Research Jobs in Virginia
Research jobs in Virginia are in strong demand, concentrated in federal contracting, defense intelligence, biomedical sciences, and public policy across a market that rivals any in the country. Most hiring is in and around the Northern Virginia corridor, Richmond, and the Hampton Roads region, where organizations like MITRE Corporation, Booz Allen Hamilton, and the Institute for Defense Analyses maintain deep research workforces. The most consistent openings are in defense and national security research, health and life sciences research, and policy analysis. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Air Warfare Analyst – Operational Test and Evaluation
The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst to support the Department of War's assessment of the operational effectiveness, suitability, survivability, and lethality of Air Warfare-related Major Defense Acquisition Programs. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that provides objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages independent thinking and objective results. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.
Responsibilities:
The Analyst will support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials regarding the operational evaluation of airborne early warning, fighter, and bomber aircraft, air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, spectrum warfare systems, and battle management systems. The position involves analyzing the design, execution, and results of operational testing and associated modeling and simulation activity, and providing an independent assessment to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation within the Department of War. Close interaction with officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of tests is required. Travel is required.
Required Qualifications:
-
Educational Requirements:
- PhD in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or...
- PhD in a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 4+ years of operational or commercial experience or...
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 6+ years of operational or commercial experience.
- Candidates must have demonstrated computational and data analysis skills.
- Proficiency in Python, R, or similar data analytics tools and software.
- Experience with military or civilian aircraft operations, acquisition, or testing is strongly preferred.
- Experience with advanced aviation technologies, such as low observable technologies, air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, advanced sensors, or data links, is desired.
- Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for obtaining a TS/SCI clearance. Having a current TS/SCI is desired.
- Travel is required, up to 25%.
Why work at IDA?
- Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
- Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
- Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications;
- A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
- Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
- Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
- A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume.
-
The application process consists of three interviews.
- A short screening call with HR;
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
- Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
-
Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
- 3 letters of recommendation; and
- A writing sample.
Benefits
At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.
Pay
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353-$277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/compliance-assistance/self-id-forms-video
Air Warfare Analyst – Operational Test and Evaluation
The Operational Evaluation Division (OED) has an immediate career opening for an Analyst to support the Department of War's assessment of the operational effectiveness, suitability, survivability, and lethality of Air Warfare-related Major Defense Acquisition Programs. The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a non-profit corporation that provides objective analyses of national security issues, particularly those requiring scientific and technical expertise. IDA research staff members conduct multi-disciplinary analyses in an environment that encourages rigorous, independent research on challenging and complex issues. IDA takes great pride in the high caliber and timeliness of its analyses, which are produced in an atmosphere that encourages independent thinking and objective results. Work at IDA is conducted in a team environment and often involves a multi-disciplinary approach. IDA provides an inclusive work environment and a comprehensive, competitive salary and benefits package.
Responsibilities:
The Analyst will support and advise mid- and senior-level civilian and military officials regarding the operational evaluation of airborne early warning, fighter, and bomber aircraft, air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, spectrum warfare systems, and battle management systems. The position involves analyzing the design, execution, and results of operational testing and associated modeling and simulation activity, and providing an independent assessment to the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation within the Department of War. Close interaction with officials responsible for the planning, development, and execution of tests is required. Travel is required.
Required Qualifications:
-
Educational Requirements:
- PhD in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or...
- PhD in a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 4+ years of operational or commercial experience or...
- Master’s degree in Engineering, Science, or Applied Mathematics or a quantitative interdisciplinary program that encompasses one of those areas of focus coupled with 6+ years of operational or commercial experience.
- Candidates must have demonstrated computational and data analysis skills.
- Proficiency in Python, R, or similar data analytics tools and software.
- Experience with military or civilian aircraft operations, acquisition, or testing is strongly preferred.
- Experience with advanced aviation technologies, such as low observable technologies, air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, advanced sensors, or data links, is desired.
- Candidates selected will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for obtaining a TS/SCI clearance. Having a current TS/SCI is desired.
- Travel is required, up to 25%.
Why work at IDA?
- Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
- Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
- Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external training, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications;
- A strong employee and corporate culture of work-life balance, including commitment to average 40-hour work weeks and expectation of communication only during core business hours;
- Organization-wide commitment to diversity in the workplace and providing a working environment free from discrimination, by fostering a culture of active citizenship and implementing data-driven processes of continuous feedback and learning.
- Flat corporate structure that encourages collaboration and ability to choose your own projects.
- A brand-new facility located in Alexandria’s high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include cafeteria, gym, and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
- Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes up to $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.
What are the next steps?
- Complete the application and submit your resume.
-
The application process consists of three interviews.
- A short screening call with HR;
- A 30 min – 60 min screening call with researchers; and
- Full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving a presentation on a research project.
-
Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
- Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
- 3 letters of recommendation; and
- A writing sample.
Benefits
At IDA, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive benefits package that ensures the well-being and security of our staff and their families. We provide a range of medical plans as well as stand-alone dental and vision coverage. Our retirement plans are designed to secure the financial future of our staff, featuring a generous contribution of 10% of base salary to our Qualified Retirement Plan after six months of service. We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance with a flexible work environment, an Employee Assistance Plan, paid parental leave, 10 paid holidays, and generous paid time off. IDA encourages professional development and offers tuition reimbursement and other learning opportunities. Learn more about our robust benefit offerings here.
Pay
We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $113,353-$277,494. Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent’s experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
IDA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an email to employment@ida.org and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ofccp/compliance-assistance/self-id-forms-video
See All 119+ Research Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research JobsResearch Jobs by City in Virginia
Where Virginia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Job Market in Virginia
A snapshot from current Virginia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- University of Virginia14
- Virginia Commonwealth University14
- Virginia Tech7
- Institute for Defense Analyses5
- George Mason University4
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What Virginia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research jobs across Virginia.
- Active security clearance or eligibility for federal clearance required for many Virginia research positions
- Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field such as biology, public policy, or engineering
- Experience designing and executing research studies, literature reviews, or program evaluations
- Proficiency with data analysis tools such as R, Python, SAS, SPSS, or STATA
- Strong written communication skills including technical reports and peer-reviewed publication experience
- Familiarity with federal research compliance standards including IRB protocols and grant reporting requirements
Research Jobs in Virginia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research in Virginia?
Most research positions in Virginia require at minimum a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, with master's or doctoral credentials expected for senior or independent roles. No single state-issued research license governs the field, but many specialized areas carry their own requirements: clinical researchers may need IRB certification, defense researchers typically need a federal security clearance processed through the appropriate agency, and policy analysts in state government may need credentials aligned with specific program areas. Building a record of published work, funded projects, or technical reports strengthens candidates significantly in Virginia's competitive market.
Which companies hire researchs in Virginia?
Companies currently hiring researchs in Virginia include University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Virginia Tech, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Virginia's heavy concentration of federal agencies and prime contractors means many research roles involve government-sponsored programs in defense, intelligence, health, and technology policy.
Which Virginia cities have the most research jobs?
Arlington, Charlottesville, and Virginia have the most research openings in Virginia. Northern Virginia leads because of its density of federal agencies, defense contractors, and federally funded research organizations, while Richmond draws biomedical, policy, and university-affiliated researchers, and Hampton Roads supports a substantial naval and defense research presence anchored by major military installations in the region.
Are there remote research jobs in Virginia?
Yes, and more than most fields. About 38% of research openings tied to Virginia are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting how much analytical and writing-intensive research translates well to distributed work. The roles most likely to be fully remote are literature reviews, policy analysis, data research, and secondary data studies, while hands-on laboratory or classified facility research requires in-person presence.
How can I get hired as a research in Virginia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through research assistant or junior analyst positions at Virginia's federally funded research centers and universities. Organizations like MITRE, George Mason University, and Virginia Commonwealth University regularly hire early-career candidates into structured research programs or graduate research assistant roles. Lateral entry from adjacent roles such as data analyst, program coordinator, or laboratory technician is common. Earning an IRB human subjects research certification or completing a graduate certificate in a quantitative method gives candidates a concrete credential that addresses the experience gap hiring managers consistently flag.
Where can I find and apply to research jobs in Virginia?
You can find and apply to research jobs in Virginia on Migrate Mate, which lists current Virginia openings across industries and experience levels. Search the listings to find roles that match your background, then apply directly to the ones that fit. No signup is required to see open positions.
See All 119+ Research Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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