants work in academia, either in the science or humanities departments at a university, or for research institutes. Duties may include collecting data from the library and other sources, conducting surveys, and recruiting volunteers. In a laboratory setting, you may prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment, assist with experiments, and log readings and results.

What is a research assistant job salary?

The salary for a research assistant varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year. Graduate students or those working part-time may earn hourly wages between $12 and $20. Skills in data analysis and familiarity with research tools can influence compensation levels.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research assistants typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or engineering. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with research tools or software are also important qualifications.

How hard is it to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position typically requires relevant academic background, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, and strong organizational or analytical skills. Competition can be high, especially for positions in prestigious institutions or specialized fields, and some roles may require prior research experience or familiarity with specific tools like statistical software.

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

To thrive as a Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant academic background, often with a bachelor's or master's degree in the field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is typically required. Effective communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities help Research Assistants collaborate and manage complex tasks efficiently. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, reliable research results and supporting the project's overall success.

What is a research assistant?

Research assistants are individuals who support research projects by helping with data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and administrative tasks. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor in academic, scientific, or industry settings. Research assistants may also contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications. Their role is essential in ensuring that research projects are conducted efficiently and accurately.

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

The most popular types of Research jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,180 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Research Assistant

Inova

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$21.49 - $35.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

234th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


We are looking for dedicated Research Assistant in the Fairfax and Ashburn area to work in children's specialties including Inova Children's Hematology/Oncology, Inova Children's Pulmonology, Inova Children's Gastroenterology, Inova Children's Neurology and Inova Children's Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. These roles will be full-time, day shift with varying hours from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.
Inova is consistently ranked a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.
Featured Benefits:
  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off and paid parental leave.

Research Assistant
The Research Assistant assists in the collection, validation and entry of data by using established tools, technologies and databases. Performs administrative functions in order to support the accomplishments of research/project objectives.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assists in baseline study enrollment, specimen collection/processing and follow-up visits.
  • Assists with data collection and communications to ensure accuracy and data completeness.
  • Assists in reviewing and entry of data collection forms; reviews for completeness and reconciles missing data for data entry.
  • Performs administrative functions in order to support the accomplishments of research/project objectives.
  • Assists in the compilation and distribution of reports related to research findings.
  • Occasionally provides informed consent to potential human subjects for research studies according to Inova Health System policies in addition to institutional, state and federal regulations.
  • Documents entire informed consent process in enrollment notes in subject records and Epic electronic medical records.
  • Ensures study/regulatory compliance and readiness by performing a review of study documentation and participating in appropriate reporting.
  • Assists in regulatory readiness for internal Research Quality Improvement team and external (i.e. Sponsor, FDA) audit visits.
  • Notifies Inova's Research Center, research manager/department director, PI, IRB, sponsor and other appropriate personnel of audit visits and results.
  • Assists in the response to audit reports and follow-up requests as needed.
  • Participates in orienting and training of new research staff.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Education: Two years of college coursework
  • Experience: 1 year of experience in a research, administrative or clinical support role

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous Pediatric Specialists of Virginia (PSV) work experience

Additional Details:
  • Application deadline: this position will remain posted for 30 days from the original posting date. Applications must be submitted before the posting closes.
  • Tentative employment start date: June 2027

Applicants may be considered for current and future opportunities.
We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 25,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare.
Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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