Research Health Science Specialist VA Jobs 2026 Salary
INTRODUCTION
Research Health Science Specialist VA jobs 2026 provide an excellent opportunity for healthcare professionals, researchers, and science graduates seeking a federal career with the Veterans Health Administration. This specialized government position supports medical research programs, scientific investigations, healthcare improvement initiatives, and research operations that benefit U.S. veterans.
The Veterans Health Administration is one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States and regularly hires qualified professionals for research-focused roles. The Research Health Science Specialist position offers a competitive salary range of $62,297 to $80,991 per year and is designed for candidates with academic backgrounds in medical fields, health sciences, or related disciplines.
This federal government jobs USA opportunity is suitable for candidates who have experience in research coordination, healthcare studies, scientific analysis, clinical research support, or related areas. Applicants must meet specific education and specialized experience requirements based on the GS grade level.
Interested candidates can apply through the official USAJOBS portal before Friday, July 17, 2026. Applicants must provide required educational transcripts, a detailed federal resume, and supporting documents demonstrating their qualifications.
This article provides complete details about the Veterans Health Administration Research Health Science Specialist recruitment, including eligibility criteria, salary information, selection process, application steps, important dates, preparation tips, and frequently asked questions.
QUICK FACTS
Organization | Veterans Health Administration
Post Name | Research Health Science Specialist
Vacancies | See official notification
Salary | $62,297-$80,991 per year
Apply Start | Not specified
Apply End | Friday, July 17, 2026
Official Site | USAJOBS.gov
DETAILED ELIGIBILITY
Candidates applying for the Research Health Science Specialist position with the Veterans Health Administration must meet federal qualification requirements established for scientific and healthcare research positions. Applicants must demonstrate the required education and specialized experience based on the grade level being considered.
Age Limit:
The official notification does not specify a separate minimum or maximum age limit. Applicants must satisfy general federal employment requirements and be legally eligible to work for the United States government.
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must meet the basic education requirement by possessing a bachelor’s degree or graduate/higher-level degree with a major field of study related to medical science, health sciences, or allied sciences appropriate to the work of the Research Health Science Specialist position.
Acceptable academic backgrounds may include fields related to:
- Health sciences.
- Medical sciences.
- Biomedical research.
- Public health.
- Clinical research.
- Allied healthcare disciplines.
Applicants must provide official transcripts showing the degree awarded and the date the degree was conferred. Transcripts are required as part of the application process.
Experience Requirements:
In addition to education requirements, candidates must meet specialized experience requirements based on the GS grade level.
For GS-9 qualification, applicants generally need:
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level.
- Experience supporting health research projects.
- Experience collecting, analyzing, or managing scientific data.
- Experience assisting with research activities and healthcare studies.
Specialized experience may include:
- Coordinating research activities.
- Supporting clinical or scientific investigations.
- Preparing research documentation.
- Analyzing healthcare information.
- Assisting researchers with study operations.
Category-Wise Eligibility:
Eligible applicants may include:
- U.S. citizens meeting qualification requirements.
- Federal employees eligible under applicable hiring authorities.
- Candidates qualifying through federal recruitment programs.
- Veterans eligible under preference programs where applicable.
Applicants should carefully review the official USAJOBS announcement because qualification requirements may vary depending on grade level, location, and appointment type.
VACANCY BREAKDOWN
The official notification does not provide a detailed vacancy distribution by state, facility, or applicant category. Candidates should check the USAJOBS announcement for the latest vacancy information.
Category | Vacancies
Total Vacancies | See official notification
State-Wise Distribution | Not specified
Department | Veterans Health Administration
Position Grade | GS-9 level requirements
SALARY AND PAY SCALE
The Research Health Science Specialist position offers an annual salary range of $62,297 to $80,991. The final salary depends on the selected grade level, professional qualifications, experience, duty location, and federal locality adjustments.
This position follows the federal General Schedule pay structure. The GS system determines compensation based on job responsibilities, skill requirements, and experience level.
Salary details
- Minimum annual salary: $62,297
- Maximum annual salary: $80,991
Estimated monthly gross salary:
- Lower salary range: Approximately $5,191 per month.
- Higher salary range: Approximately $6,749 per month.
Actual in-hand salary may vary after deductions, including:
- Federal income taxes.
- Retirement contributions.
- Health insurance premiums.
- Life insurance deductions.
- Other employee benefit selections.
Federal employees may receive additional benefits such as:
- Federal retirement programs.
- Health and dental insurance options.
- Paid vacation leave.
- Sick leave.
- Federal holidays.
- Career advancement opportunities.
- Training and professional development.
The total compensation package makes this position attractive for professionals seeking stable employment in healthcare research and federal service.
SELECTION PROCESS
The Veterans Health Administration Research Health Science Specialist recruitment follows a federal hiring process focused on qualifications, education, experience, and suitability for the position.
The expected selection stages include:
- Application Screening:
Recruitment officials review applications to verify whether candidates meet basic education and specialized experience requirements.
- Resume Evaluation:
Applicants are evaluated based on research experience, healthcare knowledge, scientific skills, and relevant professional achievements.
- Qualification Assessment:
Human resources specialists determine whether candidates meet federal qualification standards for the required grade level.
- Interview:
Qualified candidates may be invited for an interview. Questions may focus on research methods, healthcare programs, data analysis, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
- Document Verification:
Candidates must submit supporting documents, including transcripts, resumes, and proof of eligibility.
- Final Selection:
The selecting official chooses the candidate based on qualifications, interview results, experience, and organizational requirements.
A written exam and physical fitness test are not generally required for this research position unless specifically mentioned in the official announcement.
EXAM PATTERN AND SYLLABUS
The Research Health Science Specialist recruitment does not include a traditional written examination. Selection is primarily based on education, specialized experience, resume review, and interviews.
Candidates should prepare by understanding important research and healthcare concepts related to the position.
Important preparation areas include:
Health Science Research:
- Medical research principles.
- Clinical research methods.
- Healthcare data management.
- Scientific documentation.
Research Administration:
- Research project coordination.
- Study procedures.
- Compliance requirements.
- Research reporting.
Data Analysis:
- Basic statistical concepts.
- Healthcare data interpretation.
- Research findings evaluation.
Communication Skills:
- Scientific report writing.
- Research presentations.
- Collaboration with healthcare professionals.
Exam Details:
Exam Type | Not specified
Subjects | Health science research and healthcare operations
Marks | Not applicable
Duration | Not applicable
Negative Marking | Not applicable
Applicants should focus on demonstrating research expertise and preparing a strong federal application rather than studying for a written examination.
HOW TO APPLY
Candidates interested in the Research Health Science Specialist position must complete the application process through the official USAJOBS website.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official USAJOBS Announcement:
Open the official recruitment page and review all position details, requirements, and instructions.
- Create or Update USAJOBS Profile:
Applicants should maintain an updated profile containing personal information, education history, employment experience, and skills.
- Review Eligibility Requirements:
Confirm that your educational background and specialized experience meet the required qualification standards.
- Prepare Required Documents:
Applicants should collect:
- Federal resume.
- Official transcripts.
- Degree completion proof.
- Employment verification documents.
- Veterans preference documents if applicable.
- Other supporting documents requested in the announcement.
- Complete the Online Application:
Fill in all required sections accurately.
- Upload Supporting Files:
Attach transcripts, resume, and other required documents in the correct format.
- Review Application Information:
Verify personal details, education information, work history, and uploaded documents.
- Submit Before Deadline:
Submit the completed application before Friday, July 17, 2026.
- Save Application Confirmation:
Keep the USAJOBS confirmation email and application details for future reference.
- Track Application Status:
Monitor your USAJOBS account for updates, interview requests, and additional instructions.
Application Fee:
No application fee is mentioned for this federal recruitment. Applicants should confirm current instructions through the official USAJOBS portal.
IMPORTANT DATES
Event | Date
Application Start Date | Not specified
Application Closing Date | Friday, July 17, 2026
Exam Date | Not announced
Interview Date | To be announced
Result Date | To be announced
PREVIOUS YEAR CUT-OFFS
Previous year cut-off marks are not available for the Research Health Science Specialist recruitment because the position does not use a traditional competitive written examination system.
Selection is based on federal qualification standards, education requirements, specialized experience, resume evaluation, and interview performance. Candidates should focus on meeting the required academic qualifications and clearly presenting their research experience.
Applicants should check the official USAJOBS website for any future updates regarding qualification standards or selection requirements.
PREPARATION TIPS
Candidates preparing for Research Health Science Specialist VA jobs should focus on presenting strong scientific and healthcare research qualifications.
- Build a detailed federal resume: Highlight research projects, healthcare experience, scientific publications, data analysis work, and laboratory or clinical research activities.
- Prepare educational documents: Ensure transcripts clearly show degree completion dates and relevant coursework.
- Understand VA research operations: Learn about Veterans Health Administration healthcare programs and the role of research specialists.
- Improve research knowledge: Review clinical research methods, healthcare data management, and scientific documentation practices.
- Prepare for interviews: Practice explaining research experience, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and project coordination abilities.
- Organize application materials early: Federal applications require detailed documentation, so prepare all required files before the deadline.
A complete and accurate application can significantly improve the chances of being considered for this specialized federal healthcare position.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Research Health Science Specialist VA job?
A: A Research Health Science Specialist position supports healthcare research activities, scientific studies, data analysis, and research program operations within the Veterans Health Administration.
How to apply for Research Health Science Specialist jobs in USA?
A: Applicants should apply through USAJOBS by creating an account, preparing a federal resume, uploading transcripts and required documents, completing the online application, and submitting before the deadline.
What is the salary for Research Health Science Specialist jobs?
A: The salary range for this position is $62,297 to $80,991 per year depending on grade level, qualifications, and locality adjustments.
What degree is required for this VA research position?
A: Applicants need a bachelor’s or graduate-level degree in a field related to medical science, health sciences, or allied sciences appropriate to the position.
Are transcripts required for this application?
A: Yes. Official transcripts are required and must show the degree awarded and the date the degree was conferred.
Is there a written exam for this recruitment?
A: No written examination is mentioned. Selection is based on education, experience, application review, interviews, and document verification.
Who can apply for this Veterans Health Administration job?
A: Applicants who meet the education and experience requirements and satisfy federal employment eligibility rules may apply.
What experience helps for this position?
A: Experience in healthcare research, clinical studies, scientific analysis, research coordination, and healthcare data management can be beneficial.
What is the last date to apply?
A: The final application deadline is Friday, July 17, 2026.
Where can candidates apply?
A: Candidates can apply through the official USAJOBS portal using the Veterans Health Administration Research Health Science Specialist announcement.
DISCLAIMER
This article is provided for informational and government job notification purposes only. OnlineJobNews is not a government website and is not affiliated with the Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, or USAJOBS.
Job details, eligibility requirements, salary information, and deadlines may change according to official updates. Candidates must verify all information directly from the official USAJOBS announcement before applying.
Applicants are responsible for reviewing official instructions, confirming eligibility, preparing accurate documents, and completing the application process correctly. Always refer to official government sources for the latest and most accurate recruitment information.