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Applied Research Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

$91K - $146K/yr

Summary APPLIED RESEARCH SCIENTIST II Coghill Lab | Cancer Epidemiology | Moffitt Cancer Center The Applied Research Scientist II will join Dr. Anna Coghill's research team in the Department of ...

$80K - $120K/yr

Summary The Applied Research Scientist will work directly with Dr. Brian Gonzalez in the Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior at Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. Gonzalez conducts observational and ...

$20.91 - $22.58/hr

It's an opportunity to build skills in applied research, academic writing, and community collaboration while making research matter in the collective anti-trafficking efforts. Salary: Pay range: $20 ...

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Applied Research information

See Texas salary details

$10

$20

$34

How much do applied research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied research in Texas is $20.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is applied research?

Applied research is a type of research focused on solving practical problems and developing new technologies, products, or processes. Unlike basic research, which aims to expand fundamental knowledge, applied research is driven by real-world needs and aims to find solutions that can be directly implemented. Professionals in this field often work in industries such as healthcare, engineering, education, and technology to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Their work frequently results in innovations that improve efficiency, effectiveness, and overall quality of life.

How does an applied researcher typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project outcomes?

Applied Researchers often work closely with product managers, engineers, and data analysts to ensure that research findings are effectively integrated into product development or business strategies. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to align on project goals, sharing interim results, and iterating on experimental designs based on team feedback. Open communication and the ability to translate complex research insights into actionable recommendations are key to success in this role. This collaborative approach helps ensure that research has a tangible impact and supports organizational objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an applied researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, a solid background in scientific methodology, and typically an advanced degree in a relevant field such as engineering, computer science, or social sciences. Proficiency with statistical analysis software, programming languages (like Python or R), and data visualization tools is often required. Creative problem-solving, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are essential soft skills. These competencies enable Applied Researchers to design impactful studies, extract actionable insights from data, and drive innovations that address real-world challenges.

What is the difference between Applied Research vs Data Analyst?

AspectApplied ResearchData Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in relevant fields (e.g., science, engineering)Bachelor's or Master's in data science, statistics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, R&D departmentsBusiness, finance, healthcare, tech companies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, private research firmsCorporate sectors, consulting firms, tech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, academic careersData analysis, business insights, reporting

Applied Research involves developing new knowledge or solutions through scientific methods, often in academic or research settings. Data Analysts focus on interpreting existing data to inform business decisions, typically within corporate environments. While both roles require analytical skills, Applied Research emphasizes experimental design and innovation, whereas Data Analysts concentrate on data interpretation and reporting.

What does an applied researcher do?

An applied researcher conducts practical investigations to solve real-world problems by collecting and analyzing data, often using statistical tools and methodologies. They work across industries such as healthcare, technology, or social sciences, translating research findings into actionable solutions. Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data analysis software are essential for this role.

What is an applied research career?

An applied research career involves conducting practical investigations to solve real-world problems, often in fields like healthcare, engineering, or social sciences. Professionals in this field use scientific methods, data analysis, and technical tools to develop solutions, often working in research institutions, corporations, or government agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Applied Research jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Applied Research jobs in Texas are:

Infographic showing various Applied Research job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,063 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Project Manager - Applied Research

Austin, TX • On-site


The University of Texas at Austin
Education • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$69K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Posting Title:
Project Manager - Applied Research
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Hiring Department:
Applied Research Laboratories
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Position Open To:
All Applicants
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Weekly Scheduled Hours:
40
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FLSA Status:
Exempt from FLSA
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Earliest Start Date:
Immediately
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Position Duration:
Expected to Continue
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Location:
PICKLE RESEARCH CAMPUS
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Job Details:
General Notes
An agency designated by the federal government handles the investigation as to the requirement for eligibility for access to classified information. Factors considered during this investigation include but are not limited to allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations, drug involvement, the likelihood of continuation of such conduct, etc.
Please mark "yes" on the application question that asks if additional materials are required. Failure to attach all additional materials listed below may result in a delay in application processing.
Visit our website (www.arlut.utexas.edu) for additional information about Applied Research Laboratories.
Purpose
Perform project management duties in support of multiple Government sponsored R&D activities which include hardware, software, and algorithm design, development, test, demonstration, and deployment. Contribute programmatic and technical guidance to agile development teams, Principle Investigators, Product Owners, and System Owners for the Space and Geophysics Laboratory (SGL).
Responsibilities
  • Interface with Government sponsors and Principle Investigators on a regular basis to ensure sponsor satisfaction of project/program technical and business execution.
  • Facilitate the investigation of new technical concepts and applications, and prepare and submit budget and technical proposals for new Government-sponsored R&D.
  • Establish and maintain project goals and priorities in accordance with Principle Investigator's guidance and intent to ensure the successful accomplishment of sponsor expectations and mission requirements.
  • Provide staff supervision and tasking assignments, identify staff training requirements and opportunities, and facilitate the interview and hiring process.
  • Continuously manage project budget, schedule, and resources to ensure the successful and timely execution of Government-sponsored R&D.
  • Other related functions as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, math, physics, or related fields.
  • Five or more years project management experience with Government sponsored technical/scientific R&D or system acquisitions.
  • Project Management Professional, Defense Acquisition University Project Management, or DoD branch specific project management or system acquisition certification.
  • Demonstrated ability and experience with Microsoft Office suite and Microsoft Project.

Applicant must have a dynamic skill set, willing to work with new technologies, be highly organized and capable of planning and coordinating multiple tasks and managing their time. The position requires attention to detail, effective problem solving skills and excellent judgment. The position requires the applicant to work independently with sensitive and confidential information, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without daily supervision and effectively communicate with all groups of clients. The position requires the applicant to routinely work under pressure, accept supervision, maintain regular and punctual attendance.
US citizen. Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to the project requirements of the position.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in engineering, computer science, math, physics, or related fields.
  • Seven or more years project management experience with Government sponsored technical/scientific R&D or system acquisitions.
  • Project Management Professional, Defense Acquisition University Project Management, or DoD branch specific project management or system acquisition certification.
  • Understanding of RF signal propagation theory or experience with GPS/GNSS.
  • Demonstrated ability and experience with Microsoft Office suite, Microsoft Project, and JIRA software.
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0.
General Notes
An agency designated by the federal government handles the investigation as to the requirement for eligibility for access to classified information. Factors considered during this investigation include but are not limited to allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations, drug involvement, the likelihood of continuation of such conduct, etc.
Please mark "yes" on the application question that asks if additional materials are required. Failure to attach all additional materials listed below may result in a delay in application processing.
Visit our website (www.arlut.utexas.edu) for additional information about Applied Research Laboratories.
Salary Range
$100,000-$140,000+/negotiable depending on qualifications
Working Conditions
  • Standard office conditions
  • Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
  • Use of manual dexterity
  • Some weekend, evening and holiday work
  • Possible interstate/intrastate travel

Required Materials
  • Resume/CV
  • 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
  • Letter of interest
  • Unofficial college transcripts

Important for applicants who are NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume the first time you apply, then you will be provided an option to upload a new Resume for subsequent applications. Any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) will be uploaded in the Application Questions section; you will be able to multi-select additional files. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.
Important for Current university employees and contingent workers: As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find UT Jobs. If you are a current University employee, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile before you apply. This information will be pulled in to your application. The application is one page and you will be prompted to upload your resume. In addition, you must respond to the application questions presented to upload any additional Required Materials (letter of interest, references, etc.) that were noted above.
Employment Eligibility:
Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.
Retirement Plan Eligibility:
The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length. This position has the option to elect the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) instead of TRS, subject to the position being 40 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.
Background Checks:
A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.
Pay Transparency:
The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
Employment Eligibility Verification:
If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.
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E-Verify:
The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:
  • E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]

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Compliance:
Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.
The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.


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