Alexandria Research Jobs Overview
Do you often ask questions that are difficult to answer? Are you an introvert with a curious mind? If so, you may want to consider a career in research, where you can get paid to search for answers to the unknown. Research jobs span all scientific fields, from the social sciences to natural science.
There are many different types of research positions in both higher education and the private sector. Researchers may choose to work in academia so they can enjoy independence—at a commercial lab, your aim as a researcher is to serve a business's goals rather than to answer your own burning questions.
Common academic research positions include:
- Research assistant (RA): RAs assist senior researchers in collecting and analyzing data, reviewing literature, preparing reports, and writing articles. For studies involving human subjects, research assistants also recruit and interview study participants.
- Research associate: Being a research associate is often a postdoc job—a temporary position which allows Ph.D. graduates to continue their training under a supervisor.
- Research fellow: Research fellows typically work on a specific study. This means that the salary is paid by grants or an endowment and the position is temporary.
- Research scientist: Research scientists plan and conduct experiments, interpret results, and write academic articles. They also supervise junior researchers and work on grant proposals and presentations. Some research scientists at academic institutions are also part-time professors.
You can expand your search for higher ed jobs by checking out these similar positions:
About Working in Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria is a city of around 159,000 people in northeast Virginia, looking out on the Potomac River, and only a few miles from Washington DC. It’s one of the oldest European settlements and was once George Washington's hometown. Today, Alexandria is a city that keeps growing and is bustling with all sorts of activities. It even made the top three Best Small Cities in the U.S. in 2020. We’re not surprised you’re here to find jobs in Alexandria.
The city has a vibrant, young vibe and offers entertainment for every age group. You can take a stroll in Old Town, reach the waterfront and dine in one of the many restaurants and bars there. You also have various local shopping options. Some of the most interesting museums you can find in town include Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. If you’re into art, check out Torpedo Factory Art Center. If you like nature you can opt for Ben Brenman Park or Dora Kelley Nature Park.
Looking to expand your job possibilities? Explore the opportunities in nearby Arlington, Washington DC, and Manassas as well.
Update Your Alexandria Research Resume
Since research positions require a lot of writing, having a well-written resume and cover letter is essential. Start by reading our resume writing tips and cover letter tips. Then learn more about what specifics to include in our examples of a research assistant cover letter and a research scientist resume.
How Much Do Research Jobs Pay in Alexandria, Virginia?
Got money on your mind? You should! Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth. Our Salary Tools can help you understand what you can expect to make in research jobs in Alexandria, Virginia, as well as the skills that can boost your value and what the next steps in your career might be. Right now, the median research associate pay in Alexandria is $80,611 per year, which is 25% higher than the national average.
Find Your Next Alexandria Research Job. Monster Can Help Get You Started
Are you prepared for a career in research? If so, set up your profile on Monster for free and begin clicking on those research jobs. When you sign up with us, you’ll receive custom job alerts and expert advice on how to negotiate your salary in Alexandria, how to nail your job interview, and more.