What does a researcher do?
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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?
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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.
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What does a Researcher do?
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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Mike Dalley
HR and Learning & Development Expert
Reviewed by Chris Leitch
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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.
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Researcher Job Description
Researchers are employed in almost every industry to recognize patterns, locate, analyze, and interpret data. They may work in academia, science, medicine, finance, and other sectors, with varying duties depending on their research goals. Researchers use the internet, books, published articles, or surveys and interviews to gather data.
Researcher Job Description Template
We are looking to hire a dependable researcher to work on various company projects. The researcher's duties include aligning methodologies with research goals, using a range of tools to acquire information and interpret data, writing up reports and presenting findings and schedules to management and other stakeholders, identifying trends and patterns, conducting fieldwork and tests when required, as well as protecting databases and confidential information. You should be able to deliver presentations and communicate effectively at all levels.
To be successful as a researcher, you should be resourceful, and demonstrate excellent time management and patience. Outstanding researchers are passionate about their subject matter and able to meet strict deadlines.
Researcher Responsibilities:
- Interpreting research specifications and developing a work plan that satisfies requirements.
- Conducting desktop research, and using books, journal articles, newspaper sources, questionnaires, surveys, polls, and interviews to gather data.
- Analyzing and interpreting patterns and trends.
- Recording findings by taking written notes and using appropriate software.
- Maintaining and protecting electronic databases.
- Assisting management with budget and time schedules.
- Anticipating research issues and promptly resolving them.
- Promptly reporting any problems to the relevant stakeholders.
- Following a strict code of ethics and protecting any confidential information at all times.
- Writing proposals and delivering presentations when required.
Researcher Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree in research or similar.
- Master's degree preferable.
- Proven experience in a research field.
- Sound understanding of research methodologies.
- Proficiency in MS Office.
- Strong statistical and mathematical aptitude.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Practical experience in database management.
- Attention to detail and exceptional written, verbal, and telephonic communication skills.
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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.
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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.
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- Resume and Cover Letter
- Research Assistant Job...
Research Assistant Job Description: All Key Roles & Duties
6 min read · Updated on June 03, 2024
![research work job meaning Marsha Hebert](https://s3.amazonaws.com/resume.cdn/articles/authors/149_247127_MarshaHebert.jpg)
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
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Software Developer Top Needed Skills
See how your resume stacks up.
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What is exactly meant by "research experience" in grad application?
I'm confused by what the term "research experience" actually means in a PhD application. The following examples come into my mind:
- working as research assistant with university professor
- publishing research papers in conferences
- work in R&D division of company (industry research)
Do all examples of the list above count as research experience? Or which ones do? If so, what are they?
Which ones are more important and provide competitive advantage for getting accepted to good university?
- graduate-admissions
- terminology
![research work job meaning Wrzlprmft's user avatar](https://i.sstatic.net/Zsocy.jpg?s=64)
- 3 I can confirm that RA experience and published work counted as research experience when I applied to my PhD. – user7112 Commented Jan 11, 2014 at 11:28
3 Answers 3
I would say all of those count as "research experience". Which ones will be most valued depends on the nature of the program you're applying to, and the exact nature of the work you did. In general, though, the more independent your work was, the better, and the more generic it was, the worse. So if you were a research assistant but all you did was photocopy documents, that will not earn you many points. If you were a research assistant who, e.g., conducted experiments, did fieldwork, participated in lab meetings, whatever, those will be worth more. If you actually contributed to the writing of papers or presentation at conferences, even better.
As a rule of thumb, the more that what you did was something other people could not have done (i.e., it required your special expertise, not just "more hands'), the "better" it is.
![research work job meaning BrenBarn's user avatar](https://i.sstatic.net/QWHKg.png?s=64)
Most of the applicants for PhD positions (after bachelor, different for master) don't have much research experience or have even written a paper as first author, more common would be poster at a conference. So if you have to show something here over average, list it in your application.
As professors get sometimes over 100 applications for PhD positions, more importantly list in bullet points what you experience handling distinct scientific methods is (technical terminus and usage time, e.g. electron microscopy on biological objects for one year or matlab scripting on neural networks for 6 months) . As soon as you have worked for several weeks with a distinct technique, list it as research experience (name - object - duration)
This profile of your expertise is in the end to my experience more important to a professor/distinct position than a higher number of posters/papers of a distinct candidate, because it depends more on your team/advisor/co-workers if you publish before PhD a lot
It means during your undergraduate or after your undergraduate or in masters (if you are going for a PhD program), what did you do that counts as research.
In PhD application, the committee is looking for whether you already have warmed up for research or not because PhD is about taking a problem and doing research which only you could have done.
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Clinical Research Coordinator Associate (1 Year Fixed Term, Hybrid Opportunity)
🔍 school of medicine, stanford, california, united states.
Dr. Emmanuel Mignot’s laboratory within the Division of Sleep Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences is seeking a Clinical Research Coordinator Associate to perform duties related to the collection of clinical data and the coordination of clinical studies. The Mignot laboratory in connection with the Center for Narcolepsy combines basic molecular research with translational and clinical research. This position will work under the supervision of the senior clinical research coordinator and will collaborate with a team of clinical research coordinators while taking the lead role and coordinating moderately complex aspects of an ongoing study.
This position will be located at the Stanford Redwood City campus and has the option of telecommuting/hybrid schedule subject to operational needs. This position is a one-year fixed term for the duration of the study ending in July 2025.
Duties include:
- Serve as primary contact with research participants, sponsors, and regulatory agencies. Coordinate studies from startup through close-out.
- Determine eligibility of and gather consent from study participants according to protocol. Assist in developing recruitment strategies.
- Coordinate collection of study specimens and processing.
- Collect and manage patient and laboratory data for clinical research projects. Manage research project databases, develop flow sheets and other study related documents, and complete study documents/case report forms.
- Ensure compliance with research protocols, and review and audit case report forms for completion and accuracy with source documents. Prepare regulatory submissions, and ensure institutional Review Board renewals are completed.
- Assemble study kits for study visits, monitor scheduling of procedures and charges, coordinate documents, and attend monitoring meetings with sponsors, acting as primary contact.
- Monitor expenditures and adherence to study budgets and resolve billing issues in collaboration with finance and/or management staff.
- Interact with the principal investigator regularly, ensuring patient safety and adherence to proper study conduct.
- Ensure essential documentation and recording of patient and research data in appropriate files per institutional and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in monitor visits and regulatory audits.
- - Other duties may also be assigned
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Valid State of California Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) Certificate
- 1 year of phlebotomy experience
- 2 years of related experience in clinical trial coordination.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
- Two-year college degree and two years related work experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field or an equivalent combination of related education and relevant experience.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
- Knowledge of medical terminology.
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:
- Society of Clinical Research Associates or Association of Clinical Research Professionals certification is preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat and use fine light/fine grasping.
- Occasionally sit, reach above shoulders, perform desk-based computer tasks, use a telephone and write by hand, lift, carry, push, and pull objects that weigh up to 40 pounds.
- Rarely kneel, crawl, climb ladders, grasp forcefully, sort and file paperwork or parts, rarely lift, carry, push, and pull objects that weigh 40 pounds or more.
- - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Occasional evening and weekend hours.
- This position is based in Stanford’s Research Park and Stanford main campus and has the option of telecommuting/hybrid schedule subject to operational needs.
The expected pay range for this position is $31.73 to $36.54 per hour. Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.
* - Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
- Schedule: Full-time
- Job Code: 1013
- Employee Status: Fixed-Term
- Requisition ID: 104202
- Work Arrangement : Hybrid Eligible
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The skills you need to succeed in the era of large language models
Today artificial intelligence can be harnessed by nearly anyone, using commands in everyday language instead of code. Soon it will transform more than 40% of all work activity, according to the authors’ research. In this new era of collaboration between humans and machines, the ability to leverage AI effectively will be critical to your professional success.
This article describes the three kinds of “fusion skills” you need to get the best results from gen AI. Intelligent interrogation involves instructing large language models to perform in ways that generate better outcomes—by, say, breaking processes down into steps or visualizing multiple potential paths to a solution. Judgment integration is about incorporating expert and ethical human discernment to make AI’s output more trustworthy, reliable, and accurate. It entails augmenting a model’s training sources with authoritative knowledge bases when necessary, keeping biases out of prompts, ensuring the privacy of any data used by the models, and scrutinizing suspect output. With reciprocal apprenticing, you tailor gen AI to your company’s specific business context by including rich organizational data and know-how into the commands you give it. As you become better at doing that, you yourself learn how to train the AI to tackle more-sophisticated challenges.
The AI revolution is already here. Learning these three skills will prepare you to thrive in it.
Generative artificial intelligence is expected to radically transform all kinds of jobs over the next few years. No longer the exclusive purview of technologists, AI can now be put to work by nearly anyone, using commands in everyday language instead of code. According to our research, most business functions and more than 40% of all U.S. work activity can be augmented, automated, or reinvented with gen AI. The changes are expected to have the largest impact on the legal, banking, insurance, and capital-market sectors—followed by retail, travel, health, and energy.
- H. James Wilson is the global managing director of technology research and thought leadership at Accenture Research. He is the coauthor, with Paul R. Daugherty, of Human + Machine: Reimagining Work in the Age of AI, New and Expanded Edition (HBR Press, 2024). hjameswilson
- Paul R. Daugherty is Accenture’s chief technology and innovation officer. He is the coauthor, with H. James Wilson, of Human + Machine: Reimagining Work in the Age of AI, New and Expanded Edition (HBR Press, 2024). pauldaugh
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Postdoctoral research associate.
Apply now Back to search results Job no: 530570 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences Department: Food Science and Technology Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Categories: Agriculture / Life Science
Job Description
The position is available beginning in September 2024. The successful candidate will primarily work on funded research projects to conduct techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment to evaluate the economic and environmental aspects of novel processing technologies. The candidate will also work on bench experiments to convert food waste and processing byproducts into value-added products via chemical and biological pathways. The successful candidate will have opportunities to assist in writing research proposals to seek funding and mentoring graduate students.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in agricultural engineering, bioprocessing engineering, chemical engineering, food science and technology, environmental engineering, or other related disciplines awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of the appointment with a minimum of one year of eligibility remaining; Self-motivated; Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively; Good oral and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Research experiences in techno-economic analysis, life cycle assessment, or process simulations Demonstrated a good publication record
Appointment Type
Salary Information
53,550-65,029
Review Date
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges , a school of medicine , a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School , and Honors College . The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers . A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.
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The Food Science and Technology Department in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech seeks a postdoctoral associate |
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Assistant Coordinator - Dairy Products and Processing Technology
- Madison, Wisconsin
- COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL & LIFE SCIENCES/DAIRY RESEARCH, CENTER FOR
- Staff-Full Time
- Opening at: Aug 14 2024 at 16:35 CDT
- Closing at: Sep 8 2024 at 23:55 CDT
Job Summary:
The Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (CDR) is hiring an assistant coordinator. CDR is a national leader in dairy research and education. We oversee research related to dairy science and technology and interact with clients in the dairy industry to assist with product development, process improvement, and troubleshooting. The selected candidate will support the center's efforts in adding value to the dairy industry. This work involves managing projects related to product development, ingredient evaluation, industry troubleshooting and technical support for cultured products, beverages & other dairy based applications for CDR clients and research partners. The position will also assist with scale-up activities, visit industry facilities and pilot plants, take relevant training courses, and stay abreast of developments related to dairy processing. The assistant coordinator will be required to prepare, record and track trials as well as prepare detailed reports for clients/stakeholders. Our ideal candidate will possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, have excellent organizational and/or project management skills, and have the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively. The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) is committed to maintaining and growing a culture that embraces diversity, inclusion, and equity, believing that these values are foundational elements of our excellence and fundamental components of a positive and enriching learning and working environment for all students, faculty, and staff. At CALS, we acknowledge that bias, prejudice, racism, and hate have historically occurred in many forms that cause significant and lasting harm to members of our community. We commit to taking actions each day toward a college that is inclusive and welcoming to all.
Responsibilities:
- 40% Directs the development of research methodologies and procedures according to client-based objectives and specifications
- 5% Identifies concerns and recommends solutions to leadership
- 20% Collects and analyzes moderately complex research data for one or more research projects. Designs and conducts experiments and interviews. Documents results according to established policies and procedures
- 5% Prepares reports and materials and disseminates information to appropriate entities
- 5% Reviews and edits research protocols under limited supervision
- 5% Participates in research publishing and informational presentations to contribute to the development of (research type)
- 5% Supervises day-to-day operations of a research unit and may supervise others within a specialized laboratory or research area
- 15% Serves as a subject matter expert and unit liaison to internal and external stakeholder groups providing information and representing the interests of the unit
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals. The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world. For more information on diversity and inclusion on campus, please visit: Diversity and Inclusion
Required Bachelor's Degree in Dairy Science, Food Science, Food Engineering, or related field Preferred Master's Degree
Qualifications:
Required: - Extensive experience in the food and beverage or related industry. - Strong knowledge of dairy chemistry and technology. - Experience working with finished product formulation and/or ingredient applications across the food and beverage markets. Preferred: - Experience with operating dairy processing equipment. - Familiarity with formulation software and/or Microsoft Excel. - Protein and ingredient functionality testing experience. - Beverage application experience.
Full Time: 100% It is anticipated this position requires work be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location. Normal hours are 7:45am - 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. Occasional nights and weekends may be required for this position.
Appointment Type, Duration:
Ongoing/Renewable
Minimum $62,000 ANNUAL (12 months) Depending on Qualifications Actual salary will depend on experience and qualifications. Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. Additional benefits information can be found at: https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf
Additional Information:
- Criminal Background Check may be required - Evaluation Period may be required - Some travel may be required - University sponsorship is available for this position
How to Apply:
Click on the "Apply Online" button to start the application process. You will be prompted to upload the following documents/Application Materials: Resume (required) - Detail your educational and professional background Cover letter (required) - Refer to your related work experience References (required) - List contact information for three (3) references, including your current/most recent supervisor. References will not be contacted without prior notice. It is important that your cover letter and resume reflect your experience for this position related to the Qualifications section. Your application materials will be used during our evaluation to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. The most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process.
Tina Chorlton [email protected] 608-262-3416 Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.
Official Title:
Client-Based Researcher II(RE002)
Department(s):
A07-COL OF AG & LIFE SCIENCES/DAIRY RES, CTR FOR
Employment Class:
Academic Staff-Renewable
Job Number:
The university of wisconsin-madison is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer..
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Will A.I. Kill Meaningless Jobs?
And is that so bad?
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By Emma Goldberg
- Aug. 3, 2024
When Brad Wang started his first job in the tech industry, right after college, he marveled at the way Silicon Valley had turned the drudgery of the workplace into a sumptuousness of game rooms, nap pods and leafy hiking trails. This is what it must have felt like to be a guest showing up for a party at Jay Gatsby’s house, Mr. Wang thought.
But under the glitz was a kind of hollowness. He hopped from one software engineering role to another, toiling on some projects that he felt were meaningless. At Google, he worked for 15 months on an initiative that higher-ups decided to keep pursuing even though they knew it would never launch. He then spent more than a year at Facebook on a product whose primary customer at one point described it to the engineers as unhelpful.
Over time, the pointlessness of his work began to incense Mr. Wang: “It’s like baking a pie that’s going right into the trash can.”
There is a long tradition in the corporate world of clocking in only to wonder: What’s the point? During the pandemic, tens of thousands of people joined the subreddit page r/antiwork to share quips about rejecting drudge work and, in most cases, all work. In the 1990s, “Office Space” parodied the grind of corporate life, making famous the sentiment : “It’s not that I’m lazy, it’s that I just don’t care.” Long before that, Herman Melville’s “Bartleby, the Scrivener” followed a law clerk — the original quiet quitter — who responds to every one of his boss’s demands by saying “I would prefer not to,” until he is put under arrest, and, eventually, dies.
The corporate office and its paperwork have a way of turning even ostensibly good jobs — the kind that provide decent salaries and benefits and take place behind ergonomic keyboards in climate-controlled comfort — into soul-sucking drudgery.
In 2013, the now deceased radical anthropologist, David Graeber, gave the world a distinct way to think about this problem in an essay called “ On the Phenomenon of Bullshit Jobs. ” This anticapitalist polemic by the man who had helped coin Occupy Wall Street’s iconic “99 percent” slogan went viral, seemingly speaking to a widely felt 21st Century frustration. Mr. Graeber developed it into a book that delved deeper on the subject.
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CAREER & HIRING ADVICE
11 surprising job satisfaction statistics.
- Ryan Bradshaw
- March 14, 2024
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Whether you’re in university, looking for a job, or already have one, job satisfaction statistics can give you a lot of helpful information.
Knowing what jobs are most satisfying can help you decide on a future career or give you the motivation to switch to a more fulfilling job.
Job satisfaction statistics reveal that some of the most satisfying jobs include clergy, chiropractor, chief executive, and nurse. Roofers, waiters, bartenders, and cashiers have low satisfaction. In the U.S., 65% of employees are satisfied with their jobs, with 20% being passionate about their jobs.
There are hundreds of statistics out there. But if you’re looking for some of the most crucial job satisfaction statistics, you’ve come to the right place.
This article will cover which jobs are the most satisfying and why their satisfaction levels tower over other career paths.
Why Does Job Satisfaction Matter?
Job satisfaction can majorly affect workers, which in turn affects the company .
When employees are satisfied with their careers, they usually align with the company’s goals and mission. An employee who supports the company’s mission will be loyal and more likely to spread only good things about the company to friends and family.
Introducing unique corporate rewards can further enhance this satisfaction, directly contributing to an employee’s sense of value and belonging within the organization.
There’s also lower turnover when most of the employees are satisfied with their jobs. The lower turnover will help the HR department save money and spend more time finding qualified future employees.
Satisfied employees are also more productive. If they believe in what they’re doing, they’ll want to get the job done and get it done well for the sake of the company and team. These actions will then increase profit since they’re working harder.
As we can see, job satisfaction is crucial to a company’s success. However, it’s also essential for the well-being of the employee. Job satisfaction will significantly influence the employee’s mindset and happiness in the workplace.
General Job Satisfaction Statistics
Now, let’s take a look at some general job satisfaction statistics.
We now know that job satisfaction is essential for both the employees and the company. Learning more about job satisfaction worldwide can help you choose a better job or help you realign your goals if you’re in charge of a company.
- 65% of employees in the US are satisfied with their job
- 20% of employees in the US are passionate about their job
- 60% of employees believe that their coworkers are the biggest contributor to their happiness at work
- Companies with high worker satisfaction outperform low satisfaction companies by 202%
- 45% of Generation Y (Millennials) are completely satisfied with their current job/career path
- 74% of employees in the US believe that company culture is one of the biggest contributing factors to job satisfaction
- 58% of employees in Japan are unsatisfied with their job
- 57% of employees that work from home are satisfied with their job
- 81% of employees in the legal industry find their job boring and dissatisfying
Offering employee incentives can significantly boost these satisfaction rates, further enhancing employee engagement and retention.
What Are the Most Satisfying Jobs in the World?
Now that we’re familiar with some general job satisfaction statistics, let’s look at the world’s most satisfying jobs.
Job satisfaction will increase your overall happiness and feelings of fulfillment in life. If you don’t have a satisfying job, perhaps it is time to consider moving to a different industry.
Several surveys by CareerBliss, PayScale, and US News & World Report have found the following jobs to be the most satisfying:
- Chiropractor
- Chief Executive
- Conservation Scientist
- Medical and Health Services Manager
- Firefighter
- Human Resources Manager
- Physical Therapist
- Software Developer
- Psychologists
Why Are These Jobs So Satisfying?
There are a few reasons why these jobs are satisfying.
First of all, in most of these jobs, you’ll find that there’s something new every day. Completing the same task daily can become boring quite quickly, but when each shift is a surprise and less repetitive, the job will feel more interesting.
Another factor that contributes to satisfaction is stress. If you’re not working long, intense hours every day, you won’t be as stressed. Jobs with limited stress and regular hours will be better for a person’s overall health in the long term.
Many of these jobs will also have a positive company culture and opportunities for advancement. If an employee doesn’t feel that they’re moving forward in their job, they won’t be satisfied.
Another thing that several of these jobs have in common is that employees are helping people. Social psychologist Elizabeth Dunn explains in her Ted talk that helping others makes us happier. The more employees help people, the more satisfied with their job they feel.
Finally, the majority of the jobs on the list have high salaries. When employees don’t have to worry about having enough money to pay their bills, their stress level will significantly decrease.
Lower amounts of stress will lead to higher job satisfaction.
What Are Some of the Least Satisfying Jobs in the World?
Now we know the most satisfying jobs in the world , let’s see the least satisfying jobs .
However, it’s worth noting that even the lowest-paying jobs can be satisfying depending on the employee. Not all workplaces are the same; this factor can greatly affect how satisfying the job is.
With that in mind, here are the least satisfying jobs:
- Parking Lot Attendants
- Printing Machine Operators
- Fast Food Cooks
- Motorboat Mechanics
- Dishwashers
- Cafeteria Attendants
- Laundry / Dry Cleaning Workers
- Home Furnishing Salespersons
Why Aren’t These Jobs Satisfying?
Even though there could be many reasons why these jobs aren’t satisfying, there are a few common ones that employees mention.
One of the main reasons people don’t feel satisfied with their job is that they cannot live comfortably off the salary. When workers have to struggle to pay their rent and grocery bills, it’ll be hard to feel fulfilled with their current job.
Many of these jobs also don’t have benefits, such as health insurance or work bonuses. This factor may lead to workers feeling stuck in a job with no opportunity or support.
Another factor that could lead to a dissatisfying job is a lack of flexibility. Many higher-paying job employees will have the opportunity to choose their hours and take vacations throughout the year.
However, the jobs in the list above won’t be as flexible, becoming the center of an employee’s life.
Many of these jobs also have a high employee turnover. A high turnover will make it hard for employees to build meaningful relationships with one another.
Since 60% of employees believe that coworker relationships are the key to job satisfaction, this could be a major factor affecting an employee’s daily experience.
These jobs don’t feel as satisfying because they don’t revolve around helping people. While employers in these careers help customers on a surface level, you’re not changing people’s lives on a deeper and more meaningful level.
There are a few factors that can affect job satisfaction. These can include coworkers, company culture, pay, flexibility, benefits, tasks, and company mission statements.
Some of the most satisfying jobs are Clergy, chiropractors, physicians, teachers, dentists, and firefighters. A few of the least satisfying jobs include fast-food cooks, waiters, parking lot attendants, bartenders, and roofers.
If you find yourself in a dissatisfying job, consider reading The Art of Find the Job You Love: An Unconventional Guide to Work with Meaning by Cara Heilmann.
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Sample researcher job description Here is a sample job description for a researcher: Bright Solutions, Inc., wants to hire a reliable researcher to work on a variety of research projects for the company. The researcher's duties include using different tools to gather and interpret data, aligning research methodology with research goals, drafting reports and presentations on research findings ...
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 ...
Researchers work in almost every industry and are hired to recognize patterns and locate, analyze, and interpret data. They work in fields including academia, science, medicine, finance, and other sectors. Their workload depends upon and is influenced by their research goals. They cultivate information and gather data using the internet, books ...
Types of researcher careers you can pursue. Here are 15 careers in the research field to consider: 1. Research assistant. National average salary: $45,249 per year Primary duties: A research assistant works on a research team, gathering and organizing data and information from a variety of sources.
Research scientists conduct laboratory-based experiments and trials and work in many fields including medicine, political science, computer science, and environmental science. They plan and conduct experiments that become topics of research papers and reports. They collect samples and carry out other types of field research and monitor their ...
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.
What is a field researcher? A field researcher is a professional who conducts research and collects data outside of laboratory settings. They can work in a variety of fields, including biology, anthropology, sociology or political science. They may collect data for universities, research institutions, think tanks, government agencies or private ...
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 ...
Researcher Job Description Template. We are looking to hire a dependable researcher to work on various company projects. The researcher's duties include aligning methodologies with research goals, using a range of tools to acquire information and interpret data, writing up reports and presenting findings and schedules to management and other stakeholders, identifying trends and patterns ...
Common research skills necessary for a variety of jobs include attention to detail, time management, and problem solving. Here we explore what research skills are, examples of in-demand research skills, how you can improve and use research skills at work, and how to highlight your research skills during the job search process.
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.
The main qualifications are an interest in the research subject and strong communication skills. You usually need to be enrolled in a relevant degree program at the school to qualify. The short-term goal of a research intern position is to gain academic credit or work experience. The long-term goal is to turn the internship into a career.
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 ...
Here is a list of eight popular types of research jobs for you to explore: 1. Agricultural and food scientist. National average salary: ₹ 4,29,390 per year Primary duties: Agricultural or food research scientists work to improve and protect agricultural establishments and products.
Astronomy research associate: Astronomy research associates contribute to the study of celestial bodies and phenomena. They use various tools, such as telescopes and satellites, to collect data and help expand humankind's understanding of the universe. Botany research associate: A botany research associate facilitates the study of plant life.
In addition to competitive pay, Pew Research Center's employees enjoy a robust total rewards packagethat includes: Affordable, comprehensive health care and employer-paid disability and life insurance. Generous paid annual leave plan. Up to a 12% employer 401 (k) contribution, with vesting at the end of the first year. A 37.5-hour workweek.
Researcher Duties and Responsibilities. Researchers often work with a team of other researchers and committees to plan research objectives and test parameters. They also identify research methods, variables, data collection techniques and analysis methods. Researchers monitor the project to make sure it follows the requirements and standards.
Which ones will be most valued depends on the nature of the program you're applying to, and the exact nature of the work you did. In general, though, the more independent your work was, the better, and the more generic it was, the worse. So if you were a research assistant but all you did was photocopy documents, that will not earn you many points.
We all search for meaning in our lives, and many of us find it through our work.In fact, research shows that meaningfulness is more important to us than any other aspect of our jobs — including ...
Learn about the Transportation Research Board, a division of the National Academies that provides leadership and innovation in transportation research and policy.
The Mignot laboratory in connection with the Center for Narcolepsy combines basic molecular research with translational and clinical research. This position will work under the supervision of the senior clinical research coordinator and will collaborate with a team of clinical research coordinators while taking the lead role and coordinating ...
Soon it will transform more than 40% of all work activity, according to the authors' research. In this new era of collaboration between humans and machines, the ability to leverage AI ...
Another challenge of being a research assistant is contributing your time and effort to someone else's academic success with only the hope that your work opens the door to future opportunities. But becoming a research assistant is a great opportunity job for diligent students who envision a career in academia or scholarly research.
Job Description. The position is available beginning in September 2024. The successful candidate will primarily work on funded research projects to conduct techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment to evaluate the economic and environmental aspects of novel processing technologies. The candidate will also work on bench experiments to ...
Job Summary: The Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (CDR) is hiring an assistant coordinator. CDR is a national leader in dairy research and education. We oversee research related to dairy science and technology and interact with clients in the dairy industry to assist with product development, process improvement, and troubleshooting. The selected candidate will ...
A quarter of the work force in rich countries sees their jobs as potentially pointless, according to a study by the Dutch economists Robert Dur and Max van Lent. ... per Mr. Graeber's definition ...
Research skills are the ability to find an answer to a question or a solution to a problem. They include your ability to gather information about a topic, review that information and analyze and interpret the details in a way to support a solution. Having research skills is necessary to advance your career as they directly relate to your ...
Job satisfaction statistics reveal that some of the most satisfying jobs include clergy, chiropractor, chief executive, and nurse. Roofers, waiters, bartenders, and cashiers have low satisfaction. In the U.S., 65% of employees are satisfied with their jobs, with 20% being passionate about their jobs. There are hundreds of statistics out there.
Work-related stress caused by job strain and an imbalance between efforts applied vs. rewards received may increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation, according to new research published ...
Tsar or otherwise, the job was a daunting, thankless task. Successfully dealing with decades of underinvestment and the region's deep-seated economic and political strife would require huge ...