What does a Research Scientist do?

Research Scientists find solutions to problems and answers to scientific questions. They typically specialize in one discipline, such as chemistry, biology, physics, meteorology, medical science, geoscience or pharmacology, and use that knowledge to design studies, carry out research and interpret results. For for-profit companies, Research Scientists may aid in product development, safety testing and quality control efforts.

At research institutes, colleges and universities and medical institutions, the work of Research Scientists helps to advance various branches of science. Research Scientists may also work for government agencies, such as the US military or the Department of Energy, conducting studies that inform policy making decisions.

Research Scientist skills and qualifications

To succeed in their roles, Research Scientists may have the following qualifications:

• Extensive knowledge of one or more branches of science, such as chemistry, biology or physics

• Ability to operate relevant laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, calorimeters, centrifuges, autoclaves, pH meters, spectrophotometers, magnetic stirrers and incubators

• Analytical and problem-solving skills to develop studies and draw conclusions from gathered data

• Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate with laboratory staff, make presentations and write papers and proposals

• Mathematical skills to perform calculations and analyze data

• Management and leadership skills to supervise laboratory staff

• Computer skills to use analytical, statistical, reference manager, presentation, word processing and other relevant software programs

• Understanding of laws and regulations related to scientific research and laboratory safety

Research Scientist experience requirements

How much experience a Research Scientist needs for your open position depends on the existing laboratory team. Research Scientists joining a large team of experienced Researchers may need little to no previous work experience. However, if your new hire will be the sole scientist with a certain specialty or you need a Senior or Principal Research Scientist to lead a less-experienced team, you may prefer to hire candidates with several years of laboratory work history.

Research Scientist education and training requirements

A graduate-level degree in a scientific field is usually the minimum education requirement for Research Scientists. Most employers prefer candidates who hold a doctorate degree, but a master’s degree may be sufficient for some positions.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires laboratory personnel who work with hazardous chemicals or blood-borne pathogens to undergo safety training. While you can provide this training on the job, some programs award certificates in laboratory safety. If you need your new hire to begin working quickly, you may state that a lab safety certificate is a necessary or preferred qualification in your Research Scientist job description.

Voluntary professional certifications can set candidates for Research Scientist positions apart. These certifications usually relate to a particular field of scientific inquiry and require candidates to meet experience and education requirements and pass examinations. Examples of relevant certifications include the Certified Professional Chemist (CPC) credential for Chemists granted by the American Institute of Chemists (AIC) and The Association of Clinical Research Professionals Certified Professional (ACRP-CP) designation for Medical Scientists granted by the ACRP.

Job description samples for similar positions

If Research Scientist isn’t an exact match for your open position, consider the job descriptions for these related positions:

• Research Analyst

• Research Assistant

• Research Associate

• Researcher

Research Scientist job description FAQs

What is a Research Scientist vs. a Research Analyst?

Research Scientists and Research Analysts manage study data, but they work in different fields. Research Scientists investigate physical and life sciences, while Research Analysts focus on business-related topics, such as marketing and finance.

What’s the difference between a Research Scientist and a Researcher?

The difference between a Researcher and a Research Scientist is the specificity of the terms. A Researcher may conduct research related to business, social sciences, computer science or natural sciences, while Research Scientists focus exclusively on life and physical sciences.

What do Research Scientists do compared to Research Assistants?

In a laboratory, Research Scientists serve as leaders, designing studies, directing the activities of other laboratory personnel, performing the final analysis of results and preparing papers. Research Assistants usually report to Research Scientists. They perform supportive tasks, such as setting up equipment, monitoring studies and creating tables and graphs.