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Research Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA

$17 - $23.25/hr

Lab Website: The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting research projects, managing the mouse colony, and serving as the "go-to" person for lab trainees. We are particularly ...

Virginia Tech

Research Technician

Blacksburg, VA

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

The lab is currently employing advanced quantitative methods to conduct leading-edge research on the role of neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) in the human brain to ...

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How much do research lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for research lab in Virginia is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Research Lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Research Lab position, you need strong analytical skills, scientific knowledge in your field, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related discipline. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or MATLAB), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success. These abilities ensure accurate experimentation, meaningful results, and a safe, collaborative research environment.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a research lab environment?

Working in a research lab often involves navigating tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing project priorities, and troubleshooting experimental setbacks. Collaboration is key, as you'll frequently work alongside other researchers, lab technicians, and sometimes students, which requires strong communication skills. Additionally, maintaining meticulous records and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of research findings. Overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding and can help foster valuable problem-solving and teamwork skills for your future career.

What is a research lab?

A research lab is a specialized facility where scientists, researchers, or students conduct experiments and investigations to advance knowledge in a particular field. Research labs can be found in universities, hospitals, private companies, or government institutions and are equipped with tools and equipment tailored to their focus area. These labs support a variety of activities, such as basic or applied research, testing, and product development, often following strict safety and ethical guidelines.

What is the difference between Research Lab vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch LabResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically advanced degrees (Master's or PhD)Bachelor's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentLaboratory settings, research facilitiesAssist in experiments, data collection in labs or field
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, corporate R&DUniversities, research projects, government agencies

Research Lab refers to a facility or organization conducting scientific research, often led by senior researchers. A Research Assistant is a role within a research lab, supporting experiments and data analysis. While both are involved in research activities, Research Lab is the environment or organization, whereas Research Assistant is a specific job position within that environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Lab jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Research Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Lab jobs in Virginia? For Research Lab jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Lab jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Research Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Lab jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Research Lab job openings:
Research Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lab job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,422 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Lab Research Professional 2 UVA Spiliotis Lab

Lab Research Professional 2 UVA Spiliotis Lab

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

University Of Virginia rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 528 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Cell Biology, at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, is seeking a Lab Specialist Intermediate to work in Dr. Elias Spiliotis's laboratory (spiliotislab.org). Lab Specialist Intermediate employees perform complex laboratory and research tasks, working independently in developing, designing, and conducting experimental procedures. In addition, they oversee day-to-day lab operations and equipment maintenance, manage lab budgets, and can supervise support personnel.
Job Responsibilities Include:
  • Specialize in lab research methods and equipment functions with a focus on protein biochemistry, and the purification of recombinant proteins using fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC).
  • Design and execute molecular cloning projects, and the purification of DNA constructs
  • Perform vitro reconstitution assays with cytoskeletal polymers (actin, microtubules) using total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy
  • Perform biochemical assays that test for protein interactions and post-translational modifications of proteins
  • Prepare materials and reagents that are commonly shared by the lab for routine experiments
  • Perform cell biological experiments using microscopy on a need basis
  • Acquire and analyze data, and interpret outcomes
  • Supervise, train and assist lab members in lab techniques and procedures as needed
  • Oversee day-to-day lab activities and operations including lab purchases and budgets.
  • Oversee the maintenance of lab digital databases and inventories
  • Oversee the operation and maintenance of basic lab equipment and train users in the operation of equipment of commonly shared equipment such as high and ultra speed centrifuges.
  • May act as a liaison to other labs and research projects.
  • Participate in lab meetings.
  • Participate in the writing of grant research proposals and publications, and presentation of data at research conferences.

Minimum Requirements
Education: Bachelor's degree required.
Experience: 3+ years of relevant experience.
Physical Demands: This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other bench work and animal procedures requiring finer finger manipulation.
Salary Range: The anticipated salary is $55,000, commensurate with education and experience.
Exemption Status: This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits .
Funding Details : This position has a term limit of July 1, 2027 after which continued employment will depend on department need and funding.
Work Arrangement : This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.
About UVA and the Community: To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Application Timeline: Application review will begin after February 13, 2026.
Background Check: Background checkswill be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
Visa Sponsorship: This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.
How to Apply: Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R0080272. Complete an application with the following documents:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.
Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Reference Check Process: Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.
Department Contact: For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Elias Spiliotis.
Recruiter Contact: For questions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman .
Job Profile
J1885 - Laboratory Research Professional 2
Career Stream and Level
Professional-P2
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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