Research Associate

Job Description Prof. Debswapna Bhattacharya’s research group in the Department of Computer Science at Virginia Tech (https://people.cs.vt.edu/dbhattacharya/) seeks to recruit a Research Associate in the area of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Biomolecular Modeling. The Research Associate will focus on developing and applying AI methodologies to drive advances in drug discovery and biomolecular design. This associate will contribute and help to lead the group’s mission in leveraging AI for scientific discovery. The Research Associate will conduct groundbreaking research that transforms current AI for Science paradigms. They will focus on multidisciplinary applications in biomolecular modeling and design, leading to a step-change in Scientific Machine Learning (SciML). The Research Associate will be expected to collaborate with members of the group as well as other stakeholders and to perform modest service duties around missions of the group, such as training and engagement. Required Qualifications Advanced degree in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Statistics, Mathematics, Biophysics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or related fields. Substantial programming experience. Experience with research projects in the fields of AI and/or Machine Learning Excellent communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated record of excellence in advancing artificial intelligence, characterized by a strong publication history in top-tier venues and a research background outlining significant contributions to AI that demonstrate high potential for research impact. Published research experience in AI for scientific discovery and/or AI-driven biomolecular modeling and/or scientific machine learning. Overtime Status Exempt: Not eligible for overtime Appointment Type Restricted Salary Information $64,000-$74,000 Hours per week 40 Review Date 09/09/2026 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 undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually. Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development. 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 Joe Morgan at jmorgan99@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.