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Academic Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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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Academic Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do academic research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Academic Research Scientist, and why are they important?

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 salary of a research scientist?

The salary of an academic research scientist typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with research grants and institutional benefits.

Do I need a PhD to be a research scientist?

A research scientist role often requires a PhD, especially in academic or specialized research settings, but some positions may accept a master's degree or equivalent experience. The level of education depends on the industry, employer, and specific research area, with advanced degrees typically providing more opportunities and responsibilities.

What is the highest paid research scientist?

The highest paid research scientists are often those working in specialized fields such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or data science, with senior roles like principal investigators or directors earning salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, education, industry, and location, with some roles in private industry offering higher compensation than academic positions.

What are Academic Research Scientists?

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.

Do research scientists get paid well?

Research scientists, including academic research scientists, typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. In general, they earn more than many entry-level positions, with salaries increasing for those with advanced degrees and specialized skills such as data analysis or laboratory techniques.
More about Academic Research Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Academic Research Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Academic Research Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Academic Research Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Academic Research Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Academic Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.
Assistant Academic Research Scientist- School of Medicine- Electron Microscopy Lab

Assistant Academic Research Scientist- School of Medicine- Electron Microscopy Lab

Emory University

Atlanta, GA

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


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7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

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Job description

Discover Your Career at Emory University

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.

Description

We seek a highly motivated individual with expertise in Electron Microscopy to join the Robert P. Apkarian Integrated Electron Microscopy Core (IEMC) at Emory University as an Assistant Academic Research Scientist. The IEMC houses an array of electron microscopes and ancillary instrumentation at two sites on Emory's main campus. The Assistant Academic Research Scientist will assist in the daily operation of the IEMC, including maintenance and operation of electron microscopes and ancillary equipment, as well as assistance on user projects. As part of the Georgia Research Alliance and the Georgia Core Facilities Partnership, the IEMC provides access to state-of-the-art electron microscopy resources to institutions including Augusta University, Clark Atlanta University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, Mercer University, Morehouse School of Medicine, and University of Georgia. 

This position is specifically focused on biological electron microscopy, with an emphasis on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of tissues and cultured cells. The successful candidate will have hands-on experience in biological sample preparation, including resin embedding, ultramicrotomy, and TEM imaging.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Under minimal supervision, the Assistant Academic Research Scientist performs a wide range of highly technical and complex tasks necessary to advance basic and/or translational research programs.
  • Responsible for working with experimental platforms specific to the hiring Program.
  • Duties will include but are not limited to experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation and communication of results of basic and/or translational research.
  • Will be required to review literature and apply advanced knowledge, skills, and input necessary for protocol development.
  • May assist in grant and other funding applications, as necessary and appropriate.
  • With the approval of the responsible Emory faculty director, the Assistant Academic Research Scientist may serve as the principal investigator on funded (grant) proposals.
  • Performs other responsibilities as required.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • This position will report to the Core Director and collaborate in routine activities carried out by the IEMC team.
  • the IEMC enables investigators across Emory and partner institutions to gain critical insights into nanoscale structures relevant to human health.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

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

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Masters degree in life sciences, physics, engineering, or related fields, or equivalent experience in these disciplines.
  • Experience in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting electron microscopes, and associated equipment (chillers, pumps, compressors, etc.) and equipment for sample preparation.
  • Experience in interacting with service engineers and helping maintain microscopy infrastructure.
  • Excellent technical, communication, and teaching skills.
  • Experience with immunocytochemistry, volume EM approaches, and other structural biology techniques

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.

Additional Details

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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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