Research Associate

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 57,783 - 61,293; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a Research Associate to support research activities within plant breeding and virology programs. Key responsibilities include molecular genotyping, laboratory and field-based research, data collection, and analysis.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in plant science, agronomy, or a closely related field, and experience with molecular biology techniques. This position entails collaborating with faculty and students and contributing to the publication of research findings.

Qualifications

• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, SNP genotyping.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• Experience working in laboratory and/or field research environments.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research activities in plant breeding and virology programs.
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations and maintain compliance with safety standards.
• Assist in the concept and design of research projects and analyze data.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Data collection and analysis

Strong organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Master’s degree in plant science, agronomy, genetics, or related field

Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience

Job description

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.

Required Qualifications

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Additional Information

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

EEO Statement

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 Haak at [e-mail] during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.