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Research Associate I Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537382 Work type: Research Faculty ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537246 Work type: Research Faculty ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537240 Work type: Research Faculty ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534727 Work type: Research Faculty ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536733 Work type: Research Faculty ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Research Associate - ECE Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536454 Work type: Research ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537306 Work type: Research Faculty ... About Virginia Tech Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the ...

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Research Associate I information

See Virginia salary details

$16

$32

$46

How much do research associate i jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate i in Virginia is $32.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.96 and $36.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Research Associate I do?

A Research Associate I is an entry-level professional who assists in conducting scientific research, experiments, and data analysis under the supervision of senior researchers. Their responsibilities often include preparing laboratory materials, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining accurate records, and helping to write reports or papers. This role is typically found in academic, medical, or industrial research settings and provides valuable experience for those pursuing a career in research or laboratory sciences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Associate I?

To thrive as a Research Associate I, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in a scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), and adherence to standard operating procedures is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative research environments. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable results, and successful teamwork in advancing research objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by a Research Associate I, and how can they be addressed?

As a Research Associate I, one common challenge is balancing multiple projects with tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy in data collection and analysis. This role often requires adapting quickly to shifting priorities and collaborating with both senior researchers and laboratory teams. Developing strong organizational and communication skills can help manage these demands effectively. Additionally, proactively seeking feedback and clarifying expectations with supervisors can ensure research objectives are met efficiently.

What is the difference between Research Associate I vs Research Associate II?

AspectResearch Associate IResearch Associate II
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in relevant fieldBachelor's or Master's degree, more experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level research settings, laboratoriesSimilar environments, with increased responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in biotech, pharma, academiaSame industries, higher expectations

The main difference between Research Associate I and Research Associate II lies in experience and responsibility. Research Associate II typically requires more experience or advanced education and involves more complex tasks. Both roles are found in similar environments and industries, but Research Associate II often takes on greater responsibilities and may supervise junior staff.

How to become a research associate I?

To become a Research Associate I, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Relevant skills include data analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research tools; some positions may require prior research experience or internships. Entry-level roles often require strong communication skills and attention to detail.

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

The most popular types of Research I jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Associate I jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Research Associate I job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Associate I job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,105 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Research Associate

Blacksburg, VA


Virginia Tech
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 627 rated colleges and universities

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Full-time

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Job description

Research Associate

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537382
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Engineering
Department: Computer Science
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Engineering, Research / Scientific

Job Description

Prof. Debswapna Bhattacharya's research group in the Department of Computer Science at Virginia Tech (https://people.cs.vt.edu/dbhattacharya/) seeks to recruit a Research Associate in the area of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Biomolecular Modeling.
The Research Associate will focus on developing and applying AI methodologies to drive advances in drug discovery and biomolecular design. This associate will contribute and help to lead the group's mission in leveraging AI for scientific discovery.
The Research Associate will conduct groundbreaking research that transforms current AI for Science paradigms. They will focus on multidisciplinary applications in biomolecular modeling and design, leading to a step-change in Scientific Machine Learning (SciML). The Research Associate will be expected to collaborate with members of the group as well as other stakeholders and to perform modest service duties around missions of the group, such as training and engagement.

Required Qualifications

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Statistics, Mathematics, Biophysics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or related fields.
Substantial programming experience.
Experience with research projects in the fields of AI and/or Machine Learning
Excellent communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated record of excellence in advancing artificial intelligence, characterized by a strong publication history in top-tier venues and a research background outlining significant contributions to AI that demonstrate high potential for research impact.
Published research experience in AI for scientific discovery and/or AI-driven biomolecular modeling and/or scientific machine learning.

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$64,000-$74,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

09/09/2026

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 Joe Morgan at jmorgan99@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: August 25, 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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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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