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Research Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Research Trainee information

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How much do research trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for research trainee in Virginia is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.46 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research trainee?

Research trainees are individuals, often students or early-career professionals, who work under the guidance of experienced researchers to develop their skills and gain hands-on experience in conducting scientific or academic research. They assist with various aspects of research projects, such as data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and laboratory work. The goal is to provide practical training that prepares them for future independent research roles or advanced studies. Research traineeships are common in universities, research institutions, and some industries.

What are some common challenges research trainees face when transitioning from academic coursework to hands-on research projects?

Research Trainees often find the shift from structured academic learning to independent, hands-on research challenging. They may need to quickly learn new laboratory techniques, adapt to working with complex equipment, and manage their time between experiments, data analysis, and reporting results. Additionally, collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team and handling constructive feedback from supervisors can be demanding but are valuable for professional growth. Support from mentors and clear communication with team members can help trainees navigate these challenges successfully.

What do you do as a research trainee?

A research trainee assists with data collection, analysis, and literature reviews under the supervision of senior researchers. They often use tools like spreadsheets and statistical software and may be involved in preparing reports or presentations to support ongoing research projects.

What is the difference between Research Trainee vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch TraineeResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of a relevant degree programUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, research centers, academic institutionsLaboratories, universities, research projects
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, biotech companiesUniversities, research labs, healthcare organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles, training positionsClarifying responsibilities of research support roles

Research Trainee positions are often entry-level roles for students or recent graduates gaining research experience, while Research Assistants typically hold a degree and support ongoing research projects. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but the Research Trainee is more focused on training and learning, whereas the Research Assistant has more defined responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Research Trainee, you need a solid foundation in research methods, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, often supported by a relevant degree or ongoing enrollment in an academic program. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and literature databases is typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative and independent research settings. These competencies ensure that research is conducted accurately and efficiently, contributing to credible and impactful results.

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

The most popular types of Research jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Research Trainee jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Research Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,413 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Genomics and Multi-omics Senior Laboratory Research Specialist, Biology

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia's College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences seeks applications for a full-time Senior Laboratory Research Specialist to provide genomic and multi-omic technical support, training, and consultation to research groups across the Department and, as demand warrants, elsewhere in the College. The position reconstitutes and expands the Department's genomics support beyond traditional DNA library preparation to encompass single-cell and single-nucleus methods, epigenomics, spatial transcriptomics, and multi-omic sample preparation.
The Senior Laboratory Research Specialist works with laboratories throughout the Department-using departmental and laboratory-hosted instrumentation-to design and execute experiments, train personnel, and build shared technical capacity. Projects are undertaken on a fee-for-service basis with faculty and departmental oversight. Broad service across the Department's research areas, and across a wide range of organisms and sample types, is a core expectation of the role, as is the flexibility to grow with the Department's evolving technical needs. Additional technical specialist positions in complementary areas are anticipated.
Duties and responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Consulting with faculty, staff, and trainees on experimental design, platform selection, sample and library QC strategy, cost, and feasibility.
  • Preparing next-generation sequencing libraries across a range of applications: bulk RNA-seq, genomic DNA, and amplicon libraries; single-cell and single-nucleus RNA-seq and multi-omic methods (e.g., 10x Genomics, Parse Biosciences); epigenomic assays (ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq/CUT&RUN, bisulfite-seq); and spatial transcriptomics.
  • Extraction and quality control for nucleic acids from diverse tissues, species, and sample types-including low-input, degraded, and non-traditional model organism samples-by real-time PCR/qPCR, fluorometry, and automated electrophoresis (Agilent TapeStation).
  • Performing in-house Illumina MiSeq or Nanopore sequencing; coordinating submissions to and negotiating rates with external sequencing providers; preparing samples for proteomic and metabolomic analysis in coordination with other facilities.
  • Performing of standard sample-to-result data handling (e.g., demultiplexing, read quality control, alignment, and generation of count or feature matrices).
  • Training users across the Department: personalized, bench-side instruction for undergraduate researchers, graduate students, postdocs, and staff, together with periodic workshops; developing and maintaining protocols and best-practice documentation.
  • Coordinating use of departmental and laboratory-hosted instrumentation across research groups; maintaining equipment inventories, service contracts, and maintenance plans; implementing cost-reduction strategies (bulk purchasing, pooled service contracts, negotiated discounts, avoidance of redundant purchases).
  • Purchasing and maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment; service unit tracking and monthly billing; contributing to the development of operating procedures and rates in consultation with departmental faculty and leadership.
  • Providing support, as departmental needs evolve, in adjacent molecular biology methods including molecular cloning and plasmid construction, PCR, qPCR, and digital droplet PCR, genotyping, and in situ hybridization.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree.
  • Experience: 5+ years of relevant experience required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or M.S. in molecular biology, genomics, genetics, or a related field.
  • Strong background in molecular biology techniques, with demonstrated ability to follow, adapt, and develop laboratory protocols.
  • Hands-on experience with multiple methods of sequencing library preparation, including single-cell or single-nucleus methods and, ideally, at least one epigenomic or spatial approach; experience with real-time PCR/qPCR and automated electrophoresis (Agilent TapeStation or equivalent).
  • Experience supporting multiple independent research groups, and the ability to work effectively across diverse organisms, sample types, and scientific questions, including non-model systems.
  • Broad molecular biology and biochemistry skills beyond core genomics-for example cloning, digital droplet PCR, genotyping, or in situ hybridization-with flexibility to apply them as departmental needs evolve.
  • Experience in pre-processing of sequencing reads and standard analysis methods (coverage, quality, mutations); working proficiency at the command line and in R and/or Python.
  • Demonstrated teaching, mentoring, or training experience, and enthusiasm for building technical skills in others.
  • Demonstrated analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience with spreadsheets, ordering, and budget management.
  • Excellent communication skills, ability to work independently, and ability to set and communicate priorities transparently among many stakeholders.

Physical Demands
This position can spend extensive periods of time standing while conducting experiments, and requires keyboarding and other bench work requiring fine finger manipulation.
Salary Range
The anticipated hiring range is $76,000-$85,000 annually, commensurate with education and experience.
Position Type & Work Location
This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits . This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site. To learn more about UVA and the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Application Timeline
Application review will begin after July 22, 2026.
Additional Requirements
  • Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
  • This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship.
  • This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.

How to Apply
Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R00XXXXX.
Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
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.
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.
Contact
  • For questions about the position, please contact Dave Parichy at dmp6n@virginia.edu
  • For questions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman at jf2sw@virginia.edu.

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