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Background Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Penn State University

Researcher

Hershey, PA · On-site

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES This position requires the following clearances in addition to ... research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn ...

The University of Oklahoma

Researcher

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$55K/yr

Researcher Job no: 493624 Work type: Professional Location: Oklahoma City Categories: Technology ... None Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check: Yes Advertised: 29 Jul 2026 Central Daylight Time ...

The Pennsylvania State University

A background in cell and molecular biology or biochemistry, together with strong technical ... research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn ...

REJIS

Research Intern

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$20/hr

... background research on programs, award history, and agency goals and objectives Other duties as assigned Currently pursuing or recently completed a Master's degree (or higher) in Criminology ...

Penn State University

Researcher

University Park, PA · On-site

A background in cell and molecular biology or biochemistry, together with strong technical ... research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn ...

REJIS Commission

Research Intern

Saint Louis, MO

$20/hr

Under the direction of senior staff, support the development of new business by conducting background research on programs, award history, and agency goals and objectives * Other duties as assigned ...

Rejis

Research Intern

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Under the direction of senior staff, support the development of new business by conducting background research on programs, award history, and agency goals and objectives * Other duties as assigned ...

Microsoft

Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

$102K - $202K/yr

Microsoft Cloud Background Check: - This position will be required to pass the Microsoft background ... research, and/or anomaly detection OR Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer ...

Microsoft Corporation

Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

$102K - $202K/yr

Microsoft Cloud Background Check: * This position will be required to pass the Microsoft background ... research, and/or anomaly detection OR Bachelor's Degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer ...

Dimensional Fund Advisors, L.P.

Researcher

Austin, TX · On-site

Ideal candidates will have extensive experience doing empirical research with large datasets, a strong background in econometrics and statistics, and strong programming skills in one or more ...

Ceribell, Inc

Clinical Researcher

Sunnyvale, CA

Medical Research Background: A strong understanding of the medical research process, including study design, data collection, and scientific publication. Experience managing clinical research ...

Dimensional Fund Advisors

Researcher

Austin, TX · On-site

Ideal candidates will have extensive experience doing empirical research with large datasets, a strong background in econometrics and statistics, and strong programming skills in one or more ...

Microsoft

Principal Security Researcher

Redmond, WA · On-site

Microsoft Cloud Background Check: - This position will be required to pass the Microsoft background ... Proficiency developing security research tooling or automation in one or more programming languages.

NEC Labs

MA - Researcher

San Jose, CA · On-site

The Media Analytics team at NEC Labs America is seeking outstanding researchers with a background in computer vision. Candidates must possess an exceptional track record of original research and ...

Clera

Researcher, Neurotechnology

Boston, MA · Remote

$80K - $120K/yr

About the Role This is a hands-on research role at an early-stage neurotechnology startup working ... Background in neuroscience, biology, psychology, engineering, medicine, or a related life sciences ...

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Background Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do background researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for background researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a background researcher do?

A Background Researcher is responsible for gathering, verifying, and analyzing information about individuals, organizations, or topics to support decision-making, due diligence, or investigative processes. Their work often involves checking public records, media reports, social media, and other databases to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided. Background Researchers are commonly employed in industries such as journalism, law, corporate hiring, and security services, where accurate background information is crucial. They must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to ethical research practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background researcher?

To thrive as a Background Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in research or investigative fields, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with online databases, public records systems, and research management tools is typically required. Excellent written communication, discretion, and persistence help you stand out in gathering and reporting sensitive information. These skills ensure thorough, accurate, and ethical background checks, which are crucial for informed decision-making in hiring, security, or due diligence processes.

How does a background researcher typically collaborate with other departments during the research process?

Background Researchers frequently work closely with departments such as editorial, legal, and production. They gather, verify, and organize information based on requests from these teams to ensure accuracy and compliance in content or reporting. Regular communication and clear documentation are crucial, as researchers must provide timely updates and adapt to shifting project priorities. This collaborative dynamic helps maintain high standards of credibility and efficiency in the final output.

What is the difference between Background Researcher vs Data Analyst?

AspectBackground ResearcherData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences, research methods, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in statistics, mathematics, or data science
Work EnvironmentResearch firms, government agencies, academic institutionsCorporate, finance, healthcare, or tech industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for gathering background info, verifying facts, and supporting investigationsUsed for interpreting data, creating reports, and informing business decisions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, job requirements, and career pathsComparing data analysis skills, tools, and job functions

While both roles involve working with information, a Background Researcher focuses on collecting and verifying background information for investigations or research projects. In contrast, a Data Analyst interprets data sets to generate insights and support decision-making. Both roles require analytical skills and research abilities but serve different purposes within organizations.

More about Background Researcher jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Background Researcher jobs?

The most popular types of Background Researcher jobs are:

What states have the most Background Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Background Researcher jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Background Researcher jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Background Researcher jobs are:

Background Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Researcher

Penn State University

Hershey, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 621 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.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
A researcher position is immediately available in the lab of Dr. Reyad Elbarbary at the Penn State College of Medicine.
Dr. Elbarbary's lab combines basic RNA biology and translational musculoskeletal research (relevant publications include Khajuria el al. Bone 2020; Khajuria el al. Bone Research 2023; Khajuria el al. JBMR 2023).
The lab's primary focus is to identify roles of non-coding RNAs as well as RNA processing mechanisms in bone regeneration, and to define molecular mechanisms that underpin impaired bone repair in different disease models including obesity/type 2 diabetes.
Research in Dr. Elbarbary's lab utilizes cell culture, mouse models, and human clinical samples. The lab employs state-of-the-art techniques in the fields of RNA biology and bone biology.
We are seeking creative, career-driven candidates to join our group. Candidates must hold a PhD with at least 5-year experience as a postdoc in the field of bone biology or RNA biology. A Strong publication record and significant experimental training in molecular biology and biochemistry are required. Experience in genetic mouse models, murine fracture models, and obesity or diabetes murine models is a must. Experience in immunology or bioinformatics is a plus.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
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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