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Cognitive Psychology Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$40K

$99.6K

$133K

How much do cognitive psychology research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive psychology research in the United States is $99,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cognitive psychology research?

Cognitive psychology research is the scientific study of mental processes such as perception, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and language. Researchers in this field use experiments, observations, and computational models to understand how people acquire, process, and store information. Their findings help improve educational methods, inform clinical practices, and contribute to advancements in artificial intelligence. Cognitive psychology research often overlaps with neuroscience, linguistics, and computer science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in cognitive psychology research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cognitive Psychology Research, a strong background in psychology, research methodology, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree (e.g., PhD), is essential. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), experimental design tools, and literature databases is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication skills help researchers excel in designing studies, analyzing results, and disseminating findings. These skills are crucial for producing rigorous, impactful research that advances understanding of cognitive processes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in cognitive psychology research?

Professionals in cognitive psychology research often encounter challenges such as designing experiments that effectively isolate specific mental processes, recruiting diverse participant samples, and managing large datasets. Balancing the need for rigorous scientific methods with practical constraints like time and funding can also be demanding. Additionally, staying current with rapidly evolving research methods and technologies is essential for producing impactful work and advancing in the field.

What is the difference between Cognitive Psychology Research vs Cognitive Neuroscientist?

AspectCognitive Psychology ResearchCognitive Neuroscientist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Psychology or related fieldMaster's or PhD in Neuroscience, Psychology, or related field
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research labs, academic institutionsResearch labs, hospitals, academic institutions
Industry UsageAcademic research, cognitive studies, experimental psychologyBrain imaging, neural mechanisms, clinical applications
Common Search IntentUnderstanding cognitive processes, experimental designBrain function, neural correlates, neuroimaging techniques

While both roles focus on understanding mental processes, Cognitive Psychology Research primarily investigates cognitive functions through behavioral experiments, whereas Cognitive Neuroscientists explore the neural mechanisms underlying these processes using brain imaging and neurophysiological methods.

Are cognitive psychology researchers in demand?

Cognitive psychology researchers are in moderate demand, primarily in academic, healthcare, and technology sectors focusing on human-computer interaction and AI. Employment opportunities depend on advanced degrees, research experience, and skills in data analysis and experimental design, with competition for positions remaining steady.

How do I become a cognitive psychology researcher?

To become a cognitive psychology researcher, typically a candidate needs a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a master's or doctoral degree in cognitive psychology or a similar discipline. Gaining research experience through internships, assisting in studies, and developing skills in experimental design and statistical analysis are essential. Familiarity with research tools like SPSS or MATLAB and strong critical thinking are also important for success in this field.

What jobs can you do with cognitive psychology?

With a background in cognitive psychology, you can pursue roles such as cognitive researcher, user experience (UX) designer, neuropsychologist, or human factors specialist. These jobs often require skills in research methods, data analysis, and understanding of human cognition, and may involve working in academic, healthcare, technology, or corporate settings.
More about Cognitive Psychology Research jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Psychology Research jobs?

The most popular types of Cognitive Psychology Research jobs are:

Infographic showing various Cognitive Psychology Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,577 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology

University of San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$6.9K - $7.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


University Of San Diego rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology
Posting #: 5666
Position Status: Faculty, Full-time regular
Location: San Diego
Position Type: Faculty, College of Arts and Sciences
Position Title & Department:
Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology
Posting #
5666
Department Description:
The Department of Psychological Sciences is housed within the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of San Diego. Our faculty are dedicated teacher-scholars with a commitment to offering the highest quality teaching and learning environment for students as well as mentoring undergraduates in meaningful research experiences. We embrace our responsibility to create a welcoming and inclusive campus culture and seek candidates who are motivated to contribute to the life of the department, College, and University. The department offers robust mentoring of new faculty to support their success. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.
The College of Arts and Sciences is at the heart of the University of San Diego. Our philosophy is built on the enduring values of the Catholic intellectual tradition, immersing students in the concepts of free inquiry, diversity and inclusion, ethical conduct and compassionate service. The College aims to establish an academic foundation for students to thrive and gain a comprehensive education, which spans the sciences, arts and social sciences. Through our exemplary liberal arts education and rigorous scholarship, we aspire to not only educate the mind but also develop the whole person.
University Description:
The University of San Diego, an engaged and contemporary Catholic institution, was founded by the Diocese of San Diego and the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1949. Governed by an independent board of trustees since 1972, USD remains committed to a liberal arts education grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. Inspired by this centuries old tradition of Catholic higher education, the University welcomes people of all faith traditions and any, or no, religious background. The future success of USD relies on the contributions of those who seek to foster the development of engaged global citizens and an earnest confrontation of humanity's urgent challenges.
Detailed Description:
The Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of San Diego invites applicants for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Cognitive Psychology to start in Fall 2027. Our faculty are dedicated teacher-scholars with a commitment to offering the highest quality teaching and learning environment for students as well as mentoring undergraduates in meaningful research experiences. We embrace our responsibility to create a welcoming and inclusive campus culture and seek candidates who are motivated to contribute to the life of the department, College, and University. The department offers robust mentoring of new faculty to support their success. The Department of Psychological Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, with the opportunity for students to select an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health, Child/Human Development, Health and Wellness, or Social and Cultural Processes (please visit https://www.sandiego.edu/cas/psychological-sciences/ for more information).
Job Requirements:
The successful candidates will
  • Hold an advanced degree, preferably a doctorate (Ph.D.) in cognitive psychology or a related field. ABD candidates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Have demonstrated a commitment to teaching and research, mentoring undergraduates, and fostering a climate of inclusion and diversity.

The successful candidate will have expertise in cognitive psychology. The teaching load for faculty is three courses per semester and may include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, an advanced research methods capstone or seminar seminar in cognitive psychology, and upper-division courses in their area of expertise (e.g., attention, perception, decision-making, language, memory, misinformation, problem-solving, cognitive performance, technology). The successful candidate will have demonstrated potential for an independent research program with human subjects and involving undergraduate research students. We welcome candidates who are interested in teaching courses involving community engagement within diverse communities. Faculty participate in department and University service and will serve as academic advisor for undergraduate students. Candidates with postdoctoral research experience are especially encouraged to apply.
Background check: Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Degree Verification Requirement: Persons offered employment in this position will be required to provide official education transcripts for degree verification purposes.
Posting Salary:
$6,931.25-$7,917 monthly: Excellent Benefits
The University of San Diego offers a very competitive benefits package including; medical, dental, vision, a retirement contribution given to you by the University, and access to on-campus Fitness Centers. Please visit the benefits section of our website to view all of the perks and benefits that USD has to offer. USD: Human Resources: Benefits
The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including departmental budget.
Special Application Instructions:
For full consideration, applications should be completed and submitted by September 15, 2026.
Applicants are asked to submit the following materials.
  1. Letter of application or cover letter (limit 1 page)
  2. Curriculum vitae
  3. Teaching Statement including evidence of inclusive pedagogy (limit 2 pages) and a sample syllabus
  4. Research Statement highlighting past research and articulating a plan for future research (limit 2 pages) and a sample of scholarly work
  5. Contact information for three references who will be sent a link to upload letters.

For questions, please contact the department chair, Dr. Jennifer Zwolinski (jzwolinski@sandiego.edu).
If you have any technical difficulties please contact the Employment Services Team at jobs@sandiego.edu.
Additional Details:
The University of San Diego is a smoking and tobacco-free campus. For more information, visit www.sandiego.edu/smokefree.
Advertised: July 31, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:
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