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$28K

$90.4K

$154K

How much do exercise science research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science 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 else can I do with an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree prepares individuals for careers in fitness training, sports coaching, rehabilitation, and health promotion. Graduates can work as personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, physical therapy assistants, or health educators, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. The degree also provides a foundation for advanced study in related health and medical fields.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work in roles such as exercise physiologists, research coordinators, or fitness specialists, often in clinical, academic, or sports settings. They analyze human movement, develop training programs, and may conduct research using tools like VO2 max testing and biomechanical assessments. Certification and knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and data analysis are important for these positions.

What is the highest paying job in exercise science?

The highest paying jobs in exercise science typically include exercise physiologists, sports medicine physicians, and clinical exercise specialists, especially those with advanced certifications or medical degrees. These roles often require specialized training, experience, and sometimes work in clinical or research settings, with salaries varying based on location and level of expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Exercise Science Research, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Exercise Science Research often encounter challenges such as recruiting and retaining study participants, ensuring data reliability, and managing complex interdisciplinary projects. Building strong relationships with local communities and athletic organizations can improve participant engagement. Additionally, collaborating closely with colleagues from nutrition, physiology, and medical backgrounds helps ensure comprehensive research design and analysis. Staying current with advancements in technology and research methodology also supports high-quality, impactful studies.

What is the difference between Exercise Science Research vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise Science ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Science or related field; research experience often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology; certification (e.g., ACSM) often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, universities, research institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, sports facilities
Employer & IndustryAcademic institutions, research organizations, government agenciesHealthcare providers, fitness industry, sports teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in exercise scienceCareer as a practicing exercise physiologist

Exercise Science Research focuses on conducting studies to advance knowledge in exercise and human performance, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply exercise principles directly to improve health and fitness in clinical or fitness environments. Both roles require related educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Science Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Science Researcher, you need a solid background in physiology, biomechanics, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree such as a master's or PhD in exercise science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and research methodologies is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial for designing studies and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research practices, accurate data interpretation, and impactful contributions to the advancement of exercise science.

What is exercise science research?

Exercise science research involves the systematic study of how physical activity, exercise, and sports impact human health, performance, and disease prevention. Researchers in this field investigate a range of topics including biomechanics, physiology, nutrition, psychology, and motor control. The goal is to understand how exercise affects the body and mind so that effective programs and recommendations can be developed for individuals and populations. Exercise science research is crucial for advancing knowledge in sports performance, rehabilitation, and overall health promotion.

How to become an exercise science researcher?

To become an exercise science researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Developing skills in research methods, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, along with experience in scientific studies, is essential for success in this field.
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Exercise Science Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,419 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
Visiting Faculty of Exercise Science

Visiting Faculty of Exercise Science

Xavier University

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Current Xavier University employees must apply to the internal career site by logging into WorkdayVisiting Faculty of Exercise Science

Xavier University is part of the 500-year-old Jesuit Catholic tradition of academic excellence in the liberal arts. These values are central to our mission. We strive for a climate of respect and inclusiveness that welcomes and supports members from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, is committed unreservedly to open and free inquiry, and deliberately seeks out multiple perspectives.

Xavier's urban location in Cincinnati allows faculty to work with community partners to develop engaged learning and internship opportunities. Xavier is a member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities as well as the Big East.

The Exercise Science program, located in the School of Sport Science and Management (name change effective July 1, 2026) in the College of Health and Human Sciences (name change effective July 1, 2026) , invites applications for a 9-month visiting professor position in exercise science beginning in Fall 2026. The Sport Science & Management Department offers undergraduate degrees in exercise science, health science and wellness, sport management/marketing, as well as master's degrees in athletic training, and sport administration. The position is renewable annually for up to three years, pending continued need. Visa sponsorhip is not available for this position.

The Exercise Science program's teaching and research laboratory is housed in the Health United Building, a state-of-the-art facility that was designed as a national model of excellence for collegiate academic, health, wellness, and recreational services. Some equipment that is available for teaching and research in the exercise science laboratory include: COSMED K5 portable metabolic system, ActiGraph wGT3X-BT accelerometers, activPAL4 activity monitors (to measure sitting, standing, and stepping behavior), Fibion Research triaxial accelerometers, Meta Quest 3: Next-Gen Mixed Reality Headset, Polar heart rate monitors, Bod Pod, Functional Movement Screening (FMS) kits, Quark T12x Diagnostic grade 12-Lead Wireless ECG, MicroQuark spirometer, Nova Biomedical Lactate Plus blood lactate meters, Lange skin fold calipers, Cybex isokinetic dynamometer, hand grip dynamometers, Trackmaster TMX428 treadmills, and Velotron and Monark cycle ergometers.

Qualifications

A minimum of a master's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health Science, or related field. The preferred candidate will have earned a doctorate in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health Science, or related field and NSCA and/or ACSM certification(s). ABD applicants will be considered.

Position

Visiting Professor: Nine-month contract.

Salary/Rank

Salary commensurate to qualifications and experience.

Responsibilities include:

  • Teaching undergraduate courses in the exercise science curriculum, including courses such as: Introduction to Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Nutrition for Sport & Exercise, Fitness Training Principles, Exercise Testing & Prescription, Exercise Testing and Prescription Lab, Biomechanics, Sports Psychology, Research Methods, Sports Science, Cardiopulmonary Testing and Rx, Fitness in Special Populations,
  • Participating in program, departmental, college, and university service activities.

Application

To ensure consideration, interested and qualified applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three professional references on Xavier University's website.

Applications will be reviewed immediately and accepted until the position closes at the University's discretion. If you have any questions about this position, please contact the search committee chair, Dr. Jeremy Steeves atsteevesj@xavier.edu

Benefits - applies only to full-time positions:

Xavier University offers a wide array of complementary and affordable benefit options to meet the financial, educational, health, and wellness needs of you and your family. Eligibility varies by position and employment class:

  • Comprehensive insurance plans including medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage.

  • Tax advantaged accounts including health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, and dependent care account.

  • Financial security via life and long-term disability insurance, accident and illness insurance, and retirement savings plans.

  • Generous paid time off work options including vacation, sick leave and holidays.

  • Tuition remission for employees and their eligible dependents.

Apply