Advance Your Career: Research Registered Nurse at the Richmond VA
Are you a Registered Nurse who is passionate about both patient care and medical discovery? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Richmond, Virginia, is looking for a motivated professional to join our team as a Research Registered Nurse. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of healthcare while providing the world-class support our nation’s Veterans deserve.
Job Responsibilities
As a Research Registered Nurse, you will be the bridge between clinical nursing and academic investigation. Your primary duties will include:
- Study Coordination: Managing the day-to-day operations of approved research protocols.
- Patient Assessment: Evaluating potential research candidates and obtaining informed consent.
- Collaboration: Working alongside interdisciplinary teams of physicians, scientists, and clinical staff.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all research activities adhere to strict ethical and federal regulatory guidelines.
- Patient Advocacy: Acting as a liaison to ensure the safety and satisfaction of Veterans participating in studies.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A graduate of an accredited school of professional nursing (ACEN or CCNE).
- Licensure: You must hold a current, full, active, and unrestricted RN license in any U.S. State or territory.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory for patient safety.
- Compliance: Candidates must pass a physical examination, drug screening, and background investigation.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $81,414 – $162,138 per year, depending on your education and depth of clinical experience. Your specific grade level will be determined by the hiring board based on your professional background.
| Level | Required Experience/Education |
|---|---|
| Nurse I | Associate Degree or Diploma; specialized experience varies |
| Nurse II | BSN + 2 years or MSN + 1 year specialized experience |
| Nurse III | Master's + 2 years of specialized experience |
Benefits of Working at the VA
The VA provides a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security:
- Paid Time Off: Enjoy 26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Benefit from a traditional federal pension and a 401(k) plan with up to 5% agency matching.
- Insurance: Access federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the VA-provided clinical resume document to ensure your application passes the initial screening.
- Highlight Dimensions: Make sure your resume explicitly reflects your experience in Practice, Patient-Driven Care, Leadership, Professional Development, and Evidence-Based Practice.
- Double-Check Requirements: Ensure your nursing license is current and that you have all documents uploaded before the closing date.
Choosing a career at the Richmond VA means becoming part of an elite team dedicated to innovation and service. If you are ready to combine your nursing skills with medical research, we encourage you to apply today. Your expertise could be the key to the next major breakthrough in Veteran healthcare.
Apply now and help us honor those who served.
Why This Research (Registered Nurse) Job Matters
Advance the future of medical discovery as a Research Registered Nurse with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Leverage your clinical expertise to make a lasting impact on Veteran care in Richmond.
Research (Registered Nurse) Job Overview
The Richmond Veterans Affairs Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Research Registered Nurse to join our interdisciplinary team. In this pivotal role, you will coordinate clinical research studies, manage regulatory compliance, and provide high-quality nursing care to Veterans. This position is perfect for a nurse looking to transition into a research-focused environment where your contributions directly influence evidence-based practices and clinical outcomes for those who have served our country.
Requirements for Research (Registered Nurse)
- U.S. Citizenship (non-citizens may be hired if qualified U.S. citizens are unavailable)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Graduate of an ACEN or CCNE accredited professional nursing program
- Current, full, active, and unrestricted Registered Nurse license in any U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to a background investigation and drug screening
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a mandatory condition of employment
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Research (Registered Nurse)
- Experience in clinical study coordination or regulatory nursing
- Demonstrated proficiency in nursing research and evidence-based practice
- Advanced nursing education (BSN or MSN) is preferred for higher grade levels
- Proven ability to manage complex patient care situations with emotional and mental stability
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with regular increases
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, and dental insurance
- ✓Federal retirement pension and 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Generous leave: 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays annually
- ✓Long-term care insurance and term life insurance options
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and performance-based awards
💡 How to Apply Research (Registered Nurse) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Research (Registered Nurse) Job
- Ensure you have a current resume that highlights your nursing experience and clinical skills.
- Download and complete the required Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Create or log into your account on USAJobs.
- Complete the occupational questionnaire linked in the announcement.
- Upload your resume and all required supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, licenses, DD-214 if applicable).
- Submit your application package by the closing date of September 14, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and confirmation notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; avoid general descriptions and focus on quantifiable clinical achievements.
- Review your application for completeness; missing documents like licensure proof or transcripts can lead to disqualification.
- Use the standard clinical resume template provided by the VA to ensure all required data points are addressed.
- Check your USAJobs status dashboard frequently once the application period closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need research experience to apply?
While research experience is highly beneficial, the role requires a strong foundation in clinical nursing. We provide an environment to develop research competencies, provided you meet the basic licensure and education requirements.
Can I work remotely for this position?
No, this is not a virtual or telework-eligible position. The role requires on-site presence at the Richmond VAMC to facilitate research activities and interact with the interdisciplinary care team.
How is my grade level determined?
Grade levels (Nurse I-III) are determined based on your specific education, years of specialized professional nursing experience, and how well you meet the five dimensions of nursing practice evaluated by the hiring board.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military and their families. At the Richmond VA Medical Center, we prioritize compassionate, whole-health care, blending advanced clinical technology with a mission-driven environment.