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Adjunct Research Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... adjunct research professor position. Job Duties to Include: The primary responsibilities of the position will be assisting the director, Prof. Doug Werner, to manage the daily operation of CEDE and ...

... Title Adjunct Professor Appointment Type Adjunct Faculty Position Number 20061089 Vacancy ID ... A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the ...

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Adjunct Research Professor information

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$28

$67

$78

How much do adjunct research professor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for adjunct research professor in the United States is $67.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66.83 and $69.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Adjunct Research Professor?

An Adjunct Research Professor is a part-time academic professional who primarily focuses on conducting research rather than teaching. They are typically hired on a contract basis and may collaborate with other faculty, mentor students, or lead specific research projects within a university or research institution. Unlike full-time professors, adjunct research professors usually do not have tenure and may work at multiple institutions or maintain careers outside academia. Their expertise is often sought to advance specialized research or bring industry experience into academic settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Adjunct Research Professors, and how can they effectively balance research responsibilities with limited institutional support?

Adjunct Research Professors often navigate challenges such as limited access to research funding, reduced administrative support, and the need to balance multiple commitments, sometimes across different institutions. To manage these obstacles, they frequently cultivate strong collaborations with full-time faculty, actively seek external grants, and leverage partnerships with industry or other universities. Building a robust professional network and maintaining clear communication with department leadership can also help maximize available resources and support. Successfully balancing these aspects allows adjuncts to continue meaningful research while advancing their academic careers.

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

To thrive as an Adjunct Research Professor, you typically need an advanced degree (usually a PhD) in your field, a record of scholarly research, and experience in teaching or mentoring. Familiarity with academic databases, research software (such as SPSS or MATLAB), and grant application systems is often required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and time management skills help you balance research, teaching, and institutional responsibilities. These competencies are crucial for advancing scholarly work, securing funding, and contributing effectively to academic communities.

What is the difference between Adjunct Research Professor vs Research Scientist?

AspectAdjunct Research ProfessorResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a doctoral degree or equivalent experienceUsually requires a doctoral degree or master's with research experience
Work EnvironmentPart-time, often affiliated with academic institutionsFull-time or project-based, in research labs or industry settings
Employer & IndustryUniversities, colleges, academic research centersResearch institutions, industry R&D departments
Common Search IntentAcademic research roles, adjunct faculty positionsIndustry research roles, scientific development

The main difference is that an Adjunct Research Professor typically works part-time within academic institutions focusing on research and teaching, while a Research Scientist often works full-time in industry or research labs dedicated to scientific development. Both roles require advanced degrees and research experience but differ mainly in employment setting and commitment level.

More about Adjunct Research Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for Adjunct Research Professor jobs? Cities with the most Adjunct Research Professor job openings:

Adjunct Research Professor

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 22 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

173rd of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Penn State Center of Excellence in Directed Energy (CEDE: mri.psu.edu/cede) in conjunction with the Computational Electromagnetics and Antennas Research Lab (CEARL: (https://sites.google.com/psu.edu/cearl/) in the Department of Electrical Engineering, is seeking a highly qualified individual for an exempt part time adjunct research professor position.
Job Duties to Include:
The primary responsibilities of the position will be assisting the director, Prof. Doug Werner, to manage the daily operation of CEDE and CEARL as well as to collaborate with other faculty, researchers, and the students. The successful candidate is expected to interact with government and/or industry program sponsors, participate in funded research projects, assist in the writing of proposals and prepare technical reports as well as other duties as directed.
Requirements:
The Researcher should possess a postgraduate degree (Ph.D. preferred) in Engineering (preferably Electrical Engineering). The successful candidate must also have United States Citizenship.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Industrial experience.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Comfortable presenting information to team members and group leaders.
  • Capable of accomplishing efforts in a timely manner with high quality and with a positive attitude.

Required Application Materials:
  • Cover letter
  • Academic CV
  • Three references

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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