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Autism Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do autism research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for autism 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 does an autism research scientist do?

Autism Research Scientists study the causes, development, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). They conduct experiments, analyze data, and collaborate with clinicians and educators to better understand how autism affects individuals. Their goal is to improve diagnostic methods, interventions, and support systems for people with autism and their families. These scientists often publish their findings in academic journals and present at conferences to advance the field.

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

To thrive as an Autism Research Scientist, you need a strong background in neuroscience, psychology, or related fields, typically supported by a Ph.D. and experience with research methodologies. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), neuroimaging tools, and IRB protocols is essential. Excellent analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure rigorous, ethical research and meaningful contributions to understanding and supporting individuals with autism.

What are some common challenges faced by autism research scientists when conducting clinical studies?

Autism Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as recruiting a diverse and representative participant pool, ensuring ethical standards are met when working with vulnerable populations, and managing variability in behavioral and biological data. Collaboration with clinicians, families, and multidisciplinary teams is essential to address these issues. Additionally, staying current with emerging technologies and methodologies is crucial for producing impactful research and advancing the field.

What is the difference between Autism Research Scientist vs Clinical Psychologist?

AspectAutism Research ScientistClinical Psychologist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in psychology, neuroscience, or related fieldDoctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, licensed to practice
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, research institutionsClinics, hospitals, private practices
Industry UsagePrimarily in research and academiaPrimarily in clinical diagnosis and therapy
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for research roles in autismFocuses on diagnosis and treatment of autism

While both roles involve understanding autism, an Autism Research Scientist focuses on studying the condition through research, whereas a Clinical Psychologist provides diagnosis and therapy to individuals with autism. The research scientist typically works in labs and academic settings, while clinical psychologists work directly with patients in clinical environments.

What are popular job titles related to Autism Research Scientist jobs?

For Autism Research Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Autism Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Pediatric Scientist, Autism Research

Wilmington, DE • On-site

Nemours Children's Health
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Nemours Children's Healthexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Nemours Children's Health rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Swank Autism Center at Nemours Children's Health is seeking a Licensed or Licensed Eligible Psychologist or other Health Professional to join our team as a Research Scientist in Wilmington, Delaware.  The Swank Autism Center provides comprehensive clinical services for children up to age 21 years and conducts research and community-based outreach and training. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop a targeted research program in autism. This could include (but is not exclusive to) current areas of study: healthcare inequities, neuro-affirming care, supporting families who are newly diagnosed or awaiting evaluation, and other areas. 
  • Build and support research collaborations with other Nemours faculty and/or our external partners.
  • Provide clinical services as a minor part of this role, which might include autism diagnostic services, individual/group therapy, and/or supervising trainees, e.g., externs, residents, and/or fellows who rotate through the center. 

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary 
  • Health, life, dental & vision benefits for Associates and their dependents
  • A comprehensive wellness program
  • CME days and dollars 
  • 403(b) with employer match & a 457(b) plan
  • Licensure and dues allowance after hire 
  • Tuition reimbursement & tuition discount programs with various Universities for Associates and their dependents
  • Adoption assistance and 6 weeks of Paternity leave

Qualifications:

  • Candidates must hold a PhD in a health-related discipline
  • Must be licensed or license-eligible
  • Demonstrate evidence of collaborative academic productivity and either success in obtaining funding for research or a strong potential to obtain funding for research required
  • Demonstrated training and experience conducting research in clinical and/or academic settings with autistic/neurodivergent children, adolescents, and/or young adults, and their families required

The Research Scientist will join a multidisciplinary team that includes faculty from psychology, developmental medicine, psychiatry, neurology, social work, nursing, and applied behavior analysis, as well as colleagues who are autistic and/or caregivers. The Research Scientist will also have a dual appointment in the Center for Healthcare Delivery Science (CHDS) - Delaware Valley (www.nemours.org/chds). The CHDS includes 20+ investigators across the enterprise that study ways to improve health care, health equity, and health and wellness beyond medicine for youth and their families. The Swank Autism Center has a dedicated Clinical Research Coordinator and CHDS has additional research coordination and data analysis resources. Teaching, training, and mentoring are core values in our division, and these efforts are also supported and encouraged. The Swank Autism Center is strongly affiliated with Delaware's Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) program. 

If you're looking for a position that will allow you to enjoy a work-life balance, have an opportunity for professional growth, and focus on pediatric care, this is the opportunity for you.

#LI-JC1

Nemours Children's Health is an internationally recognized pediatric health system serving more than 1.7 million patient encounters each year. We deliver care across six states through two freestanding children's hospitals - Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware and Nemours Children's Hospital, Florida - along with a network of more than 80 primary, urgent, and specialty care practices and more than 40 hospital partnerships.
Backed by the Nemours Foundation and Alfred I. duPont Trust, our $1.7B nonprofit system is dedicated to improving children's health through clinical care, research, education, advocacy, and prevention. Our Whole Child Health approach focuses equally on prevention and treatment, partnering with communities to help every child thrive.
Inclusion and belonging guide our strategy and growth. We are committed to culturally relevant care, reducing health disparities, and fostering an environment where every associate, patient, and family feels supported and valued.
Learn more at Nemours.org.
At Nemours Children's, our physicians collaborate across specialties, practices, and hospital settings to deliver care that is among the safest, most compassionate, and most advanced in pediatric medicine. As part of a fully integrated health system with strong academic partnerships, we are focused on achieving exceptional outcomes across every specialty.
We continuously measure and improve outcomes to ensure consistent, top-tier care for children and families. Our culture supports professional growth, collaboration, and innovation while advancing our mission to create the healthiest generations of children.
We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to creating a strong sense of belonging for patients, families, and team members alike. Nemours is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates of all backgrounds.
Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware
Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware is a 220-bed, internationally recognized pediatric hospital and the only Level I pediatric trauma center and Level IV NICU in the state.
In the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Children's Hospitals rankings, Nemours Children's, Delaware is a Top 10 children's hospital in the Mid-Atlantic region with eight nationally ranked specialties, including Top 10 in orthopedics and Top 15 in diabetes and endocrinology.
A Level I Children's Surgery Center and three-time Magnet-recognized organization, Nemours Children's continues a $130 million campus expansion enhancing cardiology, oncology, maternal fetal medicine, and surgical services.
Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington offers an ideal blend of historic charm, economic vitality, and East Coast accessibility. Located along the scenic Brandywine River, the city features vibrant cultural districts, acclaimed restaurants, museums, performing arts venues, and miles of parks and trails.
Residents enjoy convenient access to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., along with Amtrak service throughout the Northeast Corridor. Wilmington's strong financial, health care, and life sciences sectors, combined with excellent schools and diverse neighborhoods, make it an attractive place for professionals and families seeking both opportunity and quality of life.

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About Nemours

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As one of the nation's leading pediatric health care systems, Nemours is committed to providing all children with their best chance to grow up healthy. We offer integrated, family-centered care to more than 300,000 children each year in our pediatric hospitals, specialty clinics, primary care practices, and school-based health centers in Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Nemours strives to ensure a healthier tomorrow for all children - even those who may never enter our doors - through our world-changing research, education and advocacy efforts.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Jacksonville, FL, US

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