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Science Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Market Research Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... * Assist with developing client PowerPoint presentations, memos, and reports * Help create clear ... Undergraduate degree in social sciences, environmental studies, business, or a related field * 0-2 ...

Science Teacher

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$46K - $60K/yr

Identify student learning needs and collaborate with staff to support academic success. * Assist students with scientific research projects and science-related activities. * Communicate regularly ...

Showing results 41-60

Science Research Assistant information

What is a science research assistant?

Science Research Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers in conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often help with literature reviews, data entry, and the preparation of research reports or presentations. Their work is essential for ensuring research projects run smoothly and efficiently, allowing lead researchers to focus on complex tasks and analysis. Science Research Assistants typically work in academic, government, or private research settings and may specialize in fields such as biology, chemistry, or environmental science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a science research assistant?

To thrive as a Science Research Assistant, you need a solid background in scientific principles, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant science field. Familiarity with lab equipment, statistical software (such as SPSS or R), and data management systems is often required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you excel in collaborative research environments. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, reliable results, and smooth project workflows in scientific research settings.

What are some typical challenges science research assistants face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Science Research Assistants often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in time management and prioritization. Balancing data collection, experiment preparation, and documentation requires strong organizational skills and clear communication with supervisors and team members. It's common to encounter shifting deadlines or competing priorities, so proactively seeking clarification on expectations and maintaining detailed records can help manage workload efficiently. Collaborating with colleagues and regularly updating your principal investigator ensures alignment and smoother project progression.

Can I be a science research assistant without a PhD?

Science research assistants typically do not need a PhD; most positions require a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Relevant skills such as laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with scientific tools are often more important than advanced degrees for entry-level roles.

How to become a science research assistant?

To become a science research assistant, candidates typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and familiarity with scientific tools; some positions may require prior research experience or internships. Strong organizational and communication skills are also important for supporting research projects effectively.

What qualifications do I need to be a science research assistant?

A science research assistant typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Strong laboratory skills, familiarity with research methodologies, and attention to detail are important; some positions may require experience with specific tools or software like data analysis programs.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Science Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Science Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Post-Doctoral Research Assistant

Amherst College

Amherst, VA

$20.87 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Amherst College rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Amherst has taken a leadership role among highly selective liberal arts colleges and universities in successfully diversifying the racial, socio-economic, and geographic profile of its student body. The College is similarly committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration and staff.

Job Description:

Amherst College invites applications for the Post-Doctoral Research Assistant (Chemistry) position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $20.87 - $22.00 per hour.

The salary offered will vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to relevant education, training, and experience, tenure status, and other nondiscriminatory business considerations. Amherst College is pleased to provide a comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package that meets the needs of staff and faculty and their families. Click here for Benefits Information.

This position is a full-time, limited-term, post-doctoral research assistant in the Wiscons lab for the period from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028. The primary responsibilities will involve executing and publishing an independent research project, partnering with current Amherst College undergraduates to help move forward their thesis research projects, and training new undergraduate research students. The position will last for 12 months with the opportunity for renewal.

Summary of Responsibilities:

Lab-Based Chemistry Research

  • Execute basic air-free and moisture-free organic reactions

  • Perform routine separations and characterization of synthesized materials

Data Analysis and Scientific Writing

  • Analyze 1 H NMR and GCMS data

  • Complete literature review

  • Will contribute to the writing of research articles and grants submitted by the lab

  • Design figures using a suite of software, including Excel, ChemDraw, MNova, and Illustrator

Lab Maintenance and Other Duties as Assigned

  • Maintain a clean and safe lab space, wash glassware, manage chemical waste, etc.

Qualifications:

Required

  • Master's Degree in Chemistry

  • Must have at least three years of experience executing supervised synthetic organic chemistry research

  • Demonstrated interest in carrying out independent research

  • Excellent organizational skills as well as strong verbal and written communication

  • Ability to work collaboratively and the desire to train and support undergraduate students with various levels of research experience

  • Successful completion of required reference and background checks

  • An acceptable criminal offender records information (CORI) check

Preferred

  • Experience with NMR, GCMS, Excel, ChemDraw, MNova, and Adobe Illustrator

  • Experience mentoring undergraduate research students

Interested candidates are asked to submit a resume and cover letter online at https://amherst.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Amherst_Jobs. Please be sure to upload all requested documents prior to clicking Submit. Applications cannot be revised once submitted. (Current employees and students should apply by clicking on the Jobs Hub icon from their Workday home screen.) Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Amherst College is committed to an inclusive hiring process and will provide reasonable accommodations for candidates throughout the application and interview process upon request.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.



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