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Academic Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scaled Cognition

Research Scientist

Boston, NY · On-site

As a Research Scientist at Scaled Cognition you will: * Develop and implement novel, next ... Stay up-to-date with the latest academic research and react quickly to new discoveries. You might ...

Scaled Cognition

Research Scientist

Mountain View, CA · Remote

As a Research Scientist at Scaled Cognition you will: * Develop and implement novel, next ... Stay up-to-date with the latest academic research and react quickly to new discoveries. You might ...

Scaled Cognition

Research Scientist

New York, NY · Remote

As a Research Scientist at Scaled Cognition you will: * Develop and implement novel, next ... Stay up-to-date with the latest academic research and react quickly to new discoveries. You might ...

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How much do academic research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an academic research scientist?

Academic Research Scientists are professionals who conduct scientific studies and experiments in university or research institution settings. Their work often includes designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, publishing results in scientific journals, and collaborating with other researchers. They may also mentor students, apply for research grants, and present findings at conferences. The goal of an Academic Research Scientist is to advance knowledge in their field and contribute to scientific understanding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an academic research scientist?

To thrive as an Academic Research Scientist, you need a strong background in scientific methodology, data analysis, and subject-specific expertise, often demonstrated by a PhD or equivalent advanced degree. Proficiency in statistical software, laboratory equipment, and research management systems is typically expected. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication are vital soft skills for publishing findings and collaborating with peers. These skills are essential for producing rigorous research, advancing scientific knowledge, and securing funding in a competitive academic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by academic research scientists when working on collaborative projects?

Academic research scientists often work on multidisciplinary teams, which can present challenges such as coordinating schedules, aligning research goals, and managing communication across different areas of expertise. Balancing individual research interests with the broader objectives of a collaborative project requires strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Additionally, navigating differing expectations regarding authorship and credit is a frequent challenge, making transparency and clear agreements essential for successful teamwork.

What is the difference between Academic Research Scientist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAcademic Research ScientistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in a relevant fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or research institutionsLaboratories within hospitals, industry, or academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, private research firmsHospitals, biotech companies, manufacturing labs

Academic Research Scientists typically hold advanced degrees and lead research projects, focusing on hypothesis development and data analysis. Laboratory Technicians usually have a technical diploma or bachelor's degree, supporting experiments and maintaining lab equipment. Both roles are essential in research settings but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work scope.

Are research scientists paid well?

Research scientists' salaries vary depending on the industry, experience, and location, but they generally earn competitive wages compared to other scientific roles. In academia, salaries tend to be lower than in private industry, where specialized skills and advanced degrees can lead to higher compensation. Overall, research scientists with advanced degrees and specialized expertise often have strong earning potential.

Do I need a PhD to be an academic research scientist?

While many academic research scientists hold a PhD, it is not always required; some positions may accept a master's degree or equivalent experience, especially in applied or industry-focused roles. However, a PhD is often preferred for research-intensive positions and for advancing in academia or specialized research fields.
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Academic Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Academic Research Scientist | School of Medicine - Pediatrics, Gastroenterology

Emory University

Atlanta, GA

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

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7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 217 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.


The Academic Research Scientist functions as a highly skilled contributor/researcher and has significant authorship on publications and advanced knowledge and expertise of laboratory and experimental platforms necessary to advance basic and/or translational research programs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Staff Scientists will have leadership responsibilities, and will oversee quality and training of other team members.
  • Duties include designing, developing and conducting research experiments.
  • Will have expert knowledge and skills specific to the related program and advanced knowledge of methods of analyzing data from experimental platforms.
  • May assist in grant and other funding applications as necessary and appropriate, or with approval of the responsible faculty director, may have their own research projects and/or have full responsibilities for specific areas of a program.
  • With the approval of the responsible Emory faculty director, the Academic Research Scientist may serve as the principal investigator on funded (grant) proposals.
  • Performs other responsibilities as required.

ADDITIONAL JOB DETAILS:

  • The successful candidate will design and conduct research using cell and mouse models of hepatic and kidney disease.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • PhD and two years of professional level experience in a technical or research lab OR master's degree and four years of professional level experience in a technical or research lab OR bachelor's degree and six years of professional level experience in a technical or research lab.
  • Laboratory experience should be based on area of assignment.
  • Internship experience or experience prior to attaining the qualifying degree is not considered eligible work experience for this job classification.

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.


Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.

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