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Applied Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UL Solutions

Director Applied R&D

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$183K - $244K/yr

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing UL Solutions' applied research capability. This role leads multidisciplinary teams working across ...

UL Solutions

Director Applied R&D

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$183K - $244K/yr

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing UL Solutions' applied research capability. This role leads multidisciplinary teams working across ...

Centific

PhD Applied Research Intern

This is an applied research role for doctoral candidates who want to move beyond the lab and deploy their expertise directly into a live AI operations program. You will be embedded in a production ...

UL Solutions

Director Applied R&D

Northbrook, IL · Hybrid

$183K - $244K/yr

The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing UL Solutions' applied research capability. This role leads multidisciplinary teams working across ...

The Pennsylvania State University

With a primary focus on supporting Penn State's Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) and newly created National Security Institute (NSI) , the person in this role will also cover national security ...

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How much do applied research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of applied research, senior roles such as research directors, chief scientists, or industry consultants in specialized areas can earn $400,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation is often associated with roles in pharmaceuticals, technology, or government agencies that require advanced skills and significant project management.

What is an applied research career?

An applied research career involves conducting practical investigations to solve real-world problems, often within industries like healthcare, technology, or engineering. 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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In applied research roles, high-paying positions can sometimes reach $10,000 per month, especially for experienced professionals with specialized skills in data analysis, programming, or scientific methods. These roles often require strong technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and may involve working in industries like technology, pharmaceuticals, or finance, but typically do not require a formal degree if the candidate has relevant experience and a strong portfolio.

What does an applied researcher do?

An applied researcher conducts practical investigations to solve real-world problems by collecting and analyzing data, often using scientific methods. They develop solutions, evaluate their effectiveness, and may use tools like statistical software or programming languages, working in industries such as healthcare, technology, or social sciences.

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.

More about Applied Research jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Applied Research jobs? The most popular types of Applied Research jobs are:
What states have the most Applied Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Applied Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Applied Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Applied Research jobs are:
Applied Research jobs near you

Director Applied R&D

UL Solutions

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$183K - $244K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

UL Solutions rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description


The Director of R&D is a senior technical and business leader responsible for shaping and growing UL Solutions' applied research capability. This role leads multidisciplinary teams working across Fire Science, Batteries and Energy Storage, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Systems.
This leader is both a deeply accomplished engineer and a practical business builder. They translate technical excellence into customer value and sustainable revenue. The role is charged with expanding the influence of R&D on company strategy, strengthening engagement with internal and external customers, and driving growth through contract R&D programs and new, high-value service development. The position sits at the intersection of technical rigor, market awareness, and business execution.
Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Innovation
  • Set and drive technical direction across multiple engineering and science disciplines.
  • Lead development of innovative, practical solutions to complex customer and industry problems.
  • Serve as a recognized technical authority and trusted advisor within UL Solutions and with customers, partners, and regulators.
  • Promote a culture of creativity, speed, disciplined experimentation, and strong engineering fundamentals.

Strategy & Market Insight
  • Translate market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies into clear R&D priorities.
  • Influence company direction by connecting technical capability to long-term growth opportunities.
  • Identify white-space opportunities where UL Solutions can lead through new methods, tools, or services.
  • Business Development & Revenue Growth
  • Generate revenue through contract R&D programs with strategic customers.
  • Lead the creation and launch of differentiated, high-value technical services.
  • Partner closely with sales, marketing, and product teams to shape compelling customer value propositions.
  • Support strategic pursuits by providing technical leadership, credibility, and solution framing.

Customer & Ecosystem Engagement
  • Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, regulators, research institutions, and industry partners.
  • Increase customer engagement with R&D through collaborative programs, joint development work, and advisory roles.
  • Represent UL Solutions in industry forums, technical committees, and standards organizations as appropriate.

Team Leadership & Talent Development
  • Lead and develop high-performing teams of engineers, scientists, and technical specialists across multiple disciplines.
  • Create an environment that values technical rigor, curiosity, accountability, and continuous learning.
  • Actively mentor and coach technical staff, from early-career engineers to senior subject-matter experts.
  • Identify and develop future technical leaders, including succession planning for critical roles.
  • Align individual development plans with business needs and long-term organizational goals.

Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in engineering or physical sciences (PhD preferred; MS with strong applied experience acceptable).
  • Deep technical expertise in at least one core discipline, with credibility across multiple engineering domains.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing engineers and scientists in applied R&D or advanced engineering environments.
  • Proven track record of delivering complex R&D programs with measurable customer, technical, or commercial impact.
  • Experience working with industry, regulators, and standards bodies is strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated success in business development, customer engagement, or commercialization of technical work.
  • Innovative problem solver who focuses on outcomes and practical solutions.
  • Technically accomplished engineer with sound judgment and intellectual curiosity.
  • Thought leader and outstanding communicator, effective with executives, customers, and technical peers.
  • Strategic thinker who understands markets, customers, and competitive dynamics.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to convert technical capability into revenue-generating offerings.

Total Rewards: We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career . The estimated salary range for this position is $183,000 to $244,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 30% of the base salary and a 30% RSU grant. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (20 days), holidays including 3 floating holidays (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).
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About Us
A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

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