Research Associate and Project Manager

Job Description

The Department of Population Health Sciences at Virginia Tech is currently seeking a Research Associate and Project Manager. The researcher will play a key role in conducting and coordinating activities for a new NIH-funded study evaluating how the use of drinking water filters may improve health outcomes among individuals living in rural regions reliant on well or spring water sources. This position involves leading and coordinating research activities, including study implementation, data collection, quality assurance, and collaboration with community and academic partners.

In partnership with the principal investigator, the incumbent may contribute to aspects of the design and execution of the research program, ensuring project milestones and deliverables are met in alignment with sponsor expectations. Responsibilities include coordinating field operations, maintaining research protocols, overseeing data management to ensure scientific integrity and compliance with ethical standards.

In addition to the project coordination, the incumbent may engage in scholarly activities, such as contributions to the preparation of manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication, development and delivery of conference materials and presentations, contributions to reports, and grant-related documentation. This position offers opportunities for professional growth in environmental health research, community-based field studies, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Required Qualifications

Master's degree, or Bachelor's degree if the candidate has substantial and highly relevant experience in lieu of an advanced degree. Experience conducting research. Project management experience. Evidence of effective communication and teamwork skills. Ability to work independently as well as with others and teams. Ability to coordinate and lead data collection efforts and supervise lab sample chain of custody and travel logistics. Valid driver’s license and good driving record. To excel, the person in this position should be highly detail-oriented and possess excellent organizational, planning, time-management, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work outdoors, standing, walking and bending, traversing uneven terrain, and being exposed to a variety of environmental conditions. Ability to lift and move equipment weighing 25+ pounds. Must wear personal protective equipment at times as appropriate.

Ability to travel to the southwest region of Virginia, approximately two or three days per week on average. Occasional overnight and weekend engagement as dictated by the research project.

Preferred Qualifications

Project Management Professional (PMP) or similar certification. Experience administering research surveys and/or working in a research laboratory. Experience with clinical trials. Experience with program monitoring and evaluation. Experience working with database management software such as REDCap. Familiarity with the far southwest region of Virginia.

Pay Band

Faculty; Salary

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Salaried; commensurate with experience 

Hours per week

40+

Review Date

11/17/2025

Additional Information

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

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight