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Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Howard University

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture Join Howard University and thrive with us! • Recruits subjects to participate in research studies; assesses potential ...

CBH Health LLC.

Research Assistant I

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$18.35 - $22.48/hr

With moderate oversight, the Research Assistant I provides direct support to Clinical Research Coordinators in the completion of protocol-specific study goals while observing strict adherence to ICH ...

MPF Federal

Research Assistant - Part Time

Bethesda, MD

$28K - $30K/yr

Apply basic clinical research methodologies to meet protocol and regulatory requirements. Assist in the development of client deliverables according to project requirements, including but not limited ...

MPF Federal

Research Assistant - Part Time

Bethesda, MD · On-site +1

$28K - $30K/yr

Essential Duties: • Apply basic clinical research methodologies to meet protocol and regulatory requirements. • Assist in the development of client deliverables according to project requirements ...

Howard

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$21.75 - $30/hr

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant ...

Howard

Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$21.75 - $30/hr

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant ...

Hit Strategies

2026 Research Pipeline

Washington, DC · Remote

Positions include Executive Research Assistant, Analyst, Senior Analyst, Research Manager and 1099 Contract Researcher. We conduct informational interviews on a rolling basis. Research candidates who ...

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Research Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$8

$22

$33

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Reston, VA is $22.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.49 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.

How much is a research assistant paid?

Research assistants typically earn between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on their experience, education level, and the industry or institution. In some cases, they may receive stipends or salaries ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 annually for full-time positions, especially in academic or research settings.

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 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.

What exactly does a research assistant do?

A research assistant supports research projects by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data, often using tools like spreadsheets or statistical software. They may also review literature, prepare reports, and assist with experiments or fieldwork under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor.

How to get work as a research assistant?

To work as a research assistant, candidates typically need a relevant educational background such as a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in research methods and data analysis, and applying to positions through university departments, research institutions, or online job boards are common steps. Strong organizational skills and proficiency with tools like statistical software can improve chances of employment.

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 are research assistants?

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.
More about Research Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Research jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Research Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Research Assistant job openings:
Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,410 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Howard University

Washington, DC • On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Howard University rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 538 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
• Recruits subjects to participate in research studies; assesses potential participants for eligibility; enrolls study participants, including explaining research procedures & protocols and obtaining informed consent of subjects and/or their families.
• Schedules appointments of study participants; contacts participants to remind them about appointments.
• Administers questionnaires, conducts interviews and assessments following established protocols, and assists study participants in navigating through questionnaires.
• Identifies subjects with significant clinical concerns and relays this information to the Program Manager or Principal Investigator.
• Maintains patient study files in accordance with legal and institutional guidelines.
• Performs a variety of data management procedures (e.g., data entry, producing basic reports, data cleaning, database maintenance).
• Codes qualitative interviews using codebooks and NVIVO database.
• Utilizes databases (e.g., Excel) to track research activities and to record data.
• Aids in the development of reports, grants, presentations, and data analysis. Assists with manuscript and grant preparation and research.
• Conducts literature searches and synthesizes information in requested formats.
• Attends all required training and meetings of the research team, as instructed by Principal Investigator or Project Manager.
• Maintains established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance programs, safety, environmental and infection control standards. Participates in staff meetings/initiatives including appropriate quality improvement and education activities, or if unable to attend non-mandatory activities, accepts responsibility to review meeting minutes and becomes knowledgeable of issues discussed.
• Conforms to College of Medicine and hospital standards of performance and conduct, including those pertaining to patient rights, so that the best possible service and patient care may be provided.
• Follows established infection control and safety procedures.
• Obtains and distributes reimbursements/participation vouchers and/or payments.
• Other duties as assigned.
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