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Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

MedStar Health

Research Assistant - PRN

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.70 - $32.72/hr

About the Job General Summary of Position Under direct or close supervision provides technical lab and clinical research assistance to the research team to facilitate a variety of research activities ...

Usmd

Data Engineering - Research Assistant

College Park, MD · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

The Data Engineering Research Assistant [TW2.1]works directly with project teams to build and run Python-based data pipelines, prepare, load, and validate data in databases, and help implement search ...

Howard University

Student Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

... research assistant positions in the areas of planetary boundary layer measurements and analysis. The positions require assisting research projects within the scope of NCAS-M research thrusts. CORE ...

Howard University

Student Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

... research assistant positions in the areas of planetary boundary layer measurements and analysis. The positions require assisting research projects within the scope of NCAS-M research thrusts. CORE ...

World Bank

Senior Research Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

The office of the EDS10 is seeking to recruit a Senior Research Assistant. S/he will support the office work, as a core member of the Front Office team and provide support on research related ...

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Research Assistant information

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How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 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 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 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 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 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.

Do I need a degree to be a research assistant?

Research assistant positions typically require at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, though some roles may accept candidates with related coursework or experience. Advanced positions may require a master's or higher degree, especially in specialized or academic research environments. Skills such as data analysis, laboratory techniques, or familiarity with research tools can also be important.

Do research assistants get paid a lot?

Research assistants typically earn hourly wages or stipends that vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. In general, research assistant salaries are modest compared to other professional roles, often ranging from minimum wage to mid-level pay, especially for entry-level positions or internships. Advanced skills, certifications, or working in specialized fields can lead to higher compensation.

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 moderate to high depending on the field and institution, and some roles may require familiarity with specific tools or methodologies. Building a strong resume and gaining related experience can improve chances of employment.

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 annually. Graduate students or those working part-time may earn less, often paid hourly or through stipends. Skills in data analysis and familiarity with research tools can influence compensation levels.
More about Research Assistant jobs

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The most popular types of Research jobs in Reston, VA are:

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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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,410 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Research Assistant - Market Shaping Accelerator

Washington, DC • On-site

Center for Global Development
Social Sciences and Humanities Research • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Center for Global Developmentexternal

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support the development and adoption of high-impact market-shaping proposals by conducting economic appraisal and quantitative modeling.

  • Perform policy and sector analysis related to global challenges such as climate change, global health, and pandemic preparedness, including drafting and revising policy documents.

  • Conduct desk research to identify promising problems for market-shaping interventions and analyze market dynamics, structure, and regulatory environments.

Job description

The Center for Global Development (CGD) is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit policy research organization in Washington, DC, and London, UK that focuses on the issues and institutions that are critical to inclusive development. Through rigorous empirical research and active engagement with the global policy community, CGD focuses on the intersections between the policy and financial priorities of low- and middle-income countries and the governments, institutions, and corporations that can be partners in delivering greater progress.
Founded by Rachel Glennerster, Michael Kremer and Christopher Snyder, the Market Shaping Accelerator (MSA), housed at CGD, aims to catalyze the development of advance market commitments and other market shaping mechanisms to incentivize innovations addressing pressing global challenges including in the areas of global health, pandemic preparedness, climate, AI safety, and drug repurposing. Information on MSA’s current projects can be found on our focus areas webpage. We focus on driving innovation in areas of large social value but incommensurate commercial return in both low- and high-income country settings by identifying promising opportunities, developing high-impact proposals, and engaging with policymakers and funders. 
MSA is hiring for a Research Assistant position based in Washington D.C. The Research Assistant will work with Professor Christopher Snyder of Dartmouth, Professor Rachel Glennerster of the University of Chicago and the Center for Global Development, and other colleagues at the Market Shaping Accelerator to support the development and adoption of high-impact market-shaping proposals designed to incentivize innovations addressing climate change, pandemic threats, global health challenges, and other pressing global problems.
This position offers excellent preparation for graduate study or a future policy career. Our Research Assistants engage with leading scholars and policymakers and contribute directly to the design of market shaping proposals. We expect our Research Assistants to support key workstreams and advance our policy work, not simply conduct isolated analysis. Previous Research Assistants have been admitted to economics Ph.D. programs at Harvard University, Harvard Business School, and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Economic appraisal and quantitative modeling of market-shaping proposals (40%)
    • Benefit-cost analysis and cost-effectiveness analysis
    • Estimating the potential benefits of innovation, size of potential markets and cost of market shaping incentives.
    • Microeconomic modeling and related quantitative analysis 
    • Modeling and data analysis in Stata, R, Python, and/or MATLAB
  • Policy and sector analysis related to climate change, global health, and pandemic preparedness (25%) and other global challenges
    • Writing and revising drafts for policymakers and economists
    • Analysis of opportunities in specific sectors. This includes analysis of market dynamics, market structure, regulatory environment and implementation challenges. 
  • Desk research to identify promising candidate problems for market-shaping interventions (25%)
  • Communication and coordination with relevant stakeholders (10%)

Required Qualifications:
 
  • Bachelor’s degree in economics or a related field including coursework in intermediate microeconomics and multivariable calculus or equivalent. 
  • Strong quantitative skills and experience with empirical research methods and/or microeconomic modeling
  • Programming experience in at least one relevant language, such as Stata, R, Python, or MATLAB
  • Excellent analytical and critical-thinking skills
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and stay organized in a fast-moving research environment
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced quantitative preparation beyond the minimum requirements. This could include, for example, linear algebra, probability, statistics and econometrics, real analysis, ordinary differential equations, advanced microeconomics etc. 
  • Demonstrated interest in climate change, pandemic preparedness, global health, or related policy areas
Working Conditions
  • Some domestic and possibly international travel may be required.

Application Documents
  • Resume/CV (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)
  • Writing Sample (required)
  • Transcripts (required)
  • Professional References Contact Information (3) (required)

Closing date: October 15 at 11:59 pm ET. We may have an additional hiring round in early 2027 
Salary range: $54,500 - $60,000. Pay commensurate with education, skillset, and experience. 
We manually review applications; no AI or automated filters are used to screen candidates. 
The organization is working in a hybrid environment with all staff required to be in the office at least three days per week. CGD is registered to employ staff living in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Candidates must be able to declare a primary residence in one of these 3 locations.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document upon hire. CGD is unable to sponsor work authorization for this position.
Read about CGD’s benefits package here.
 

CGD/E is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and celebrates fostering a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive work environment. All persons will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, parental status, veteran status, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age or sexual orientation.

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