Research Associate, Research Scientist, Research Assistant​/Associate

Job Description

The Research Associate will contribute to research activities within plant breeding and virology programs, supporting various research initiatives. The position involves molecular genotyping, laboratory and field-based research, data collection and analysis, and assisting in reporting and publication of research findings. The individual will support day-to-day laboratory operations, collaborate with faculty, staff, and students, and assist in maintaining compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

The successful candidate will work with Virginia Tech faculty, staff, and students, assist in the concept and design of research projects, collect lab and field samples, develop analytical methods, conduct lab experiments and analyze data. In addition, the candidate will assist in supervision of undergraduate and graduate students, interact with collaborators, write scientific reports, and may present at professional meetings and publish peer-reviewed manuscripts.

• Master’s degree in plant science, agronomy, genetics, molecular biology, or closely related field, or a Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, SNP genotyping, or SSR analysis
• Experience working in laboratory and/or field research environments
• Ability to collect, manage, and analyze research data
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting

• Experience with plant breeding programs, particularly soybean or small grains
• Experience with HPLC or biochemical analysis techniques
• Experience with laboratory management, including equipment maintenance and inventory tracking
• Experience supervising or training students or research assistants
• Experience contributing to grant proposals, reports, or scientific publications

• Overtime Status:
  Exempt:
  Not eligible for overtime
• Appointment Type:
  Restricted
• Salary Information: 57,783 - 61,293
• Hours per week: 40
• Review Date: 06/21/2026

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

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 Dr. David Haakat at dhaak during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.