research paper job description

Explore Jobs

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

Find Specific Jobs

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

Explore Careers

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

Explore Professions

What They Do

• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

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

What does a Researcher do?

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

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

Researcher responsibilities

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

Here are examples of responsibilities from real researcher resumes:

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

Researcher skills and personality traits

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Most common researcher skills

The three companies that hire the most researchers are:

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

Choose from 10+ customizable researcher resume templates

Compare different researchers

Researcher vs. postdoctoral associate.

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

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

Researcher vs. Doctoral student

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

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

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

Dean , La Sierra University

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

Researcher vs. Doctoral fellow

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

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

Researcher vs. Fellow

Types of researcher.

• Graduate Research Student
• Research Fellow

Research Technician

Research scientist.

• Doctoral Fellow

Updated June 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

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

What a Researcher Does FAQs

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

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

Researcher Related Careers

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

Researcher Related Jobs

Researcher jobs by location.

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

Browse life, physical, and social science jobs

Research Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the era of information and technological advancement, the role of research specialists has become increasingly significant.

As the scientific and technological landscape advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can conduct, interpret, and apply research in various fields continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a research specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of research and its implications,

You have come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable research specialist job description template, created for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Research Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Research Specialists are primarily responsible for conducting in-depth research in their specific field, analyzing data, and presenting findings.

They use a range of methodologies to gather information and contribute to knowledge advancement or organizational improvements.

Research Specialists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct extensive research in a specific area of expertise
• Use a variety of research methods such as surveys, interviews, and data analysis
• Collaborate with other team members or departments to align research objectives with organizational goals
• Document and present research findings in a clear and concise manner
• Advise on strategies or improvements based on research data
• Stay updated with the latest research trends and techniques
• Prepare reports and presentations that summarize research activities and results
• Provide training and guidance to junior research staff
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive database of research sources and references
• Ensure all research activities are compliant with applicable regulations and ethical standards

Research Specialist Job Description Template

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Research Specialist to contribute to the discovery and creation of new knowledge in our organization.

The Research Specialist will be responsible for designing and conducting research studies, analyzing data, interpreting and reporting findings, and maintaining accurate and complete records of all research activities.

The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, be detail-oriented, and have a knack for handling complex information.

Responsibilities

• Design, plan and execute experiments under the direction of a lead researcher.
• Collect, manage, and analyze large volumes of data using statistical software.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all research and findings.
• Prepare reports and presentations of research outcomes.
• Stay current with the latest trends and advancements in the field.
• Work collaboratively with team members and other departments.
• Assist in the preparation of research grants and proposals.
• Ensure all work is carried out in compliance with standard protocols and safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a research specialist or similar role.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and statistical methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Advanced degree is a plus.
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

• Job Title: Research Specialist
• Work Environment: Laboratory setting. Some fieldwork may be required depending on the nature of the research project.
• 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: $50,000 minimum to $85,000 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Research Specialist Do?

Research Specialists typically work in a variety of industries including academia, healthcare, technology, and finance.

They can also work as independent consultants.

Their main role is to conduct comprehensive, in-depth research on specific topics related to their field of expertise.

They collect, analyze and interpret data, using various methodologies and software.

They may also use surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather qualitative data.

Research Specialists often collaborate with other professionals in their field to develop research objectives, determine the most effective methods of data collection, and interpret findings.

They prepare and present reports on their research findings and recommendations, often writing research papers, articles, or case studies.

In addition, they may also be responsible for keeping up with the latest research techniques and data analytics tools, and they often participate in professional development activities.

Research Specialists play a crucial role in influencing business strategy, policy development, and decision making, based on their research findings.

Therefore, accuracy, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills are essential for this role.

Research Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A competent Research Specialist should possess the following qualifications and skills that align with the job role:

• Strong analytical skills to evaluate, analyze, and interpret scientific data and research findings.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to navigate through various research problems and develop feasible solutions.
• Proficiency in using specialized software and tools relevant to the field of research.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks, using effective time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting research findings, writing research reports, and collaborating with other team members.
• Attention to detail for conducting precise and accurate research, as well as documenting findings meticulously.
• Knowledge of research methodologies, statistical analysis, and data interpretation techniques.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Adaptability and flexibility to adjust to new research techniques and trends.

Research Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Research Specialists may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through research assistant roles or internships in academia, government, or industry sectors.

This experience provides them with the necessary knowledge of research methodologies, data collection, and analysis.

Candidates with 2 to 4 years of experience might have been involved in more complex research projects, possibly even in leading roles, and have honed their skills in data interpretation, project planning, and report writing.

These individuals often possess a strong understanding of the specific field they work in and are capable of designing and managing their own projects.

Research Specialists with more than 5 years of experience often have proven records of successful project completion and may have experience in grant writing or research publication.

These candidates are often considered experts in their field and may be ready for a managerial role, overseeing multiple projects or leading a team of junior researchers.

In addition, such individuals often have advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D., which can be a common requirement for senior Research Specialist positions.

Research Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Research Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to their area of research.

For instance, a Research Specialist in a scientific field may need a degree in biology, chemistry, or physics, while those in a social science field may need a degree in sociology, psychology, or anthropology.

In addition to the foundational degree, they often need training in research methods and statistical analysis.

This can be acquired through coursework in their degree program or through additional training and certifications.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or Ph.D., especially for those conducting high-level research or leading research projects.

These advanced degrees would provide more specialized knowledge and expertise.

Research Specialists also need skills in using specific research tools and software.

The type of software will depend on their field of research, but could include programs for statistical analysis, qualitative data analysis, or scientific modeling.

Continuing education is often important in this role, as new research methods and technologies are constantly emerging.

This could take the form of professional development courses, workshops, or conferences.

Finally, many Research Specialists also need to have strong writing skills, as they often need to write research proposals, reports, and articles for publication.

Some Research Specialists may pursue additional training in scientific or technical writing to enhance these skills.

Research Specialist Salary Expectations

A Research Specialist typically earns an average salary of $59,474 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the sector of their research, education, and the location of the employing organization.

Research Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a research specialist need.

A Research Specialist needs strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and make accurate conclusions.

They should also possess excellent communication skills to present their findings clearly.

Proficiency in research software and databases, along with a high level of organization to manage multiple projects, is also necessary.

Additionally, they should have an eye for detail and problem-solving skills to navigate through research challenges.

Do Research Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Research Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, and often a master’s degree or higher, depending on the complexity and scope of the research.

Disciplines can vary widely depending on the area of research, from social sciences to biological or physical sciences.

What should you look for in a Research Specialist resume?

When reviewing a Research Specialist resume, look for a strong educational background in a relevant field, coupled with experience in conducting research projects.

Check for proficiency in statistical analysis software and other research tools.

Any publications or presented papers can be a strong indicator of their research capabilities.

What qualities make a good Research Specialist?

A good Research Specialist is meticulous, analytical, and has a natural curiosity that drives them to explore and understand complex concepts.

They also have excellent time management skills and can balance multiple projects simultaneously.

Good Research Specialists are also able to work well in a team, as many research projects require collaborative efforts.

What are the daily duties of a Research Specialist?

A Research Specialist’s daily duties can vary depending on the project they are working on.

Generally, their duties may include designing and implementing research studies, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and presenting findings.

They may also need to stay updated on the latest research in their field, attend relevant conferences and seminars, and perhaps publish their research findings.

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate details of what it truly means to be a research specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about conducting studies.

It’s about shaping the future of knowledge, one research project at a time.

Equipped with our versatile research specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop here?

Delve further with our job description generator . It’s your ultimate tool for crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every piece of research contributes to a larger body of knowledge.

Let’s create that future. Together.

Reasons to Become a Research Specialist (Exploring Uncharted Frontiers)

How to Become a Research Specialist (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being a Research Specialist (Perpetual Project Pressure)

Earn and Enjoy: Careers That Blend Pleasure with Paychecks

The Laid-Back Life: Careers That Keep the Pressure Off

Strangely Serious Work: The Weirdest Jobs in Existence

Safe from the Silicon Surge: Jobs AI Can’t Overtake

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

Similar Posts

Druidic Gardener Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Aviation Maintenance Technician Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Material Scientist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Automation Systems Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Actuarial Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2024]

HVAC Controls Technician Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Leave a reply cancel reply.

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

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

Educational resources and simple solutions for your research journey

Roles and Responsibilities of a Researcher

A researcher’s job is to discover or confirm, in a responsible manner, evidence-based knowledge that can benefit society or the world. However, the role of a researcher is much wider than the job description and the responsibilities of a researcher are numerous. In this article, we will take a brief look at the many responsibilities a researcher that must be fulfilled to play this role effectively.

Varied roles of a researcher

A good researcher needs to be many things to many people; here are some researcher duties and responsibilities:

• Scientist – The primary role of a researcher is to conduct research, be that through experimental studies, literature reviews, or qualitative studies. This includes designing experiments and writing reports.
• Colleague/collaborator – Researcher duties and responsibilities often include collaborations with colleagues on scientific studies as well as review others’ work and provide feedback.
• Communicator – The role of a researcher includes communicating with various audiences about their work. Journal articles need to be written, grant applications completed, and presentations made to review boards and decision makers.
• Steward of the public trust – Many studies are funded with public resources, which come with the need for accountability. The responsibility of a researcher is to fulfill obligations required by the funding source, such as creating reports and presentations.
• Advocate – Researcher’s duties and responsibilities often include promoting their work to policymakers or others who can help apply the knowledge gained. They advocate for their work, their discipline, and sometimes even for science itself.

  Responsibilities of a researcher

As with the medical profession and its Hippocratic Oath, the main overarching responsibility of a researcher is to do no harm. This is especially important in today’s environment and encompasses a wider reach than simply ensuring the safety and well-being of research subjects, although that is vitally important. It means behaving in a proper manner rather than engaging in unacceptable behavior 1 .

Obviously, the primary role of a researcher is chasing knowledge and conducting studies. However, it is also essential that any conclusions reached through the research be evidence based. The results reported must be honest, objective, and scientifically supported. Here are some examples of ethical issues that a good researcher must consider when designing and conducting studies, reporting results, and drawing conclusions 2 :

• Over generalizing results – all studies have limitations. It is the responsibility of a researcher to openly reveal their limitations to ensure their work is useful and can be built on.
• Biased methodology or conclusions – this is especially important in qualitative studies. Researchers need to ask themselves if the survey questions are fair or if their own opinions are clouding the results.
• Correlation does not imply causation – a competent researcher will ensure they do not make this common mistake.
• Not considering other related factors – a researcher’s duties and responsibilities include being open to all possibilities and comprehensively consider them.
• Not understanding the data – the types and amount of data currently available are extremely vast and easy to misinterpret. Good researchers know exactly how their data were gathered and stored and will ask questions about the data’s validity and origin.

If you’re conducting your research in a university or commercial setting, most of these aspects will probably be regulated, well-known, and overseen by an advisor, supervisor, or institutional research board.

Ethical responsibilities of a researcher

In addition to the ethical responsibilities specific to scientific studies discussed above, an effective researcher’s duties and responsibilities mean adhering to some general ethical principles, including the following 1,2 .

• Honesty – report all data, results, and procedures honestly, without fabrication or misrepresentation.
• Objectivity – recognize and avoid bias in all aspects of research and behavior.
• Integrity – keep promises, behave consistently, always be sincere in your interactions, and respect intellectual property standards.
• Openness – practice transparency in all your professional activities, share ideas, data, results, and feedback. Be open to new ideas and criticism.
• Privacy and confidentiality – a key responsibility of a researcher would be to protect the privacy of research participants, safely maintain confidential documents, data, and trade secrets.
• Ethical treatment of research participants – one of the most important researcher duties and responsibilities is to treat research participants, both human and animal, respectfully and according to current guidelines.

No research is ever done in a vacuum, even if the study is being conducted by one person alone. In fact, all meaningful scientific research is built on a foundation laid by those who came before. So for good researchers, it’s all about the work – theirs and others. Thus, a take care to be ethical in their professional behavior and attitude and treat all colleagues fairly and respectfully.

Science has been getting some bad press lately; therefore, it is the responsibility of a researcher to behave ethically and model good scientific practice to the public. Instead of giving the public reasons to distrust your intelligence and knowledge, engage with them in an open and honest way, build trust with your audience, and let them see what effective research is about.

Finally, the role of a researcher is also have a social responsibility to ensure that their work is for the benefit of society, causes no harm to the environment or to others, and helps make the world a better place.

By demonstrating a willingness to shoulder these often unwritten responsibilities of a researcher, one can earn the respect of their colleagues, decision makers, and the public, which will ensure that their work will be respected as well.

Table of Contents

• Resnik, D.B. What Is Ethics in Research & Why Is It Important? U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. 23 December, 2020. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/resources/bioethics/whatis/index.cfm .
• Purdue University. Common Pitfalls of Primary Research. Purdue Writing Lab. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/conducting_research/conducting_primary_research

R Discovery is a literature search and research reading platform that accelerates your research discovery journey by keeping you updated on the latest, most relevant scholarly content. With 250M+ research articles sourced from trusted aggregators like CrossRef, Unpaywall, PubMed, PubMed Central, Open Alex and top publishing houses like Springer Nature, JAMA, IOP, Taylor & Francis, NEJM, BMJ, Karger, SAGE, Emerald Publishing and more, R Discovery puts a world of research at your fingertips.  

Try R Discovery Prime FREE for 1 week or upgrade at just US$72 a year to access premium features that let you listen to research on the go, read in your language, collaborate with peers, auto sync with reference managers, and much more. Choose a simpler, smarter way to find and read research – Download the app and start your free 7-day trial today !  

Related Posts

What are Experimental Groups in Research

Inductive vs. Deductive Research Approach

• Job Descriptions
• Education and Training Job Descriptions

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.

Related Articles:

Research specialist job description, research analyst job description, research assistant job description, researcher interview questions, research specialist interview questions, research assistant interview questions, research analyst interview questions.

Peer Recognized

Make a name in academia

How to Write a Research Paper: the LEAP approach (+cheat sheet)

In this article I will show you how to write a research paper using the four LEAP writing steps. The LEAP academic writing approach is a step-by-step method for turning research results into a published paper .

The LEAP writing approach has been the cornerstone of the 70 + research papers that I have authored and the 3700+ citations these paper have accumulated within 9 years since the completion of my PhD. I hope the LEAP approach will help you just as much as it has helped me to make an real, tangible impact with my research.

What is the LEAP research paper writing approach?

I designed the LEAP writing approach not only for merely writing the papers. My goal with the writing system was to show young scientists how to first think about research results and then how to efficiently write each section of the research paper.

In other words, you will see how to write a research paper by first analyzing the results and then building a logical, persuasive arguments. In this way, instead of being afraid of writing research paper, you will be able to rely on the paper writing process to help you with what is the most demanding task in getting published – thinking.

The four research paper writing steps according to the LEAP approach:

I will show each of these steps in detail. And you will be able to download the LEAP cheat sheet for using with every paper you write.

But before I tell you how to efficiently write a research paper, I want to show you what is the problem with the way scientists typically write a research paper and why the LEAP approach is more efficient.

How scientists typically write a research paper (and why it isn’t efficient)

Writing a research paper can be tough, especially for a young scientist. Your reasoning needs to be persuasive and thorough enough to convince readers of your arguments. The description has to be derived from research evidence, from prior art, and from your own judgment. This is a tough feat to accomplish.

The figure below shows the sequence of the different parts of a typical research paper. Depending on the scientific journal, some sections might be merged or nonexistent, but the general outline of a research paper will remain very similar.

Here is the problem: Most people make the mistake of writing in this same sequence.

While the structure of scientific articles is designed to help the reader follow the research, it does little to help the scientist write the paper. This is because the layout of research articles starts with the broad (introduction) and narrows down to the specifics (results). See in the figure below how the research paper is structured in terms of the breath of information that each section entails.

How to write a research paper according to the LEAP approach

For a scientist, it is much easier to start writing a research paper with laying out the facts in the narrow sections (i.e. results), step back to describe them (i.e. write the discussion), and step back again to explain the broader picture in the introduction.

For example, it might feel intimidating to start writing a research paper by explaining your research’s global significance in the introduction, while it is easy to plot the figures in the results. When plotting the results, there is not much room for wiggle: the results are what they are.

Starting to write a research papers from the results is also more fun because you finally get to see and understand the complete picture of the research that you have worked on.

Most importantly, following the LEAP approach will help you first make sense of the results yourself and then clearly communicate them to the readers. That is because the sequence of writing allows you to slowly understand the meaning of the results and then develop arguments for presenting to your readers.

I have personally been able to write and submit a research article in three short days using this method.

Step 1: Lay Out the Facts

You have worked long hours on a research project that has produced results and are no doubt curious to determine what they exactly mean. There is no better way to do this than by preparing figures, graphics and tables. This is what the first LEAP step is focused on – diving into the results.

How to p repare charts and tables for a research paper

Your first task is to try out different ways of visually demonstrating the research results. In many fields, the central items of a journal paper will be charts that are based on the data generated during research. In other fields, these might be conceptual diagrams, microscopy images, schematics and a number of other types of scientific graphics which should visually communicate the research study and its results to the readers. If you have reasonably small number of data points, data tables might be useful as well.

Tips for preparing charts and tables

• Try multiple chart types but in the finished paper only use the one that best conveys the message you want to present to the readers
• Follow the eight chart design progressions for selecting and refining a data chart for your paper: https://peerrecognized.com/chart-progressions
• Prepare scientific graphics and visualizations for your paper using the scientific graphic design cheat sheet: https://peerrecognized.com/tools-for-creating-scientific-illustrations/

How to describe the results of your research

Now that you have your data charts, graphics and tables laid out in front of you – describe what you see in them. Seek to answer the question: What have I found?  Your statements should progress in a logical sequence and be backed by the visual information. Since, at this point, you are simply explaining what everyone should be able to see for themselves, you can use a declarative tone: The figure X demonstrates that…

Tips for describing the research results :

• Answer the question: “ What have I found? “
• Use declarative tone since you are simply describing observations

Step 2: Explain the results

The core aspect of your research paper is not actually the results; it is the explanation of their meaning. In the second LEAP step, you will do some heavy lifting by guiding the readers through the results using logic backed by previous scientific research.

How to define the Message of a research paper

To define the central message of your research paper, imagine how you would explain your research to a colleague in 20 seconds . If you succeed in effectively communicating your paper’s message, a reader should be able to recount your findings in a similarly concise way even a year after reading it. This clarity will increase the chances that someone uses the knowledge you generated, which in turn raises the likelihood of citations to your research paper. 

Tips for defining the paper’s central message :

• Write the paper’s core message in a single sentence or two bullet points
• Write the core message in the header of the research paper manuscript

How to write the Discussion section of a research paper

In the discussion section you have to demonstrate why your research paper is worthy of publishing. In other words, you must now answer the all-important So what? question . How well you do so will ultimately define the success of your research paper.

Here are three steps to get started with writing the discussion section:

• Write bullet points of the things that convey the central message of the research article (these may evolve into subheadings later on).
• Make a list with the arguments or observations that support each idea.
• Finally, expand on each point to make full sentences and paragraphs.

Tips for writing the discussion section:

• What is the meaning of the results?
• Was the hypothesis confirmed?
• Write bullet points that support the core message
• List logical arguments for each bullet point, group them into sections
• Instead of repeating research timeline, use a presentation sequence that best supports your logic
• Convert arguments to full paragraphs; be confident but do not overhype
• Refer to both supportive and contradicting research papers for maximum credibility

How to write the Conclusions of a research paper

Since some readers might just skim through your research paper and turn directly to the conclusions, it is a good idea to make conclusion a standalone piece. In the first few sentences of the conclusions, briefly summarize the methodology and try to avoid using abbreviations (if you do, explain what they mean).

After this introduction, summarize the findings from the discussion section. Either paragraph style or bullet-point style conclusions can be used. I prefer the bullet-point style because it clearly separates the different conclusions and provides an easy-to-digest overview for the casual browser. It also forces me to be more succinct.

Tips for writing the conclusion section :

• Summarize the key findings, starting with the most important one
• Make conclusions standalone (short summary, avoid abbreviations)
• Add an optional take-home message and suggest future research in the last paragraph

How to refine the Objective of a research paper

The objective is a short, clear statement defining the paper’s research goals. It can be included either in the final paragraph of the introduction, or as a separate subsection after the introduction. Avoid writing long paragraphs with in-depth reasoning, references, and explanation of methodology since these belong in other sections. The paper’s objective can often be written in a single crisp sentence.

Tips for writing the objective section :

• The objective should ask the question that is answered by the central message of the research paper
• The research objective should be clear long before writing a paper. At this point, you are simply refining it to make sure it is addressed in the body of the paper.

How to write the Methodology section of your research paper

When writing the methodology section, aim for a depth of explanation that will allow readers to reproduce the study . This means that if you are using a novel method, you will have to describe it thoroughly. If, on the other hand, you applied a standardized method, or used an approach from another paper, it will be enough to briefly describe it with reference to the detailed original source.

Remember to also detail the research population, mention how you ensured representative sampling, and elaborate on what statistical methods you used to analyze the results.

Tips for writing the methodology section :

• Include enough detail to allow reproducing the research
• Provide references if the methods are known
• Create a methodology flow chart to add clarity
• Describe the research population, sampling methodology, statistical methods for result analysis
• Describe what methodology, test methods, materials, and sample groups were used in the research.

Step 3: Advertize the research

Step 3 of the LEAP writing approach is designed to entice the casual browser into reading your research paper. This advertising can be done with an informative title, an intriguing abstract, as well as a thorough explanation of the underlying need for doing the research within the introduction.

How to write the Introduction of a research paper

The introduction section should leave no doubt in the mind of the reader that what you are doing is important and that this work could push scientific knowledge forward. To do this convincingly, you will need to have a good knowledge of what is state-of-the-art in your field. You also need be able to see the bigger picture in order to demonstrate the potential impacts of your research work.

Think of the introduction as a funnel, going from wide to narrow, as shown in the figure below:

• Start with a brief context to explain what do we already know,
• Follow with the motivation for the research study and explain why should we care about it,
• Explain the research gap you are going to bridge within this research paper,
• Describe the approach you will take to solve the problem.

Tips for writing the introduction section :

• Follow the Context – Motivation – Research gap – Approach funnel for writing the introduction
• Explain how others tried and how you plan to solve the research problem
• Do a thorough literature review before writing the introduction
• Start writing the introduction by using your own words, then add references from the literature

How to prepare the Abstract of a research paper

The abstract acts as your paper’s elevator pitch and is therefore best written only after the main text is finished. In this one short paragraph you must convince someone to take on the time-consuming task of reading your whole research article. So, make the paper easy to read, intriguing, and self-explanatory; avoid jargon and abbreviations.

How to structure the abstract of a research paper:

• The abstract is a single paragraph that follows this structure:
• Problem: why did we research this
• Methodology: typically starts with the words “Here we…” that signal the start of own contribution.
• Results: what we found from the research.
• Conclusions: show why are the findings important

How to compose a research paper Title

The title is the ultimate summary of a research paper. It must therefore entice someone looking for information to click on a link to it and continue reading the article. A title is also used for indexing purposes in scientific databases, so a representative and optimized title will play large role in determining if your research paper appears in search results at all.

Tips for coming up with a research paper title:

• Capture curiosity of potential readers using a clear and descriptive title
• Include broad terms that are often searched
• Add details that uniquely identify the researched subject of your research paper
• Avoid jargon and abbreviations
• Use keywords as title extension (instead of duplicating the words) to increase the chance of appearing in search results

How to prepare Highlights and Graphical Abstract

Highlights are three to five short bullet-point style statements that convey the core findings of the research paper. Notice that the focus is on the findings, not on the process of getting there.

A graphical abstract placed next to the textual abstract visually summarizes the entire research paper in a single, easy-to-follow figure. I show how to create a graphical abstract in my book Research Data Visualization and Scientific Graphics.

Tips for preparing highlights and graphical abstract:

• In highlights show core findings of the research paper (instead of what you did in the study).
• In graphical abstract show take-home message or methodology of the research paper. Learn more about creating a graphical abstract in this article.

Step 4: Prepare for submission

Sometimes it seems that nuclear fusion will stop on the star closest to us (read: the sun will stop to shine) before a submitted manuscript is published in a scientific journal. The publication process routinely takes a long time, and after submitting the manuscript you have very little control over what happens. To increase the chances of a quick publication, you must do your homework before submitting the manuscript. In the fourth LEAP step, you make sure that your research paper is published in the most appropriate journal as quickly and painlessly as possible.

How to select a scientific Journal for your research paper

The best way to find a journal for your research paper is it to review which journals you used while preparing your manuscript. This source listing should provide some assurance that your own research paper, once published, will be among similar articles and, thus, among your field’s trusted sources.

After this initial selection of hand-full of scientific journals, consider the following six parameters for selecting the most appropriate journal for your research paper (read this article to review each step in detail):

• Scope and publishing history
• Ranking and Recognition
• Publishing time
• Acceptance rate
• Content requirements
• Access and Fees

How to select a journal for your research paper:

• Use the six parameters to select the most appropriate scientific journal for your research paper
• Use the following tools for journal selection: https://peerrecognized.com/journals
• Follow the journal’s “Authors guide” formatting requirements

How to Edit you manuscript

No one can write a finished research paper on their first attempt. Before submitting, make sure to take a break from your work for a couple of days, or even weeks. Try not to think about the manuscript during this time. Once it has faded from your memory, it is time to return and edit. The pause will allow you to read the manuscript from a fresh perspective and make edits as necessary.

I have summarized the most useful research paper editing tools in this article.

Tips for editing a research paper:

• Take time away from the research paper to forget about it; then returning to edit,
• Start by editing the content: structure, headings, paragraphs, logic, figures
• Continue by editing the grammar and language; perform a thorough language check using academic writing tools
• Read the entire paper out loud and correct what sounds weird

How to write a compelling Cover Letter for your paper

Begin the cover letter by stating the paper’s title and the type of paper you are submitting (review paper, research paper, short communication). Next, concisely explain why your study was performed, what was done, and what the key findings are. State why the results are important and what impact they might have in the field. Make sure you mention how your approach and findings relate to the scope of the journal in order to show why the article would be of interest to the journal’s readers.

I wrote a separate article that explains what to include in a cover letter here. You can also download a cover letter template from the article.

Tips for writing a cover letter:

• Explain how the findings of your research relate to journal’s scope
• Tell what impact the research results will have
• Show why the research paper will interest the journal’s audience
• Add any legal statements as required in journal’s guide for authors

How to Answer the Reviewers

Reviewers will often ask for new experiments, extended discussion, additional details on the experimental setup, and so forth. In principle, your primary winning tactic will be to agree with the reviewers and follow their suggestions whenever possible. After all, you must earn their blessing in order to get your paper published.

Be sure to answer each review query and stick to the point. In the response to the reviewers document write exactly where in the paper you have made any changes. In the paper itself, highlight the changes using a different color. This way the reviewers are less likely to re-read the entire article and suggest new edits.

In cases when you don’t agree with the reviewers, it makes sense to answer more thoroughly. Reviewers are scientifically minded people and so, with enough logical and supported argument, they will eventually be willing to see things your way.

Tips for answering the reviewers:

• Agree with most review comments, but if you don’t, thoroughly explain why
• Highlight changes in the manuscript
• Do not take the comments personally and cool down before answering

The LEAP research paper writing cheat sheet

Imagine that you are back in grad school and preparing to take an exam on the topic: “How to write a research paper”. As an exemplary student, you would, most naturally, create a cheat sheet summarizing the subject… Well, I did it for you.

This one-page summary of the LEAP research paper writing technique will remind you of the key research paper writing steps. Print it out and stick it to a wall in your office so that you can review it whenever you are writing a new research paper.

Now that we have gone through the four LEAP research paper writing steps, I hope you have a good idea of how to write a research paper. It can be an enjoyable process and once you get the hang of it, the four LEAP writing steps should even help you think about and interpret the research results. This process should enable you to write a well-structured, concise, and compelling research paper.

Have fund with writing your next research paper. I hope it will turn out great!

Learn writing papers that get cited

The LEAP writing approach is a blueprint for writing research papers. But to be efficient and write papers that get cited, you need more than that.

My name is Martins Zaumanis and in my interactive course Research Paper Writing Masterclass I will show you how to  visualize  your research results,  frame a message  that convinces your readers, and write  each section  of the paper. Step-by-step.

And of course – you will learn to respond the infamous  Reviewer No.2.

Hey! My name is Martins Zaumanis and I am a materials scientist in Switzerland ( Google Scholar ). As the first person in my family with a PhD, I have first-hand experience of the challenges starting scientists face in academia. With this blog, I want to help young researchers succeed in academia. I call the blog “Peer Recognized”, because peer recognition is what lifts academic careers and pushes science forward.

Besides this blog, I have written the Peer Recognized book series and created the Peer Recognized Academy offering interactive online courses.

Related articles:

One comment

• Pingback: Research Paper Outline with Key Sentence Skeleton (+Paper Template)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

I want to join the Peer Recognized newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Copyright © 2024 Martins Zaumanis

Contacts:  [email protected]  

Privacy Policy