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Exercise Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

The Exercise Specialist is a critical part of the HPL team and assists members, including research staff, with site regulatory compliance/safety, supplies ordering & coordination, as well as ...

... Research/Program Development 1. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures for assigned areas. 2. Incorporates current research into exercise programs. 3. Demonstrates ...

... Research/Program Development 1. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures for assigned areas. 2. Incorporates current research into exercise programs. 3. Demonstrates ...

... Research/Program Development 1. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures for assigned areas. 2. Incorporates current research into exercise programs. 3. Demonstrates ...

... Research/Program Development 1. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures for assigned areas. 2. Incorporates current research into exercise programs. 3. Demonstrates ...

... Research/Program Development 1. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures for assigned areas. 2. Incorporates current research into exercise programs. 3. Demonstrates ...

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Exercise Research information

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$28K

$90.4K

$154K

How much do exercise research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise research in the United States is $90,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is exercise research?

Exercise research is the scientific study of physical activity, its effects on the human body, and how exercise can be used to prevent or treat health conditions. Researchers in this field investigate topics like exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports performance, rehabilitation, and the psychological impacts of physical activity. The goal is to understand how different types, intensities, and frequencies of exercise influence health, fitness, and overall well-being. Exercise research informs guidelines for physical activity and helps develop interventions to improve public health.

What are jobs in exercise research?

Jobs in exercise research include exercise physiologists who research the human body and how it responds and adapts to exercise. As an exercise physiologist, you examine the human response to exercise. Your responsibilities involve the study of subjects in controlled lab settings. You develop tests to prove a thesis by recording physical, metabolic, and development information. Other duties can include working in an exercise science department at a research institute or post-secondary school. Keeping up to date on current peer-reviewed exercise science research is a critical part of your job. As a researcher, you travel to various locations to research and test subjects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Researcher, you need a strong background in exercise science, physiology, research methodology, and typically a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, and human performance testing tools is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills set outstanding researchers apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing rigorous studies, accurately analyzing data, and effectively communicating findings to advance the field.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in exercise research, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in exercise research often encounter challenges such as recruiting a sufficient and diverse participant pool, ensuring compliance with study protocols, and controlling for external variables that may affect outcomes. These challenges are typically addressed through strategic partnerships with local fitness centers or clinics, the use of robust study designs, and careful data management. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including statisticians and clinicians, also helps ensure methodological rigor and the reliability of research findings.

What is the difference between Exercise Research vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/PhD), research certificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in exercise science, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, healthcare institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, community health programs
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research institutions, government agenciesHealthcare, fitness, rehabilitation facilities
Primary FocusConducting studies, developing exercise protocols, advancing scientific knowledgeDesigning and implementing exercise programs for health and rehabilitation

Exercise Research focuses on scientific studies and developing new exercise protocols, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply this knowledge directly to patient care and fitness programs. Both roles require related credentials but serve different purposes within the health and fitness industry.

How do I become an exercise researcher?

To become an exercise researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced roles. Gaining experience through internships, research assistant positions, and developing skills in data analysis and laboratory techniques are important steps. Certification or training in research methods and familiarity with relevant tools like statistical software can also enhance job prospects.

What careers can you get with exercise research?

Careers in exercise research include roles such as exercise physiologist, sports scientist, research analyst, and clinical exercise specialist. These positions often require knowledge of human physiology, data analysis skills, and certifications like ACSM or NSCA, and may involve working in laboratories, healthcare settings, or sports organizations.

What cities are hiring for Exercise Research jobs?

Cities with the most Exercise Research job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise Research jobs?

The most popular types of Exercise Research jobs are:

What states have the most Exercise Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Exercise Research jobs include:

Infographic showing various Exercise Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, and 51% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,419 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


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Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

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Job description

Department Overview

The exercise physiologist works collaboratively with physicians, mid-level providers, and allied health staff to provide direct and indirect patient care to patients participating in all phases of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Assists in planning, coordinating, and implementing a rehabilitation and education program which limits the adverse physiological and psychological effects of cardiac and pulmonary illness. At times, he exercise physiologist also functions as a physical therapy aide, assisting therapists with and providing basic care as a member of the patient care team. The exercise physiologist assists in maintaining the practice environment in a clean, orderly condition including cleaning and preparation of treatment areas, stocking of linen, supplies and other duties.

Function/Duties of Position

Provides direct and indirect care to patients in all phases of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. 

  • Demonstrates proficiency in clinical skills/knowledge specific to specialty area and follows established protocols
  • Maintains knowledge base essential to role
  • Protects patient privacy and maintains confidentiality
  • Coordinates with team to develop, implement, evaluate and revise patient treatment plan
  • Leads exercise sessions, including warm up and cool down
  • Performs assessments and reassessments during exercise sessions. Communicates concerns regarding symptoms, vital signs, or clinical observations to the coordinator and/or physician.
  • Responds to urgent or emergent situations
  • Provides encouragement and utilizes motivational techniques to patients adhering to a healthy lifestyle
  • Formulates teaching plan, based on identified learning needs, that includes prevention, disease process, medication compliance, smoking cessation, dietary practices, physical activity, cardiovascular risk factors, and other identified needs
  • Prepares and presents both individual and group education based on needs of patients and their families 
  • Evaluates learning effectiveness l. Identifies and addresses psychosocial needs of the patient and family 
  • Reinforces concept of healthy lifestyle by words and actions.
  • Documents according to established policies and procedures 
  • Performs patient care in a timely manner
  • Participates in community education and activities 
  • Ensures emergency equipment is working properly and maintained
  • Assists in ordering supplies and ensure department is stocked s. Coordinates maintenance of equipment and building
  • Performs routine cleaning and reports mechanical failure of equipment as needed
  • Productively utilizes unassigned time 

Provides leadership and participates in the assessment and development of department and hospital related projects

  • Maintains a leadership style that promotes service excellence and placing patients first
  • Demonstrates practice consistent with current research/standards/policies
  • Participates in orientation of new employees
  • Serves as a resource for staff members, students, residents, and fellows
  • Presents and coordinates educational opportunities for department staff
  • Serves on hospital committees as needed
  • Demonstrates fiscally responsible resource utilization and promotes cost containment, as appropriate
  • Follows research protocols, as appropriate
  • Ensures compliance with hospital policy, AACVPR guidelines, and OSHA regulations

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • A minimum of Bachelor degree in exercise science or equivalent degree and one year of related experience OR

  • Equivalent combination of medically related experience and education.

  • May require ACLS, Automatic External Defibrillator, First Aide and CPR certified; AND

  • Some positions may require additional certifications such as American College of Sports Medicine (ASCM), Athletic Trainer Certified (ATC) by the National Athletic trainer Association Board of Certification  (NATABOC), CSCS Certified Strengthening & Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength & Condition Association; American College on Exercise (ACE), AFAA, and First Aid.

  • Positions with in person patient care: BLS certificate within 30 days of hire or prior to independent practice, whichever comes first

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology (or equivalent)
  • Two years' experience working in cardiac rehabilitation.
  • Understanding of regulatory agency guidelines for cardiac rehabilitation
  • Intermediate/Advanced electrocardiography interpretation 
  • American College of Medicine Exercise Specialist Certification 
Additional Details

Constant exposure to usual cardiac rehabilitation environmental conditions

Possible exposure to body substances

Ability to work a minimum of 8 hours a day and longer, according to organizational requirements

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: PART_TIME

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About Oregon Health & Science University

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Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887