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Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA

$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 position ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Falls Church, VA

$23 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a vital member of our research team, you will assist in the coordination and management of clinical research studies, ensuring adherence to protocols and regulatory requirements. When you work ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Part-Time Research Assistant

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

$19.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 24 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Part-Time Research Assistant

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537277
Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time
Senior management: Vice President for Research
Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific

Job Description

A part-time Research Assistant is being sought to support projects in the lab of Dr. Stein at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion in Roanoke, Virginia. The Stein Lab's research leverages multidisciplinary expertise in behavioral economics, medicine, computer science, biostatistics, and cognitive psychology to understand how delay, uncertainty, and effort influence health-related decision-making. Within this framework, the lab's goal is to develop effective and highly accessible behavioral interventions to improve public health and reduce health disparities. Current areas of focus include type 2 diabetes management, tobacco cessation and harm reduction, and cancer prevention.
Lab website: https://fbri.vtc.vt.edu/research/labs/stein.html 
This position involves maintaining daily operations duties, such as supply ordering and management, overseeing administrative actions related to research, and assistance with fiscal duties and interactions with research participants.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented person who enjoys interacting with others, being a key part of a diverse and active scientific environment, learning new techniques, and managing multiple project duties. This position will provide an excellent opportunity to gain research experience in psychology, public health, sociology, and neuroscience.

Required Qualifications

Demonstrated organizational skills and acknowledgement of safety protocols.
Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
Demonstrated communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and exceptional time-management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Coursework or training in psychology, public health, sociology, neuroscience, or a related field
Prior research experience in a professional setting.

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Starting at $19.50/hr; Commensurate with Experience.

Hours per week

Up to 32 hours

Review Date

8/15/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at sheltb@vtc.vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: August 10, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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