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Research Associate Assay Development Jobs in Virginia

Provide business development support to senior management by performing market research and ... The Associate will have a consultative approach and is able to work well on a team to execute ...

Provide business development support to senior management by performing market research and ... The Associate will have a consultative approach and is able to work well on a team to execute ...

Research Associate

Mclean, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Provide business development support to senior management by performing market research and ... The Associate will have a consultative approach and is able to work well on a team to execute ...

Research Associate - ECE Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536454 Work type: Research ... Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537306 Work type: Research Faculty ... and development to treat a wide range of diseases and conditions with focused ultrasound. The ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Associate Assay Development information

What does a research associate in assay development do?

A Research Associate in Assay Development is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing laboratory assays to detect or measure biological substances. They typically work in biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, supporting research and development projects by ensuring assays are robust, reliable, and reproducible. Their duties may include preparing samples, analyzing data, troubleshooting protocols, and collaborating with other scientists to improve experimental workflows. This role requires strong analytical skills and a background in biology, chemistry, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research associate in assay development?

To thrive as a Research Associate in Assay Development, you need a solid background in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field, often with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with laboratory techniques such as ELISA, PCR, and use of analytical instruments, along with experience using data analysis software, is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong organizational and communication skills help you excel in experimental design and collaborative scientific environments. These skills ensure reliable assay results, efficient workflow, and meaningful contributions to research and product development.

What are some typical challenges faced by a research associate in assay development, and how can they be addressed?

Research Associates in Assay Development often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting experimental variability, optimizing assay conditions, and managing tight project timelines. These issues can be addressed by maintaining meticulous documentation, collaborating closely with senior scientists and cross-functional teams, and staying current with the latest assay technologies and protocols. Seeking feedback from peers and participating in regular team meetings also helps in overcoming technical hurdles and ensuring that project goals are met efficiently.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate assay development?

A research associate in assay development typically does not require a PhD; a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry is often sufficient. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with assay platforms. Advanced roles or research-focused positions may prefer or require a PhD.
Infographic showing various Research Associate Assay Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate - Quantitative Analysis

Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA)

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$68K - $194K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a Federally-Funded Research and Development Center supporting the Department of War (DoW) and other federal agencies. IDA's mission is to provide objective analyses of national security issues and related national challenges, particularly those requiring extraordinary scientific and technical expertise. IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, independent thinking, and objective results.

An opportunity now exists in our Cost Analysis and Research Division (CARD) for a Research Associate. Candidates should be interested in working on a diverse set of emerging problems using advanced analytic techniques to derive data-driven insights for our sponsors. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach. Researchers work closely with each other and are in frequent contact with government sponsors. Consequently, strong communications and interpersonal skills will be greatly valued.

Responsibilities:

IDA is seeking a Research Associate to join the Cost Analysis and Research Division (CARD). Research Associates directly contribute to IDA research efforts as part of interdisciplinary research teams. The candidate for this position will support various analyses within CARD and may also work with analysts from other divisions at IDA. A Research Associate in CARD will likely be asked to:

  • Research topics independently.
  • Compile, cleanse, and analyze data.
  • Build and develop statistical models.
  • Assist in developing and maintaining information sources.
  • Attend and participate in project meetings.
  • Interact with Governmental sponsors and industrial representatives.
  • Provide presentations of analyses.
  • Contribute to the writing of reports and papers.

Minimum Job Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Applied Mathematics, Operations Research, Economics, Statistics, Data Science, Decision Science, Management Science, Accounting (or a similar field) is required.
  • Demonstrated strong communications skills are essential.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of project teams is vital.
  • Experience working with data, including data collection, normalization, analysis, and visualization is highly desirable.
  • Prior work experience is preferable.
  • Skills working with programming languages (e.g., R, Python, STATA) are a plus.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances is mandatory.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $68,681-$194,054. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.

Employment Type: Exempt