research job meaning

What does a researcher do?

Would you make a good researcher? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a Researcher?

A researcher is trained to conduct systematic and scientific investigations in a particular field of study. Researchers use a variety of techniques to collect and analyze data to answer research questions or test hypotheses. They are responsible for designing studies, collecting data, analyzing data, and interpreting the results. Researchers may work in a wide range of fields, including science, medicine, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and many others.

To become a researcher, individuals usually need to obtain a graduate degree in their chosen field of study. They may also need to gain experience working as an assistant or intern in a research setting before becoming a full-fledged researcher. Researchers may work in academic or industrial settings, or they may work independently as consultants or freelance researchers. Regardless of the setting, researchers play a vital role in advancing knowledge and finding solutions to real-world problems.

What does a Researcher do?

Researchers are essential to the advancement of knowledge in various fields, including science, technology, medicine, social sciences, and humanities. Their work involves conducting systematic investigations to gather data, analyze it, and draw meaningful conclusions. Through their research, they can identify new problems and challenges, develop innovative solutions, and test hypotheses to validate theories.

Researchers also play a critical role in improving existing practices and policies, identifying gaps in knowledge, and creating new avenues for future research. They provide valuable insights and information that can inform decision-making, shape public opinion, and drive progress in society.

Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of researchers can vary depending on the field of study and the type of research being conducted. However, here are some common duties and responsibilities that researchers are typically expected to fulfill:

• Develop research proposals: Developing a research proposal typically involves identifying a research question or problem, reviewing the relevant literature, selecting appropriate research methods and techniques, and outlining the expected outcomes of the research. Researchers must also ensure that their proposal aligns with the funding agency's objectives and guidelines.
• Conduct literature reviews: Literature reviews involve searching for and reviewing existing research papers, articles, books, and other relevant publications to identify gaps in knowledge and to build upon previous research. Researchers must ensure that they are using credible and reliable sources of information and that their review is comprehensive.
• Collect and analyze data: Collecting and analyzing data is a key aspect of research. This may involve designing and conducting experiments, surveys, interviews, or observations. Researchers must ensure that their data collection methods are valid and reliable, and that their analysis is appropriate and accurate.
• Ensure ethical considerations: Research ethics involve ensuring that the research is conducted in a manner that protects the rights, welfare, and dignity of all participants, as well as the environment. Researchers must obtain informed consent from human participants, ensure that animal research is conducted ethically and humanely, and comply with relevant regulations and guidelines.
• Communicate research findings: Researchers must communicate their research findings clearly and effectively to a range of audiences, including academic peers, policymakers, and the general public. This may involve writing research papers, presenting at conferences, and producing reports or other materials.
• Manage research projects: Managing a research project involves planning, organizing, and coordinating resources, timelines, and budgets to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget. Researchers must ensure that they have the necessary resources, such as funding, personnel, and equipment, and that they are managing these resources effectively.
• Collaborate with others: Collaboration is an important aspect of research, and researchers often work with other researchers, academic institutions, funding agencies, and industry partners to achieve research objectives. Collaboration can help to facilitate the sharing of resources, expertise, and knowledge.
• Stay up-to-date with developments in their field: Research is an evolving field, and researchers must stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in their field to ensure that their research remains relevant and impactful. This may involve attending conferences, workshops, and seminars, reading academic journals and other publications, and participating in professional development opportunities.

Types of Researchers There are many types of researchers, depending on their areas of expertise, research methods, and the types of questions they seek to answer. Here are some examples:

• Basic Researchers: These researchers focus on understanding fundamental concepts and phenomena in a particular field. Their work may not have immediate practical applications, but it lays the groundwork for applied research.
• Applied Researchers: These researchers seek to apply basic research findings to real-world problems and situations. They may work in fields such as engineering, medicine, or psychology.
• Clinical Researchers: These researchers conduct studies with human subjects to better understand disease, illness, and treatment options. They may work in hospitals, universities, or research institutes.
• Epidemiologists : These researchers study the spread and distribution of disease in populations, and work to develop strategies for disease prevention and control.
• Social Scientists: These researchers study human behavior and society, using methods such as surveys, experiments, and observations. They may work in fields such as psychology, sociology, or anthropology.
• Natural Scientists: These researchers study the natural world, including the physical, chemical, and biological processes that govern it. They may work in fields such as physics, chemistry, or biology.
• Data Scientists : These researchers use statistical and computational methods to analyze large datasets and derive insights from them. They may work in fields such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, or business analytics.
• Policy Researchers: These researchers study policy issues, such as healthcare, education, or environmental regulations, and work to develop evidence-based policy recommendations. They may work in government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations.

What is the workplace of a Researcher like?

The workplace of a researcher can vary greatly depending on the field and area of study. Researchers can work in a variety of settings, including academic institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies.

In academic settings, researchers often work in universities or research institutions, conducting experiments and analyzing data to develop new theories and insights into various fields of study. They may also teach courses and mentor students in their area of expertise.

In government agencies, researchers may work on projects related to public policy, health, and safety. They may be responsible for conducting research to support the development of new regulations or programs, analyzing data to assess the effectiveness of existing policies, or providing expertise on specific issues.

Non-profit organizations often employ researchers to study social and environmental issues, such as poverty, climate change, and human rights. These researchers may conduct surveys and collect data to understand the impact of various programs and initiatives, and use this information to advocate for policy changes or other interventions.

Private companies also employ researchers, particularly in industries such as technology and healthcare. These researchers may be responsible for developing new products, improving existing technologies, or conducting market research to understand consumer preferences and behaviors.

Regardless of the setting, researchers typically spend a significant amount of time conducting research, analyzing data, and communicating their findings through presentations, reports, and publications. They may also collaborate with other researchers or professionals in their field, attend conferences and workshops, and stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in their area of expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Academic writer vs researcher.

An academic writer is someone who produces written material for academic purposes, such as research papers, essays, and other scholarly works. Academic writers may work as freelance writers, editors, or as staff writers for academic institutions or publishers.

On the other hand, a researcher is someone who conducts original research to generate new knowledge or validate existing knowledge. Researchers may work in academic settings, government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations. They typically design and execute experiments, surveys, or other data collection methods, analyze the data, and draw conclusions based on their findings.

While there may be some overlap between the skills required for academic writing and research, they are distinct activities with different goals. Academic writers often rely on the research of others to support their arguments, while researchers generate new knowledge through their own experiments and data analysis. However, academic writers may also be researchers who write about their own research findings.

Continue reading

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

What They Do

• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

What does a Researcher do?

A researcher is responsible for collating, organizing, and verifying necessary information for a specific subject. Researchers' duties include analyzing data, gathering and comparing resources, ensuring facts, sharing findings with the whole research team, adhering to required methodologies, performing fieldwork as needed, and keeping critical information confidential. Researchers must be knowledgeable about the current market trends and align findings with the research goals. A researcher must show strong communication skills , as well as strong attention to detail and time-management skills to meet deadlines under minimal supervision.

• Responsibilities
• Skills And Traits
• Comparisions
• Types of Researcher

Researcher responsibilities

Researchers are responsible for conducting research projects, demonstrating new laboratory processes, and utilizing various techniques such as fluorescent microscopy and gel electrophoresis. They also analyze data using advanced statistical models and present results at conferences and seminars. In addition, researchers identify enhancements to user-interface design and conduct chemical and physical laboratory tests. According to Phillis Sheppard Ph.D. , E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Chair Professor of Religion, Psychology, and Culture and Womanist Thought at Vanderbilt University, researchers should also "plan for retirement now; do not wait until you are making the salary of your fantasies" and "position yourself. Write and publish directly and clearly in your field of study and adjacent areas."

Here are examples of responsibilities from real researcher resumes:

• Manage social media publications to spread awareness and notifications on Facebook.
• Perform cellular assays, DNA extractions, PCR, and sequencing to identify cellulase- producing soil bacteria.
• Implement data visualization tools by Java.
• Present research findings to select professors and professionals at scholar conferences.
• Master techniques in biomedical science research methods.
• Collaborate with doctorates in the field of immunology.
• Utilize CRISPR technology to genetically modify muscle stem cells.
• Develop auditing and monitoring tools for protocol and FDA compliance.
• Train in a clean room for lithography and etching techniques.
• Discover that CD98 is required for clonal expansion and adaptive immunity.
• Assist with patient recruitment efforts as approved per IRB and sponsor/CRO.
• Identify in vitro and in vivo biomarkers for patient selection and efficacy.
• Analyze protein binding and recognition of non-coding RNA in crRNA production stage CRISPR system.
• Analyze micro-wear polishes on Neanderthal stone tools using AFM, SEM and optical microscopy.
• Culture cancer cells, isolate RNA, design and perform multiple RT-PCR reactions for RNA quantification

Researcher skills and personality traits

We calculated that 12 % of Researchers are proficient in Python , Lab Equipment , and C++ . They’re also known for soft skills such as Observation skills , Communication skills , and Analytical skills .

We break down the percentage of Researchers that have these skills listed on their resume here:

Created computer vision-tracking system related to swarming behavior using Raspberry Pi technology and Python.

Learned proper laboratory etiquette and proper use of lab equipment in order to develop an understanding of crystallized proteins.

Created a C++ program to model molecular Bose-Einstein condensates Published in Physical Review A

Designed data analysis, sample collection and reporting processes to support the evaluation of ragweed pollen contributions to ambient particulate matter.

Developed user-friendly TLM measurement program in LabVIEW that resulted in 80-95% increase in time efficiency for semiconductor characterization data collection.

Conducted independent research into ultra-high R value thermal barriers for domestic home insulation and commercial applications.

Common skills that a researcher uses to do their job include "python," "lab equipment," and "c++." You can find details on the most important researcher responsibilities below.

Observation skills. To carry out their duties, the most important skill for a researcher to have is observation skills. Their role and responsibilities require that "medical scientists conduct experiments that require monitoring samples and other health-related data." Researchers often use observation skills in their day-to-day job, as shown by this real resume: "conducted on-site interviews, collected observations, developed coding booklets from data, organized data collection packets. "

Communication skills. Many researcher duties rely on communication skills. "medical scientists must be able to explain their research in nontechnical ways," so a researcher will need this skill often in their role. This resume example is just one of many ways researcher responsibilities rely on communication skills: "implemented multiple telosb motes communication(emitter, forwarder and base station), data collection in nesc. "

Most common researcher skills

The three companies that hire the most researchers are:

• Meta 57 researchers jobs
• Pearson 49 researchers jobs
• University of Washington 30 researchers jobs

Choose from 10+ customizable researcher resume templates

Compare different researchers

Researcher vs. postdoctoral associate.

A postdoctoral associate is responsible for researching to support scientific claims and theories by collecting evidence and information to answer scientific questions. Postdoctoral associates must have excellent communication skills , both oral and written, to interact with people and document investigation findings. They also utilize laboratory tools and equipment for scientific researches, conduct field investigations, and interview participants. A postdoctoral associate designs comprehensive research models to discuss results with the panel and the team efficiently and accurately.

There are some key differences in the responsibilities of each position. For example, researcher responsibilities require skills like "lab equipment," "conduct research," "linux," and "sociology anthropology." Meanwhile a typical postdoctoral associate has skills in areas such as "patients," "tip," "biomedical," and "crispr." This difference in skills reveals the differences in what each career does.

Researcher vs. Doctoral student

A doctoral fellow is a physician that has completed studies and receives a fellowship to cover his/her or her expenses while completing his/her or her medical dissertation. A doctor fellow undergoes this fellowship to get additional training for their chosen sub-specialty. During the fellowship period, a fellow can act as an attending physician or consultant physician with other physicians' direct supervision in the sub-specialty field.

Each career also uses different skills, according to real researcher resumes. While researcher responsibilities can utilize skills like "lab equipment," "conduct research," "sociology anthropology," and "research data," doctoral students use skills like "java," "protein expression," "scholar," and "gene expression."

What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Researchers in the next 3-5 years?

Dean , La Sierra University

• All kinds of digital stuff
• Technology that allows us to have alternatives to the screen; screen technology lets us shrink to two-dimensional beings.

Researcher vs. Doctoral fellow

A fellow's responsibility will depend on the organization or industry where one belongs. However, most of the time, a fellow's duty will revolve around conducting research and analysis, presiding discussions and attending dialogues, handle lectures while complying with the guidelines or tasks set by supervisors, and assist in various projects and activities. Furthermore, a fellow must adhere to the institution or organization's policies and regulations at all times, meet all the requirements and outputs involved, and coordinate with every person in the workforce.

There are many key differences between these two careers, including some of the skills required to perform responsibilities within each role. For example, a researcher is likely to be skilled in "lab equipment," "conduct research," "linux," and "sociology anthropology," while a typical doctoral fellow is skilled in "patients," "research projects," "cell biology," and "immunology."

Researcher vs. Fellow

Types of researcher.

• Graduate Research Student
• Research Fellow

Research Technician

Research scientist.

• Doctoral Fellow

Updated June 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

What a Researcher Does FAQs

Is a researcher a job, what does a researcher study, what is the role of a researcher, search for researcher jobs, what similar roles do.

• What an Assistant Research Scientist Does
• What a Doctoral Fellow Does
• What a Fellow Does
• What a Graduate Research Student Does
• What a Laboratory Internship Does
• What a Laboratory Researcher Does
• What a Market Researcher Does
• What an PHD Researcher Does
• What a Postdoctoral Associate Does
• What a Postdoctoral Research Associate Does
• What a Postdoctoral Scholar Does
• What a Research Associate Does
• What a Research Fellow Does
• What a Research Internship Does
• What a Research Laboratory Technician Does

Researcher Related Careers

• Assistant Research Scientist
• Doctoral Student
• Graduate Researcher
• Laboratory Internship
• Laboratory Researcher
• Market Researcher
• PHD Researcher
• Postdoctoral Associate
• Postdoctoral Research Associate
• Postdoctoral Scholar
• Research Associate

Researcher Related Jobs

Researcher jobs by location.

• Bakersfield Researcher
• Burr Ridge Researcher
• Dallas Researcher
• Del City Researcher
• Eggertsville Researcher
• Grosse Pointe Park Researcher
• Irvine Researcher
• Lakewood Researcher
• Lanham Researcher
• Lower Moreland Researcher
• Maple Shade Researcher
• North Logan Researcher
• Pike Creek Valley Researcher
• Tampa Researcher
• West Mifflin Researcher
• Zippia Careers
• Life, Physical, and Social Science Industry
• What Does A Researcher Do

Browse life, physical, and social science jobs

Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the era of information, the focus on researchers has never been more critical.

As knowledge evolves, the demand for highly skilled individuals who can probe, analyze, and safeguard our information reservoir grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply captivated by the intricate world of research,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable researcher job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Researchers are responsible for designing, conducting, interpreting and presenting original scientific research.

They have deep knowledge in their field of expertise, and their main objective is to advance knowledge in that particular area.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Design and implement research studies based on specific objectives or research questions
• Conduct literature reviews to identify and understand previous research related to their study
• Collect data using a range of methods, such as observations, questionnaires, interviews, or experiments
• Analyze and interpret data to derive meaningful insights and conclusions
• Prepare and present findings in clear, concise reports or academic papers
• Publish research in peer-reviewed journals or present findings at academic conferences
• Collaborate with other researchers and professionals in related fields
• Apply for grants and manage budgets for research projects
• Stay up-to-date with current research trends and developments in their field
• Ensure all research activities are conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines and regulations

Researcher Job Description Template

We are looking for a dedicated and analytically inclined Researcher to join our team.

The Researcher’s responsibilities include gathering and analyzing data, presenting findings in a comprehensible manner, contributing to the development of research objectives and preparing research proposals.

Our ideal candidate is proficient in relevant field methodologies, has a strong command of research tools, and is comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Ultimately, the role of the Researcher is to provide us with the information needed to make informed decisions, contribute to the knowledge base of the organization, and deliver high-quality, accurate, and innovative research findings.

Responsibilities

• Perform extensive research into a wide range of topics
• Collect and analyze data to interpret and predict trends
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations of findings
• Work closely with teams and individuals to understand the research objectives
• Ensure all research practices comply with relevant ethical standards
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments
• Participate in research discussions and workshops
• Develop research proposals and design research methodologies
• Contribute to team meetings and discussions
• Prepare and deliver presentations of research findings
• Ensure confidentiality of sensitive information

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Researcher or similar role
• Ability to interpret large amounts of data
• Proficiency in data analysis software and online databases
• Strong knowledge of research methodology and principles
• Outstanding problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

• Job Title: Researcher
• Work Environment: Office setting with some flexibility for remote work. Some travel may be required for research purposes or to attend conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Researcher or Research Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a sample of your work to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Researcher Do?

Researchers work in various fields like academia, corporations, non-profit organizations, and government institutions.

They are responsible for designing, conducting, and interpreting the results of experiments and studies in their respective fields.

They construct and test hypotheses using statistical techniques, collect and analyze data, and report their findings in a structured manner.

They also read and evaluate the research work of others in their field to stay updated with the latest developments.

Researchers are often responsible for securing funding for their projects, which involves writing and submitting grant proposals.

This also means they should be able to clearly articulate their research plans and its potential impact to various stakeholders.

In academia, researchers often teach or mentor students while conducting their own research.

They may publish their findings in academic journals and present their work at conferences.

In other sectors, researchers might use their findings to inform company strategies, influence policy, or develop new products or services.

Effective researchers also collaborate with others in their field, which may involve multidisciplinary team work.

They must maintain high ethical standards in their work, especially when their research involves human subjects or sensitive data.

Ultimately, a researcher’s role is to contribute new knowledge to their field and help solve complex problems.

Researcher Qualifications and Skills

A proficient researcher should have the qualifications and skills that align with the nature of the research work, such as:

• Strong analytical skills to scrutinize and interpret data, as well as identify patterns and trends.
• Detail-oriented nature to ensure the accuracy and reliability of data and results.
• Excellent critical thinking skills for problem-solving, hypothesizing, and making educated assumptions.
• Proficiency in using various research methodologies and tools to gather, analyze and present data.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to share findings effectively with various stakeholders, including team members, clients, or in publications.
• Time management skills to efficiently conduct research within the set time frame.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate with a team, interview subjects, or interact with clients.
• Ability to work independently and remain focused for extended periods.
• Persistence and patience to endure long and often tedious research processes.
• Knowledge of ethical guidelines and legal requirements pertaining to the field of research.

Researcher Experience Requirements

Entry-level researcher roles typically require at least a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field of research, such as sociology, psychology, or natural sciences, and some research experience, often through university projects, internships, or part-time roles.

Candidates who have conducted independent research projects or have been part of a research team as an undergraduate, or who have worked as a research assistant, may have the necessary experience for entry-level positions.

For more senior researcher roles, a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in the relevant field is often required, along with several years of post-graduate research experience.

Candidates with significant experience in designing and conducting research projects, analyzing data, and writing research reports may be considered for these positions.

Those with over 5 years of experience in research roles often have extensive knowledge of research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and subject matter expertise.

They may also have a record of peer-reviewed publications, grant writing experience, and possibly some teaching or mentoring experience, making them suitable for senior or lead researcher positions or roles in academia.

Researchers seeking roles in specialized fields or industries may need additional experience, such as clinical trial experience for medical researchers, or experience with specific research tools or technologies.

For example, experience with statistical software programs, qualitative data analysis tools, or laboratory equipment may be required.

Researcher Education and Training Requirements

Researchers typically have a bachelor’s degree in their chosen field of research.

This could range from social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, to business and technology.

They need a strong background in research methodologies, statistics, and critical thinking.

Familiarity with research software and tools such as SPSS, Stata, or Nvivo is often beneficial.

For more specialized research roles, a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in the specific discipline is often required.

This indicates a deep understanding of the field and advanced research skills.

Many researchers also complete additional certifications in specific research methodologies or data analysis techniques to improve their competence.

Continuous professional development through attending workshops, conferences, and seminars is also critical for staying updated with the latest research trends and methodologies.

Some roles may require researchers to have specific licenses, especially when the research involves sensitive data, human subjects or animals.

Researcher Salary Expectations

A Researcher can expect to earn an average salary of $79,617 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on the field of research, years of experience, educational qualifications, and the location of the job.

Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a researcher need.

Researchers need to have strong analytical skills to evaluate data and derive meaningful insights from it.

They should be detail-oriented, ensuring no data or information is overlooked.

Good communication skills are also important, as researchers often need to present their findings to others.

Additionally, they should possess problem-solving skills to determine the best methods for collecting and analyzing data.

Do researchers need a degree?

While it depends on the specific field of research, most researcher roles require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

However, for more specialized or senior researcher positions, a master’s degree or a Ph.D. is often necessary.

Extensive experience in the field of research may sometimes substitute the requirement for an advanced degree.

What should you look for in a researcher resume?

A researcher’s resume should highlight their educational qualifications in the relevant field along with any specific specializations.

It should detail any past research projects they’ve worked on, the objectives of these projects, and the results obtained.

Skills like data analysis, project management, and familiarity with research tools and software should also be highlighted.

Publications, if any, are a major plus.

What qualities make a good researcher?

A good researcher is naturally curious and constantly eager to learn.

They should be patient, as research often involves long periods of data collection and analysis.

They should have strong critical thinking abilities to draw logical conclusions from data.

Good researchers are also persistent and resilient, as research work can often involve setbacks and obstacles.

What is the job outlook for researchers?

The job outlook for researchers varies significantly based on the field of research.

However, in general, the demand for researchers is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by the increasing need for scientific research in various sectors.

This growth, however, is subject to availability of funding for research in the specific field.

What are the daily duties of a researcher?

A researcher’s daily duties typically involve planning and conducting experiments or surveys, collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and writing research reports or papers.

They may also attend meetings or conferences, present their findings to stakeholders or the public, and stay updated on the latest developments in their field of research.

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the fascinating world of a researcher.

It’s not just about poring over papers and data.

It’s about discovering new knowledge, one research project at a time.

With our definitive researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to stride ahead.

But why halt your journey here?

Probe further with our job description generator . It’s your essential tool for curating precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Every piece of research contributes to a larger understanding.

Let’s unearth that knowledge. Together.

Reasons to Become a Researcher (Ignite Innovation Flame!)

How to Become a Researcher (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being a Researcher (Innovation’s Invisible Chains!)

Change Your Career Path: Easy Jobs with Salaries That Will Surprise You

The Flex Revolution: Careers That Break Free from the Norm

Ditch the Dullness: Exciting Jobs With Serious Pay

Safe from the AI Storm: Jobs That Need Human Finesse

The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

Similar Posts

Inventory Stocker Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Editing Software Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Call Center Agent Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Exercise Psychologist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Facility Maintenance Janitor Job Description [Updated for 2024]

AWS Enterprise Solution Architect Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Job Seekers

Business Solutions

Contractors

Synergy Scientific Solutions

Commercial Services

Staffing Solutions

Executive & Technical Search

• Managed Service Provider & Contingent Workforce Solutions

Pre-Clinical Discovery Science

Early Talent in STEM

• Recruitment Process Outsourcing and Permanent Workforce Solutions

Statement of Work (SOW)

Salary Benchmarking

• News & Insights
• Guides & Reports
• Podcasts & Webinars
• Career Advice

Global Talent Trends and Insights 2024

Meet the team

Refer A Friend

What does a research scientist do and how do I become one?

Share Our Blog

As a research scientist, you’ll plan and conduct experiments to help expand the canon of scientific knowledge. With limitless opportunities for discovery across a range of high-growth sectors and industries, being a research scientist is one of the most exciting career paths in STEM. 

What does a research scientist do, exactly.

The purpose of a research scientist role is to conduct lab-based trials and experiments.

Work is often divided between pure research, which advances our understanding of basic processes, and applied research, which uses the information gathered to meet targets such as creating new products, processes, or commercial applications.

Of course, your targets will depend on the specialism of your employer. Research scientists work across a variety of different fields, including biology, chemistry, medicine, computer science, environmental science, and even political science.

Responsibilities

Typical day-to-day responsibilities of a research scientist include:

• Creating research proposals
• Planning and conducting experiments
• Collecting samples
• Monitoring experiments
• Recording and analysing data
• Collaborating with other researchers and academia to develop new techniques and products
• Supervising junior staff
• Carrying out fieldwork and monitoring environmental factors
• Researching and writing published papers
• Staying up-to-date with the latest scientific developments

Work environment

As a research scientist, you’ll spend most of your week in a laboratory. These environments can vary depending on your specialism. For example, biology labs are designed to safely house and contain living specimens, while psychology labs may simply consist of a bank of computers.

Aside from lab work, certain aspects of your role (including writing up results or research papers) will be undertaken in an office environment. You may also be required to visit the labs or offices of other researchers or companies, especially if you are collaborating on the same project.

Working hours

Research scientists typically work 35 to 40 hours a week on a 9-to-5, full-time basis. On occasion, you may be required to work overtime or visit the laboratory on weekends to complete certain tasks. That said, most organisations offer flexible working arrangements. 

What skills are needed to be a research scientist?

Though research scientists come in all personality types, you’ll need to have an academic mindset and be naturally inquisitive. Research scientist skills include:

• A methodical approach to gathering and analysing data
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Critical thinking
• Advanced research skills
• Time management
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to work independently
• A collaborative mindset
• Stakeholder management
• Patience and tenacity

How to become a research scientist

As a minimum requirement, you’ll need to obtain a 2:1 bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field of science. Most research scientists also have a postgraduate qualification, such as an MSc, an MSci or MBiol. Relevant qualifications include:

• Biochemistry
• Biomedical science
• Environmental science
• Microbiology
• Natural science
• Pharmacology

While a PhD isn’t necessarily required, some employers prefer candidates that either have or are working towards a doctorate. Demonstrable experience of working in a laboratory environment will also improve your employment chances.

Tip: If you’re currently studying or have already attained a relevant degree, try to gain research experience in a lab environment. The best place to start is by expressing your interest to your university department, who may have some voluntary positions available. Alternatively, sending your CV/resume to hospitals and STEM companies will also increase your chances of gaining that vital experience.

How much do research scientists earn?

Like many roles in science, salaries for research scientists depend on your level of experience, your specialism, the employer, and, to a lesser extent, the location. It’s also worth bearing in mind that private-sector salaries tend to be higher than those in the public sector or academia.

In the UK, research scientist salaries range from £20,000 at the entry-level to over £70,000 for university professor senior research fellow roles. The average research scientist salary is £32,330. Most research assistants earn between £26,000 and £35,000.

According to Indeed, the average salary for a research scientist in the US is $111,444.

Please note that income figures are subject to economic conditions and are only intended as a guide.

Is research scientist a good career?

With science constantly opening up exciting new avenues of research, working as a research scientist provides secure employment and gives you the chance to make a real difference within STEM.

Indeed, the outlook for the role is positive: in the US alone, the vocation is expected to grow by 8% and produce over 10,000 job opportunities across the country by 2028 (Zippia). As one of the least likely jobs to be automated in the coming years, the role also offers stability in these turbulent times. 

Offering a strong earning potential and the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in a range of industries and locations, research scientist represents one of the most fulfilling career paths around.

Latest News, Events & Insights

Life science workers pay rises fastest in the UK

A new report by SRG and New Scientist Jobs reveals that UK life sciences salaries have risen rapidly but still lag behind North America and Europe. The report highlights key trends in job mobility, remote work preferences and workforce diversity.

HeadFirst Group and Impellam Group join forces

HEADFIRST GROUP AND IMPELLAM GROUP JOIN FORCES TO BECOME A GLOBAL LEADER IN STEM, DIGITAL AND IT TALENT, MANAGED SERVICES AND HR TECH

How to develop a successful employer branding strategy to attract and retain top talent

In this guide, we’ll show you how to build an employer branding strategy that’s aligned with wider business needs and geared towards achieving your recruitment goals.

4 Famous LGBTQ+ Scientists Who Are Changing the World Today

Want to know which LGBTQ+ scientists are pioneering the future of STEM? In this blog, SRG celebrate famous LGBTQ+ scientists from across the STEM industry, read more...

How to Upskill Digital at Pace in STEM

Learn how to upskill digital with actionable solutions to keep your workforce ahead of the curve and your talent pipeline evergreen.

International Women's Day : Meet the female STEM leaders who are forging tomorrow’s world

Happy International Women’s Day. We are dedicating this blog post to some of the brilliant women who are making a difference across our sectors.

MedTech Trends : What Does the Future Hold?

Find out how the latest medtech industry trends are continuing to influence, and forge the future of the industry.

Trends in Biopharma: How and Why the Industry is Changing

As demand for medicine continues to rise, we explore wider biopharma trends set to help the industry evolve to meet the future of drug discovery.

Want to Know More?

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Stay up to date with SRG

Latest Salary Survey

SRG are industry leaders and work with 3rd party vendors for market intelligence

Get in Touch

[email protected]

For Job Seekers

• Contract Recruitment
• Direct Hire
• Executive Search
• Project-Based Recruitment/Statement of Work
• Meet the Team
• Case Studies
• Whistleblowing policy
• Accessibility
• Carbon Reduction Plan
• ED&I statement
• Gender Pay Gap Report
• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Modern Slavery Statement
• Terms and conditions
• Complaints Procedure
• Section 172

© 2024 SRG.

• Gender pay gap report

Career Paths

• Mar 6, 2024
• 11 min read

How to Become a Researcher (Duties, Salary and Steps)

You could uncover the next big thing in our lives.

Mike Dalley

HR and Learning & Development Expert

Reviewed by Chris Leitch

Everything important in our day-to-day life started as a groundbreaking piece of research.

Researchers make ideas come to life, and all of the things that we take for granted wouldn’t be here without research. Therefore, being a researcher offers a rewarding, challenging and varied career path .

This article takes you through the details of being a researcher, including what this exciting role entails, what the working environment and salary are like and, critically, what you can do to get started in the role.

What is a researcher?

A researcher collects data and undertakes investigations into a particular subject , publishing their findings. The purpose of this is to uncover new knowledge or theories. Researchers typically specialize in a particular field and follow rigorous methodologies in order to ensure their research is credible.

What are the different types of researchers?

There are many ways to categorize researchers, such as by their field, expertise or methodologies. Here are six basic types of researchers:

• Applied researchers use existing scientific knowledge to solve problems . They use this knowledge to develop new technologies or methodologies.
• Clinical researchers conduct research related to medical treatments or diseases. They often work in institutions like hospitals or pharmaceutical companies.
• Corporate researchers collect data related to business environments, with the aim to use this to benefit organizations.
• Market researchers gather data related to consumer preferences or an organization’s competitors.
• Social researchers investigate human behavior and the factors influencing this. Social research relates to fields like psychology , anthropology and economics.
• Policy researchers work with companies and governments to investigate the impact of policies, regulations or programs.

What does a researcher do?

Researcher work is quite varied. It begins with reviewing existing research and literature and formulating research questions . Researchers also have to design studies and protocols for their research, and diligently and thoroughly collect data.

Once the data is collected, researchers have to critically analyze their findings and communicate them . To ensure the research is reliable, researchers must embrace peer review , where their research is evaluated by other researchers in the same field, and draw conclusions accordingly. The entirety of this process must be bound by ethical considerations, as researchers have a duty to ensure their work is truthful, integral and accurate.

Researchers also undertake supportive duties, such as applying for grants and funding, and investigating new areas to research.

What is their work environment?

Researchers’ work environment depends greatly on the type of research they are doing and their field. The typical researcher environment can, therefore, vary considerably but might include time in laboratories, academic institutions, office spaces and IT workshops. There might also be the need to undergo onsite fieldwork or attend conferences and workshops.

Researchers work in collaborative environments, and teamwork is common. That said, they also need to undertake plenty of solo work that requires concentration and quiet. Consequently, they need to be happy in a variety of different work settings.

How many hours do they work?

The hours researchers work vary just as much as their working environment. Freelance or contract researchers might work atypical hours, whereas academic or corporate researchers might work more standard hours, such as a 40-hour working week.

Field researchers might have to work longer hours at times in order to collect data. This also might involve travel time.

All researchers might have to work long hours when deadlines are due, or when projects are time-sensitive. Finally, because of the idiosyncratic nature of research work, all researchers might have their favorite personal working style and work their hours in preferred patterns.

How much do they earn?

Owing to the nature of the role, researcher salaries can vary considerably. Based on current market data , the average salary is $82,276 per year .

One of the largest variables in researcher salaries is the field you decide to go into. Academic researchers are typically paid towards the lower end of the scale, as are government researchers. Industry or corporate researchers are paid a lot more, with computer and information research roles paying a median annual salary of over $130,000.

Researcher salaries can also vary based on the job level. Apprentices or research assistants have lower salaries, whereas research scientist or professor-level roles often pay over $100,000. Pay scales are connected to academic reputation, industry credentials, and the industry you work in. This also means that as your career in research progresses, you can expect to take home extremely good paychecks.

What is the job market like for researchers?

Some research roles can be extremely competitive, with tenure-track roles in academic research being highly in demand, as are positions in consulting firms. The labor market for corporate research and governmental research roles can also be very strong, but research is heavily impacted by economic conditions, and roles can be cut in times of recession.

In general, research roles are highly sought-after , and this means competition for them is fierce. This means that you need to have a strong network, undergo continuous professional development, work on your research portfolio, and ensure your résumé and other supporting documentation are up to date.

What are the entry requirements?

Starting your career as a researcher requires plenty of preparation. Here’s what you need to focus on in terms of education, skills and knowledge, and licensing and certification.

Higher education is essential to become a researcher; what degree you choose might depend on what field of research you are interested in. A bachelor’s degree will give you foundational knowledge , whereas a master’s or PhD offers more specialized knowledge and can lead to more career opportunities later in your career journey.

Skills and knowledge

Entry-level researchers need a rich mix of skills and knowledge to be able to fulfil their job duties . Skills to develop include analytical skills , critical thinking ability and solving problems, with other useful ones being IT and presentation skills . Knowledge of research methodologies and rationale, as well as database management, is very useful.

Licensing and certification

Licensing and certification requirements for researchers vary , depending on the field you are planning to go into. Academic credentials, as outlined above, are important, but being a member of relevant professional associations is also highly advised.

Some sensitive areas of research might require you to have specialist credentials, such as certification in Good Clinical Practice if you’re planning to undertake medical research.

Do you have what it takes?

Being a researcher is a labor of love. If your values, passions and talent are related to traits like curiosity, attention to detail, discovering more about the world we live in, and rigorous attention to detail, then being a researcher is the perfect job for you. You also have to have a lot of patience, honesty when it comes to reporting unwelcome results, and resilience.

If you’re not sure what kind of career your skills, interests and passions might lead to, then consider taking CareerHunter’s six-stage assessment . These tests have been developed by psychologists and assess your skills and interests in order to provide you with best-fit careers that you can really thrive in.

How to become a researcher

A lot of preparation is needed to become a researcher. If, after reading this far, you still feel that becoming a researcher is the perfect job for you, then read on to discover how you can make this career dream a reality.

Step 1: Choose your field

Try to choose your research field as soon as you can. This is important, because it might provide you with direction for your higher education. There are so many different research fields to choose from — for example: social sciences, humanities, business, healthcare, engineering , or simply focusing on research theory or methodologies.

It’s important to choose a field that you have a strong interest or passion in. Also, consider where your talents and skills lie, and let this guide your decision too.

Step 2: Get qualified

As we’ve covered already, education is an important first step to becoming a researcher.

Common degrees to focus on can be the sciences (biology, chemistry or physics), computer science , mathematics, or statistics . Alternatively, if you have decided on your chosen research field, then consider obtaining higher education that relates to this.

Being a researcher is a competitive career: good grades in leading institutions will be required if you want to work as a researcher in prestigious organizations.

Step 3: Develop your research skills

Whether it’s part of your higher education or simply learning in your own time, developing research skills such as new methodologies, quantitative and qualitative methods , strategic analysis, or data analytics will keep you professionally competitive.

Additionally, it’s useful to gain experience in using research tools and software. These can include statistics software like SPSS, as well as programming languages like Java and Python. Understanding data visualization and presentation tools can also be hugely helpful.

Step 4: Gain research experience

A great way to start your career as a researcher is to undertake undergraduate research. This could be your own independent research project but is most commonly achieved through research internships or assistantships . With these experiences, you can collaborate with academic leaders, mentors or established researchers on their projects, and learn from their experience and expertise as well.

Another way to gain experience is through volunteering in research-related roles in academic institutions, laboratories or other similar environments.

Step 5: Network with peers

Networking with fellow research professionals enables you to exchange ideas, resources and expertise . Your network might be able to support you in finding research positions as your career progresses.

Grow your network by attending conferences and seminars, and by leveraging your work experience. You can also grow your network by reaching out to researchers on LinkedIn, and by publishing your own research papers as your experience grows.

Step 6: Present and publish your work

Presenting your work and publishing your findings establishes and grows your credibility as a researcher. You can present your research at conferences or even online via websites like YouTube.

Being published or listed as a collaborator on research papers can impact your career hugely , and being featured on important or large-scale research works can truly establish you as a researcher and lead to larger projects or more funding.

Step 7: Develop your résumé

Ensure that your résumé links to your portfolio of published works , as well as your presentations. It should showcase to potential employers and academic institutions what you have done, and what you’re capable of doing.

Ensure your résumé also references your research skills in a way that relates to the reader, and that it can be parsed effectively in applicant tracking systems .

Step 8: Seek funding

Research requires time and money. By applying for research grants, fellowships, scholarships and projects, you’ll grow your experience and leverage your credibility . Many of these opportunities are competitive, and being able to showcase what you can achieve via your published work, portfolio or résumé is essential.

Applying for funding is a skill in itself, as researchers need to be able to write compelling and thorough applications. You’ll also need to use negotiating and influencing skills in order to secure the funding and get your projects off the ground.

Step 9: Apply for research jobs

Whereas being a researcher often means that you’re working on independent projects, freelancing, or affiliated with an academic institution rather than being employed by one, there are plenty of research jobs out there — and lots of companies have their own in-house research teams.

If you apply for these roles, ensure that your résumé is up to date and that you practice your interviewing skills for them. Research jobs are in demand, and being able to showcase what you do is essential for success.

Step 10: Never stop discovering

Being a successful researcher isn’t just about continuous learning; it’s about endless discovery as well. The best researchers stay curious about their field , exploring new research questions, learning and growing from failure, and asking new questions.

Researchers are passionate about discovery and believe that learning new things and overcoming challenges makes the world a better place. Enthusiastically discovering new things will also ensure that your career as a researcher keeps growing. You’ll also develop resilience and persistence, which are powerful skills to have.

Final thoughts

Being a researcher requires a lot of skills and knowledge, as well as you taking time to figure out exactly what kind of research you want to get involved with. The job is complex and detailed, and can be as frustrating as it can be rewarding.

Becoming a leading researcher requires a lot of career preparation, and hopefully this article can point you in the right direction if you feel this is the perfect job for you. Once you get started, choose your research projects carefully, and who knows? You could be the researcher that uncovers the next big thing in our lives!

Are you thinking about becoming a researcher, or want to share your experiences? Let us know in the comments section below.

Career Exploration

American Academic Job Titles Explained

What's the difference between an assistant professor and an associate professor? What about an adjunct professor and a visiting assistant professor? Here's a breakdown of the most common academic job titles used in the USA and Canada.

PhD Student

A PhD is required to work as a professor or researcher in many fields in the US and Canada. Broady speaking, the path to a PhD consists of two to three years of coursework followed by qualification exams and then the writing and defending of a dissertation. Many North American PhD programs require that students to gain teaching experience as well, often as teaching assistants. PhD students do have to pay tuition at American and Canadian universities although many top programs include tuition waiver in their funding packages. PhDs can be funded by the university, external fellowships, personal loans, or a combination of the three. The amount of time it takes to earn a PhD depends on the field, but the average is six years. A Master’s degree is not always a necessary prerequisite for a PhD in North America. Many universities offer direct entry PhD programs which means that students are also awarded a Master’s degree after they have completed certain courses or exams.

Postdoctoral Researcher/Fellow/Scholar

After earning a PhD, the next step in the academic career path is often a postdoc. Postdocs used to just be part of the STEM career path, but these types of positions have started to become more common in the humanities as well. A postdoc is a continuation of a researcher’s training that allows them to further their professional development and start to transition from student to independent researcher. Postdocs also often take additional leadership or teaching responsibilities in their lab or department. These positions are usually two to three years and it is not unusual for a researcher to do more than one postdoc. In Canada postdocs must be within five years of earning their PhD, while there is no limit on how long you can be a postdoc in the United States.

Tenure Track

An academic on the “tenure track” is on the path to a permanent professor position at their university. They will be expected to go up for "review" five to seven years after they start their position at the university. The tenure committee will evaluates the quality of the candidate’s teaching, research, publication record, and service to the university. If the candidate is successful, they are awarded tenure which provides them lifetime employment at their university.

Assistant Professor

This is the entry-level tenure track position. The position comprises of teaching, research and service to the institution (such as being a member of various university committees) and different universities will emphasize different components more. Assistant professors typically teach anywhere from two to four courses per semester in addition to supervising graduate students. They are also expected to be active researchers and publish books, monographs, papers, and journal articles to meet their tenure requirements.

Associate Professor

An assistant professor who has been granted tenure is usually promoted to an associate professor, however, the rank doesn’t always mean the professor is tenured. An associate professor often has a national reputation as a scholar and is involved in service activities beyond their university.

This is the final destination of the tenure track. Five to seven years after receiving tenure, associate professors go through another review. If they are successful, they are promoted to full professor. Professors usually have a record of accomplishment that has established them as an international or national leader in their field.

Adjunct Professor

The number of adjunct professors has grown dramatically in the last 40 years. An adjunct professor is a part-time or non-permanent faculty member who is hired on a semester to semester basis to teach a particular course/courses. Adjuncts are often paid per course and as a result many adjuncts teach at multiple universities each semester.

An adjunct professor can also be someone whose primary appointment is in another department or at another university.

Visiting Assistant Professor (VAP)

This is a temporary appointment that can range from one semester to up to three years. These appointments are usually made to replace faculty on leave or to bring in someone who specializes in an area that the department currently lacks. VAPs often have a higher teaching load than tenured professors which can leave them with little time for their own research. These positions help entry-level academics gain more teaching experience and demonstrate their potential, but they are unlikely to turn into tenure track positions.

Lecturer/Instructor

In Canada and the United States, a lecturer/instructor is a non-tenure-track teaching position. They often have a teach more courses than tenure-track faculty and have with no research obligations. Lecturer/Instructor positions are more common in the humanities and many teach foreign languages. While lecturers hold advanced degrees, they do not always have PhDs.

It is important to note that the title of lecturer means something very different in the UK. A UK lecturer is closer to a North American assistant professor in that the position has teaching, research and service requirements. You can read more about academic titles in the UK  here . 

Research Assistant

This is a staff position rather than a faculty position. In contrast to a lecturer, a research assistant is primarily focused on research and has little to no teaching responsibilities. These positions are usually funded by grants or fellowships rather than by the university. While they may hold advanced degrees, research assistants are not required to have PhDs.

Research Associate/Scientist/Fellow

A research associate is distinguished by the fact that, unlike a research assistant, they have a PhD and have completed a postdoc. This is a more senior position in the lab with a more significant leadership and grant-writing role. A research associate is primarily a research position, though it may have some teaching responsibilities.

Discover related jobs

Discover similar employers

Accelerate your academic career

So You’re Defending Your Dissertation Tomorrow

One of the best things you can do today to prepare for your defence is t...

9 Strategies to Overcome Writer’s Block

Here are some strategies to help you get the words flowing again.

Dutch Academic Job Titles Explained

What's the difference between a universitair docent and a hoogleraar? Wh...

How to Find a Postdoc Position

Wondering how to find a postdoc position? The application system can be ...

Doing a PhD in Europe vs. the US

Are you thinking of doing a PhD abroad? There are some considerable diff...

Academic Salary Negotiations

Your academic job offer can be negotiated and the department expects tha...

Jobs by field

• Programming Languages 190
• Electrical Engineering 182
• Machine Learning 173
• Artificial Intelligence 161
• Molecular Biology 147
• Electronics 134
• Cell Biology 133
• Materials Engineering 127
• Computational Sciences 123
• Mechanical Engineering 107

Jobs by type

• Postdoc 328
• Assistant / Associate Professor 168
• Researcher 121
• Professor 107
• Engineer 69
• Lecturer / Senior Lecturer 63
• Tenure Track 62
• Management / Leadership 57
• Research assistant 44

Jobs by country

• Belgium 245
• The Netherlands 190
• Finland 129
• Germany 121
• Morocco 108
• Switzerland 102
• Luxembourg 80

Jobs by employer

• Mohammed VI Polytechnic Unive... 108
• KU Leuven 94
• University of Luxembourg 78
• Eindhoven University of Techn... 75
• Ghent University 44
• ETH Zürich 41
• KTH Royal Institute of Techno... 38
• University of Twente 33

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Resume and Cover Letter
• Research Assistant Job...

Research Assistant Job Description: All Key Roles & Duties

6 min read · Updated on June 03, 2024

When you want to land a Research Assistant job, the job description is your best friend.

In order to ensure your professional resume will support your goals, use this Research Assistant job description to inform what you should highlight on your resume.

By reviewing job description roles and duties, you'll be able to identify what technical and soft skills , credentials, and work experience matter most to an employer in your target field.

Research Assistant Job Description

Participate in the design, administration, and monitoring of clinical trials. Analyze and evaluate clinical data gathered during research. Ensure compliance with protocol and overall clinical objectives.

May require a BS, RN, or BSN degree or equivalent and 0-3 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Knowledge of FDA regulatory requirements is required. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Work under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.

Responsibilities:

Conduct literature reviews

Collect and analyze data

Prepare materials for submission to granting agencies and foundations

Prepare interview questions

Recruit and/or interview subjects

Maintain accurate records of interviews, safeguarding the confidentiality of subjects as necessary

Summarize interviews

Provide ready access to all experimental data for the faculty researcher and/or supervisor

Request or acquire equipment or supplies necessary for the project

Manage and respond to project-related email

Prepare, maintain, and update website materials

Supervise undergraduate students working on the research project (maintaining records on assignment completion, acting as liaison/mediator between the undergraduate students and the faculty researcher)

Attend project meetings

Attend area seminars and other meetings as necessary

Summarize project results

Prepare progress reports

Prepare other articles, reports, and presentations

Monitor the project budget

Travel to field sites to collect and record data and/or samples as appropriate to the specific objectives of the study

As appropriate to the specified position, code and verify data in accordance with specified research protocol and coding procedures and enter data into a computer database and/or spreadsheet application for subsequent analysis

Develop or assist in the development of interview schedules; contact potential subjects to introduce and explain study objectives and protocol and to arrange interviews, either in person or by telephone

Identify and compile lists of potential research subjects in accordance with study objectives and parameters, as appropriate to the individual position

Conduct and record face-to-face and/or telephone interviews with subjects, in accordance with predetermined interview protocol, data collection procedures and documentation standards

Review and edit data to ensure completeness and accuracy of information; follow up with subjects to resolve problems or clarify data collected

May set up, calibrate and maintain laboratory and/or field research equipment, as specified by the requirements of the study

May lead or guide the work of student employees

Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned

Prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management

Write and contribute to publications

Develop research protocols

Track progress over time

Assist with preparation of all educational and training workshops and evaluation strategies

Engage clinical and community partners in research

Market training and technical assistance resources to clinical partners and academic investigators

Develop assessment and evaluation tools

Compile data for progress reports

Requirements:

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis

High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred

Tailor your resume

As you read through the Research Assistant job description, you likely noticed there are things the employer wants that you absolutely know how to do. You should make a list of the skills you have so they align with the duties you'll need to perform in your new job. 

As an example, the first responsibility listed in this Research Assistant job description is the ability to “conduct literature reviews.” You will want that exact verbiage in your resume. Tailoring your Research Assistant resume with the language you find in the job description will help your resume get past the applicant tracking system.

The applicant tracking system – ATS

Make no mistake: almost every job you apply to will push your resume through the ATS before it gets into the hands of a hiring manager. It will scan your resume for everything from experience level and education to keywords. 

Let's take a look at some of the skills you should consider including in your Research Assistant resume.

Research Assistant top skills & proficiencies

By using the exact wording from the Research Assistant job description, you'll be speaking directly to the bot through relevant keywords. Use those skill-related keywords and make sure you have a good balance of hard and soft skills .

Hard skills are things you know how to do because of education, on-the-job training, and experience. In other words, they're what you've learned over the course of your career. It's pretty easy to distinguish them because they are quantifiable. Meaning you can put a number with them. 

For example, if you're using “data collection” as one of your hard skills, you can quantify it by saying that you “collect data from 3 disparate sources or data lakes to compile actionable reports for senior leaders.”

Soft skills are not often quantifiable. These types of skills are the interpersonal abilities you possess that allow you to get along with others and solve problems. 

Communication

Attention to detail

Critical thinking

Planning and scheduling

Interviewing

Data collection

Conflict resolution

Related reading: 47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

The Research Assistant job description is the key to job search success

At the end of the day, the goal of applying for any job is to win an interview. By using the Research Assistant job description, you'll get past the ATS and impress the hiring manager.

If you want to be certain that you've got the right skills and keywords in your resume from the Research Assistant job description, TopResume will perform a free resume review for you. 

Recommended reading

5 Simple Steps to Customizing Your Resume for Each Job

How to Write a Targeted Resume That Lands You an Interview

How to Customize Your Job Application for a Specific Job Listing

Related Articles:

7 Signs Your Resume is Making You Look Old

Software Developer Top Needed Skills

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

Overview of academic research, teaching and other positions

Academic job titles can seem to be full mystery and hidden meaning, even those in the traditional path: Ph.D. to postdoc, then to assistant, associate and full professor. Even though I’ve been in academia several years, I still wonder: What exactly are these jobs, and what are all the other academic jobs that aren’t exactly in this flow? 

This week I investigated all the academic job titles I could find to understand what the options are for people looking to participate in research and teaching in academia. I am not including any alt-academic or academic administrative jobs, since my colleague Martina Efeyini covers those beautifully in her columns, like this one on research administration careers . I’m also not including clinical research positions here — only positions related to bench work or teaching.

I have included links to relevant resources about positions when available. Some positions that I did not include resources for have definitions and resources on various university websites. These school sites, like this one for University of North Carolina or this one for the University of Michigan, usually contain information specific to how the jobs function at each school, and are more helpful than general resources.

Ph.D. student

A Ph.D. student works under a principal investigator, and often under postdoctoral fellows/researchers, to complete their own project. In doing so, they learn the details of a field and how to conduct research, from forming and testing hypotheses, to troubleshooting, to writing papers.  Getting a Ph.D. can also help you develop soft skills, such as how to learn a new topic, how to seek help, how to divide a task into smaller doable parts, and how to network. A Ph.D. can prepare someone for further research and research training, like a postdoctoral fellowship; a move into industry; and other fields that require critical thinking, such as consulting, science or medical writing, or teaching.

Postdoctoral fellow/researcher

A postdoc is a position many new Ph.D. holders look for. It’s used to deepen and broaden a doctorate holder’s knowledge and training and prepare them for an independent research career. A good summary of the postdoc position can be found here , and some resources for current postdocs can be found here . Also, see my article from November about finding a postdoc position .

Assistant professor

This is typically a tenure-track job, meaning that, after a set number of years, usually about seven, the professor undergoes an institutional review. This review can include an evaluation of the professor’s publications, their involvement in and service to the institution, their personal tenure statement, several letters from fellow academics, and teaching evaluations from students and evaluators. If reviewed favorably, the professor gets tenure and becomes a permanent professor — someone who can’t be fired without due cause. If the assistant professor doesn’t get tenure, they’re usually asked to leave, to look for a job elsewhere.  The American Association of University Professors offers insights into what tenure is and is not here . A somewhat comical but info-packed guide to being an assistant professor can be found here .

Related stories

Location, location, location!  Shaila Kotadia cautions that graduate school and postdoctoral stints offer a nice change of place, so you should choose wisely .

Advice for new assistant professors:  Peter Kennelly makes 12 suggestions that assistant professors should consider. 

Understanding faculty salaries:  Charles Brenner sheds some light on faculty compensation .

The tenured itch:  Graham R. Moran and Audrey Lamb offer advice for academics mired in midcareer malaise .

Using your science beyond the bench:  Kathleen H. Goss chose to not go up for tenure “knowing it would very likely not be successful”  and instead found a nonresearch career in academia .

Associate professor

This is typically a full-time, tenured faculty position with all the freedom that comes with that, as well as all the responsibilities and duties. Some institutions have associate professors who are not tenured, but generally associate professor would be the step after an assistant professor gains tenure. This position can last for a professor’s entire career if they don’t apply for promotion to full professor or if their application is turned down. As with tenure applications, promotions to full professor involve external letters and committee reviews. Unlike with tenure applications, if someone is turned down for promotion as an associate professor, they do not have to leave the university. They can continue their work as before, and, if they want, can apply again. 

Full professor

This is about as senior as you can get in the professor world.  Some reasons people may apply to be full professor would be: respect and prestige, satisfaction, pay raise, eligibility for certain awards and recognition, eligibility to chair a department and serve on certain committees, or generally having more input in how things are run. It may also come with increased academic freedom.

A subcategory here is a chaired professor. An endowed chair position title usually looks something like the “John Doe Professor of Biology” where the name is someone who has donated money for, or endowed, the position. This benefits the professor because, besides respect, it usually comes with funding, so that a part of their salary or some of their research funds come from the endowed position.

Teaching professors

Some schools have the same ranks for teaching professors (assistant teaching professor, associate teaching professor, and full teaching professor) for people devoting their time to teaching. They go through similar steps and tenure review, though the review focuses on their teaching and service rather than research.

Research professors

Many schools have the ranks of research professor (including research assistant professor and research associate professor). These professors dedicate their time to research, generally without teaching responsibilities, and, importantly, without tenure. They typically have fixed-term contracts of one to five years, and while their contracts can potentially be renewed endlessly, they do not gain the protections of tenure. Research professors can carry out many of the same activities as other professors, including obtaining grants and running a lab. They can also run or participate in core facilities, described below.

Associate research scientist

These and similar positions are typically filled by someone who is more knowledgeable and experienced than a postdoc but who does not run their own lab. They may run their own projects in a lab and have a fair amount of independence, while still being in a principal investigator’s lab. Some institutions require postdocs after some number of years (usually five) to either be promoted to this more independent and potentially permanent position or to leave.

This position can mean different things at different institutions. However, often it means a role similar to associate research scientist but with more independence and the expectation to become an assistant professor. Sometimes instructor can mean a job similar to a full-time lecturer.

The meaning of this title seems to vary from institution to institution. Often, it is a full-time, nontenured, teaching position and can be held by someone with an M.S. or Ph.D. Sometimes lecturers have research duties as well. The lecturer title occasionally refers to a part-time teacher, such as an adjunct (see next item).

Adjunct professor

This is part-time teaching position, usually hired on a per-course basis. The degree requirements vary from position to position and school to school. You can read my post about adjunct positions here .

Visiting professor

This title is typically reserved for professors who are temporarily working at another institution. A visiting professor may be a professor who is employed full time elsewhere and is taking a year away or may be someone without a permanent institution who is filling in for a permanent professor who is on sabbatical or medical leave.

Technician or lab manager

The technician and lab manager positions vary a lot. They might maintain stocks of reagents, keep the lab compliant with trainings and safety regulations, spearhead their own projects, write their own papers, and everything in between. They might work for one lab or split their time between a few. They might devote their full time to specific department-wide tasks, such as managing animal colonies. Unlike the other job titles described here that vary from institution to institution, technicians’ jobs can even vary widely between labs at the same institution. One lab might rely on techs to make media while having no expectations that they’ll ever do any experiments, while another might expect them to manage projects like a grad student or postdoc. Some act as trainers for undergrads, too. The job might be full time or part time and can be a fulfilling lifelong career or just a yearlong in-between post for someone thinking about grad school. You can see my previous post about lab techs here .

Core facility manager

Many institutions have core facilities of shared specialized equipment. This might include facilities for advanced microscopy, flow cytometry, genomics and sequencing, tissue culture, antibody production, and more. These facilities are run by experts in these techniques. This means that someone who would like to use a technique in their work but doesn’t fully know how or doesn’t have their own equipment can talk to the core manager and work out how to carry out their desired experiment — and use the core’s facilities to get it done.

The core manger typically is not involved in their own research projects but is hands-on involved in many research projects, in addition to maintaining the necessary equipment. They might run how-to sessions and teach new users how to do experiments using their equipment. They might take in samples from various labs and carry out the necessary analysis or experiments themselves.

This can be an ideal position for someone who has deep expertise on equipment and techniques but doesn’t necessarily want to run their own lab or do their own experiments. In this position, you can stay up to date and on the cutting edge of the science, putting your skills to good use without the stress of running a lab. A subtype of this is the biostatistician and data scientist. With the increase of big data, biostatisticians and data scientists can have their own role in universities. This role is similar to a core manager in that they can take their expertise and help many other scientists with their work.  While there are certainly biostatisticians and data scientists who are professors conducting their own research, there is a growing need at universities for data scientists who function like core facilities, helping other labs analyze their data correctly.

Enjoy reading ASBMB Today?

Become a member to receive the print edition monthly and the digital edition weekly.

Elizabeth Stivison is a careers columnist for ASBMB Today and an assistant laboratory professor at Middlebury College.

Related articles

Featured jobs.

from the ASBMB career center

Get the latest from ASBMB Today

Enter your email address, and we’ll send you a weekly email with recent articles, interviews and more.

Latest in Careers

Careers highlights or most popular articles.

Growing a chapter for grad students and postdocs

At Penn State, the ASBMB is building a community to help provide these early-career researchers with the tools they need to excel in science and life.

Upcoming opportunities

Celebrate NPAW with ASBMB! Plus: Present your work at our virtual event on exploring AI tools in BMB education.

Upcoming ASBMB events for future industry scientists — and others

ASBMB offers webinars aimed at a variety of member groups, including scientists who have taken time off for caregiving or members who want to start their own labs. These three will be useful to postdocs and graduate students.

Save the date for ASBMB's webinar on success in graduate school! Just added: A fellowship for journalists and a virtual event on data management.

On Sept. 19, join ASBMB's public affairs department for a LinkedIn chat with organizations that provide resources and support for the postdoc community.

Curiosity drives a science writing career

Siobhan Sanford has worked at scientific journals, at pharma and consulting companies and as a freelancer.

• Job Descriptions
• Science and Technology Job Descriptions

Research Specialist Job Description

A research specialist provides research and analysis for industry-specific labor and employee relations information. The research specialist designs, executes, and interprets research projects, and performs complex laboratory and data collection techniques.

Research Specialist Job Description Template

We are looking for a meticulous, detail-oriented research specialist to assist with the planning and conducting of scientific experiments and research projects. The research specialist's responsibilities include collecting, sorting, and analyzing data, developing, executing, and interpreting research projects, performing laboratory experiments for product development, and overseeing the daily laboratory tasks. As a research specialist, you will also assist in preparing complete documentation for experimental procedures, monitoring researchers in their assigned responsibilities, and presenting your findings to management.

To be a successful research specialist, you should understand and be able to apply research principles, concepts, practices, and methods. You should also possess strong analytical, mathematical, and research skills, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Research Specialist Responsibilities:

• Developing objectives and designing research projects and proposals.
• Formulating and conducting scientific experiments, performing data collection, and analyzing and evaluating test and research results.
• Replicating, evaluating, and refining research strategies and approaches and recommending improvements, and testing, customizing, and implementing new methods and procedures.
• Responding to research questions, troubleshooting problems, developing and writing advanced experimental protocols, and monitoring ongoing projects, and proposing and implementing changes.
• Proposing techniques to improve research quality and team productivity.
• Reporting equipment problems and assisting with setting up new equipment.
• Contributing to and writing research findings for publications, papers, presentations, grants, and other documents.
• Assisting with grant and manuscript submissions.
• Guiding, training, and advising junior researchers and students, and supporting senior research staff.
• Developing and following standard operating procedures, and adhering to company policies and safety guidelines.

Research Specialist Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in science or a related field.
• 3 years' research-related experience.
• Knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices, and methods.
• Knowledge of scientific laboratory research techniques.
• Computer literacy and strong mathematical, analytical, and research skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.

Related Articles:

Clinical research coordinator job description, research analyst job description, research specialist interview questions, research analyst interview questions, clinical research coordinator interview questions.

Cookies on BT.com

We use cookies to do things like remember what you've added to your shopping basket, offer live chat support and show you content we think you'll be interested in. If you're happy with the use of cookies by BT and selected partners, click OK.

• Why BT Business
• Culture at BT
• Careers at BT
• Search roles

Research Specialist, Cyber Threat Analysis and Prevention

Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, United Kingdom

This is a technical expert role in Research and Network Strategy where the individual will apply their key expertise within a clearly defined sphere of technical knowledge to complex business issues or opportunities. The role holder actively engages with colleagues to progress new research in important technical topics and supports the realisation of business value from research and innovation outputs.

This role is based in Ipswich or Bristol.

Our hybrid working model means you are required to be in the office 3 days per week.

• Managing research projects/tasks, both internal to Research and Network Strategy and with collaborative partners. • Domain expert responsible for maintaining expertise in a specific technical domain. • Responsible for intellectual property creation, managing patent filing in their team and supporting IPR exploitation where appropriate • Accountable for defining and performing research in a network threat data analysis and threat prevention and deliver high impact and high value across multiple domains. • Responsible for authoring thought leadership technical papers, capturing intellectual property  • Supervision of graduate and post-graduate student placements and secondments.

• Technical domain expert: Deep technical or domain expertise and recognised as a technical expert in threat identification including malware, DDoS and fakeware,  threat detection, threat analysis and threat prevention  • Expert communicator: Regularly presents to peers and managers about their research and area of technical expertise • Experienced in open innovation: Skilled in patenting, technical publications, conference presentations etc. • Storytelling with data: strong skills in building the case for change, drawing on data and analytical techniques where appropriate, and communicating this to  business audiences • Concept Evaluation: ability to spot relevant innovations, horizon scanning, determine relevance for the business, develop an effective conceptualisation and build trials to test the concept.

• Technical domain expert: evidence of significant knowledge and skill relevant to Network threat prevention including threat identification, threat detection, threat analysis and threat mitigation including AI/ML based anomaly detection , and novel authentication and encryption(MANDATORY) • Significant delivery: evidence of significant business impact through delivery of research (MANDATORY) • Stakeholder management: evidence of managing project stakeholders across the business at a variety of grade and seniority levels (MANDATORY) • Innovative Thinker: ability to spot and identify new innovations and act to bring them in and capitalise and create value (MANDATORY) • Commercial Applicability: understanding the business case principals around relevant innovations and the real value to the business through value proposition  build (MANDATORY) • Excellent awareness of industry trends, future direction and opportunities • Self-starter, pro-actively working with minimal guidance • Problem solving, intellectually curious, comfortable taking ownership and responsibility  

•    Competitive salary •    10% on target bonus •    BT Pension scheme, minimum 5% Employee contribution, BT contribution 10% •    25 days annual leave (not including bank holidays), increasing with service •    Huge range of flexible benefits including cycle to work, healthcare, season ticket loan •    World-class training and development opportunities •    Option to join BT Shares Saving schemes. •    Discounted broadband, mobile and TV packages •    Access to 100’s of retail discounts including the BT shop

Looking in: Leading inclusively and Safely I inspire and build trust through self-awareness, honesty and integrity. Owning outcomes I take the right decisions that benefit the broader organisation.

Looking out: Delivering for the customer I execute brilliantly on clear priorities that add value to our customers and the wider business. Commercially savvy I demonstrate strong commercial focus, bringing an external perspective to decision-making.

Looking to the future: Growth mindset I experiment and identify opportunities for growth for both myself and the organisation. Building for the future I build diverse future-ready teams where all individuals can be at their best.

BT is part of BT Group, along with EE, Openreach, and Plusnet.

Millions of people rely on us every day to help them live their lives, power their businesses, and keep their public services running. We connect friends to family, clients to colleagues, people to possibilities. We keep the wheels of business spinning, and the emergency services responding. 

We value diversity and celebrate difference. ‘We embed diversity and inclusion into everything that we do. It’s fundamental to our purpose: we connect for good.’

We all stick to the same values: Personal, Simple, and Brilliant. From day one, you’ll get stuck in to tough challenges, pitch in with ideas, make things happen. But you won’t be alone: we’ll be there with help and support, learning and development.  

This is your chance to make a real difference to the world: to be part of the digital transformation of countless lives and businesses. Grab it.

A FEW POINTS TO NOTE:

Although these roles are listed as full-time, if you’re a job share partnership, work reduced hours, or any other way of working flexibly, please still get in touch.

We will also offer reasonable adjustments for the selection process if required, so please do not hesitate to inform us.

DON'T MEET EVERY SINGLE REQUIREMENT?

Studies have shown that women and people who are disabled, LGBTQ+, neurodiverse or from ethnic minority backgrounds are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every single qualification and criteria. We're committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where everyone can be their best, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every requirement on the Job Description, please apply anyway - you may just be the right candidate for this or other roles in our wider team.

©BT Group 2022

Cookie Consent Manager

When you visit any website, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Because we respect your right to privacy, you can choose not to allow some types of cookies. However, blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.

Required Cookies

These cookies are required to use this website and can't be turned off.

Functional Cookies

These cookies provide a better customer experience on this site, such as by remembering your login details, optimising video performance or providing us with information about how our site is used. You may freely choose to accept or decline these cookies at any time. Note that certain functionalities that these third-parties make available may be impacted if you do not accept these cookies.

Advertising Cookies

These cookies serve ads that are relevant to your interests. You may freely choose to accept or decline these cookies at any time. Note that certain functionality that these third parties make available may be impacted if you do not accept these cookies.