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Disability Studies Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Pittsburgh

Research Nurse (SOMMA)

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$67K - $84K/yr

... disability and mobility loss. Projects will include observational studies and clinical trials, and will involve all aspects of research including recruitment, screening, clinical measures, safety ...

UAB

MANAGER-CLINICAL RESEARCH ADMINISTRATION

Tampa, FL · On-site

$77K - $126K/yr

To manage and maintain the study s compliance with institutional requirements. * To manage division ... disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any ...

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Disability Studies Research information

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$99.8K

$135.5K

How much do disability studies research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for disability studies research in the United States is $99,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is disability studies research?

Disability Studies Research is an interdisciplinary academic field that explores the social, cultural, historical, and political aspects of disability. Instead of focusing solely on medical or biological perspectives, it examines how society defines, treats, and accommodates people with disabilities. Researchers in this field analyze disability through the lens of human rights, social justice, and inclusion, aiming to challenge stereotypes and promote accessibility. The goal is to better understand the experiences of disabled people and to advocate for systemic change.

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

To thrive as a Disability Studies Researcher, you need a solid background in disability theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and typically an advanced degree in disability studies or a related social science field. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as NVivo or SPSS), academic databases, and knowledge of accessibility standards are often required. Strong critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and effective written and verbal communication skills distinguish top professionals in this area. These skills are vital for conducting impactful research, advocating for inclusion, and advancing scholarly and policy understanding of disability issues.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in disability studies research when conducting fieldwork or community-based studies?

One common challenge in Disability Studies Research is ensuring inclusive and accessible research methods that meaningfully engage participants with diverse disabilities. Researchers must balance ethical considerations, such as informed consent and confidentiality, with practical aspects like accessible communication and data collection tools. Building trust and authentic partnerships with disability communities is crucial, which often requires additional time and cultural competence. Additionally, researchers may encounter barriers related to institutional support or funding for participatory approaches, but overcoming these helps produce more impactful and representative findings.

What is the difference between Disability Studies Research vs Rehabilitation Counselor?

AspectDisability Studies ResearchRehabilitation Counselor
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in Disability Studies, Sociology, or related fieldMaster's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or related field, licensure often required
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, policy organizationsHealthcare settings, community agencies, private practice
Industry UsageAcademic research, policy development, advocacyClient counseling, rehabilitation planning, support services

Disability Studies Research focuses on understanding disability from social, cultural, and policy perspectives, often within academic or advocacy settings. Rehabilitation Counselors work directly with individuals to develop rehabilitation plans and support their integration into society. While both roles require advanced education, their work environments and primary functions differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Disability Studies Research jobs?

For Disability Studies Research jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Disability Studies Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,840 per year, or $48 per hour.

Clinical Assistant Professor - Disability Studies

Austin, TX • On-site

The University of Texas at Austin
Education • 10K+ employees
Learn more about The University of Texas at Austinexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin is seeking applicants for a full-time, non-tenure track clinical faculty position. This position comes with a nine-month appointment for one year, after which time and concurrent with favorable evaluations, it may be renewed with two year rolling appointments. This position does not come with the offer of, or the possibility of, tenure.
Of particular interest are candidates prepared to teach disability studies courses and manage the Disability Studies Program.
Disability Studies (DS) is an interdisciplinary academic field. Scholarship from a vast array of disciplines including history, humanities, social work, gender studies, anthropology, to name a few, contribute to this field. DS focuses on how disability is constructed, viewed, and understood culturally, politically, economically, and socially. People with disabilities are centered and their experiences in the world create the context for discussion.
Responsibilities include:
  • Teaching undergraduate and/or master's-level courses in DS
  • Advising students in the DS graduate portfolio program
  • Advising students in the undergraduate DS minor
  • Coordinating DS events across campus with the Disability Cultural Center and faculty in other colleges who work with disability studies
  • Coordinate curriculum

The University of Texas at Austin offers unique opportunities for individuals who wish to pursue an academic career in a dynamic, collegial environment.The School of Social Work, which is ranked nationally among the top ten schools of social work, awards bachelor's (BSW), master's (MSSW), and doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees within a research-intensive public university.The School of Social Work is committed to supporting excellence in teaching and scholarship among its faculty and students. The school welcomes applications for clinical faculty positions from exceptional practitioners and scholars committed to teaching and leading initiatives that create environments conducive to the flourishing of all students.
Qualifications
The position requires a master's degree and must meet University requirements for rank.
The preferred candidate will hold a PhD in which their doctoral or current scholarship focuses on a disability studies topic as well as teaching experience in disability studies related courses.
Application Instructions
To ensure consideration all documents requested must be uploaded via Interfolio before a full review can begin. Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, name and contact information of three references, and a statement of teaching experience and philosophy.

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