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Research Student Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Further responsibilities include maintaining the VT Bed Bug Urban Pest Management Center website and social media assets; interacting with research sponsors; and assisting graduate students. Reports ...

Research Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537382 Work type: Research Faculty ... Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age ...

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA

$19.75 - $27/hr

Tuition and Student Loan Assistance : offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up ... Research Assistant The Research Assistant assists in the collection, validation and entry of data ...

Showing results 41-60

Research Student information

See Virginia salary details

$2.1K

$6.4K

$7.7K

How much do research student jobs pay per month?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average monthly pay for research student in Virginia is $6,384.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,375.00 and $7,600.00 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research student?

Research students are individuals, typically enrolled in postgraduate programs such as a master's by research or a PhD, who conduct original research under the supervision of academic staff. Their primary focus is on investigating a specific topic, contributing new knowledge to their field, and developing advanced research skills. Research students often work on dissertations or theses and may also assist in teaching, publishing papers, or presenting at conferences.

What are some common challenges research students face when balancing research with coursework and how can they manage their time effectively?

Research Students often juggle multiple responsibilities, including coursework, laboratory or fieldwork, and meeting research milestones. One common challenge is managing deadlines for assignments while progressing on their thesis or research projects. Effective time management strategies include setting clear, achievable goals, regularly communicating with supervisors, and utilizing project management tools to track progress. Many institutions also offer workshops and peer support groups that can help Research Students develop strong organizational and coping skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research student, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Student, you need strong analytical abilities, proficiency in academic writing, and a solid foundation in your chosen field, often supported by enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with research management tools, statistical software (like SPSS or R), and literature databases is typically essential. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective time management are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for producing high-quality research, meeting deadlines, and contributing meaningful insights to your academic discipline.

What is the difference between Research Student vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch StudentResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in a degree program (e.g., Master's or PhD)Usually holds a relevant degree, often undergraduate or graduate
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institution, often part-time or full-time during studiesResearch labs, universities, or research centers, often as a paid position
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms

Research students are primarily enrolled in academic programs and focus on their own research projects, while research assistants support ongoing research activities, often as paid staff. Both roles involve research tasks but differ in their educational status and employment structure.

How to get research experience as a research student?

Research students can gain experience by assisting faculty with ongoing projects, participating in laboratory work, and attending research seminars. Developing skills in data analysis, literature review, and research methodologies, as well as publishing findings or presenting at conferences, can enhance their experience and credentials.

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

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

Infographic showing various Research Student job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,611 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Research Assistant - IE

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


James Madison University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Research Assistant - IE

Apply now Job no: 20002214
Work type: Institutional Employment
Location: Harrisonburg
Categories: Student Employment

Working Title: Research Assistant - IE

State Role Title: Research Assistant

Position Type: Institutional Employment

Position Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Exempt: Not Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Vice President - REDI

Department: 400341 - MCCD Consultin

Pay Band: 

Pay Rate: Hourly

Specify Range or Amount: $18 

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? Yes. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon continued funding.

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 

About JMU:

General Information:

Located in the heart of Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA. With a population of just over 53,000, Harrisonburg is one of the most diverse communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 20,000 undergraduate and 1,900 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.
The Madison Center for Community Development (MCCD) is a university-wide, transdisciplinary academic center, located within the Division of Research, Economic Development and Innovation (REDI). The mission of MCCD is to grow strong, just, and healthy communities through applied research and participatory program evaluation

Duties and Responsibilities:

This position will primarily assist in the implementation and evaluation of MCCD consulting projects:
Assist in weekly tasks related to program implementation with community partners.
Work with clients at partner agencies to record program progress.
Aid MCCD faculty researchers in evaluation tasks as assigned.
Conduct data entry, management, and statistical analysis. Use of SPSS, Excel, and other software for research and data entry.
Assist in grant writing and resource development.
Assist in preparing reports for federal grant compliance, partner agencies, and the broader community.

Qualifications:

This position requires off-campus hours at community agencies within the Harrisonburg area, as well as at the Madison Center for Community Development (MCCD). The research assistant will report directly to MCCD faculty, who will assign and prioritize duties to advance goals, monitor progress of work assignments, and provide timely feedback to the assigned research assistant and community partner. The research assistant will also participate in workshops hosted by the MCCD to facilitate student oversight and professional development.

Additional Posting Information:

Conditions of Employment:  

Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate), or conditionally or unconditionally accepted into a graduate program at JMU. Students who are provisionally accepted will not be eligible.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

Reasonable Accommodation:

Advertised: 21 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 08 Sep 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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