ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Exercise Science Research Jobs in Washington, DC

Howard University

Research Fellow

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... translational and basic science research projects in the Department of Dermatology ... Ability to exercise discretion and ensure a high level of confidentiality. * Excellent written and ...

Howard University

Research Fellow-1

Washington, DC · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

... translational and basic science research projects in the Department of Dermatology ... Ability to exercise discretion and ensure a high level of confidentiality. * Excellent written and ...

ATCC

Licensing Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site +1

$75K/yr

Conduct research to identify opportunities and qualify potential licensees, ensuring IP usage ... A combination of licensing & life science experience is ideal. * Ability to multi-task and exercise ...

ATCC

Licensing Associate

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$75K/yr

Conduct research to identify opportunities and qualify potential licensees, ensuring IP usage ... A combination of licensing & life science experience is ideal. * Ability to multi-task and exercise ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExercise Science Research JobsExercise Science Research Jobs in Washington, DC

Exercise Science Research information

See Washington, DC salary details

$31.7K

$102.4K

$174.4K

How much do exercise science research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise science research in Washington, DC is $102,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,400.00 and $111,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you do as an exercise scientist?

Exercise scientists can work in roles such as exercise physiologists, research coordinators, or sports scientists, often in clinical, academic, or sports settings. They analyze human movement, develop fitness programs, and conduct research using tools like VO2 max testing and biomechanical analysis, often requiring certifications like ACSM or NSCA. These positions typically involve working with clients or research participants to improve health, performance, or rehabilitation outcomes.

How much do exercise science researchers make?

Exercise science researchers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in data analysis or laboratory techniques may offer higher salaries, especially in academic or clinical settings.

What careers can I get with an exercise science degree?

An exercise science degree can lead to careers such as exercise physiologist, athletic trainer, fitness instructor, physical therapy assistant, or sports coach. These roles often require knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and fitness assessment, and may require certifications like ACSM or NASM. Job settings include gyms, sports teams, healthcare facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Exercise Science Research jobs in Washington, DC? For Exercise Science Research jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Exercise Science Research jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Exercise Science Research jobs in Washington, DC are:
Exercise Science Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Science Research job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,409 per year, or $49.2 per hour.
On-Call Research Specialist, Physical Activity (Future Opportunity)

On-Call Research Specialist, Physical Activity (Future Opportunity)

ICF International, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Description
The Work: ICF is looking for multiple On-Call Research Specialists to support a multi-year, large-scale systematic literature review project on physical activity for a federal client. Candidates will report to the Project Manager and/or Research Methodologist and will be primarily responsible for supporting literature screening and data extraction processes. They may also participate in various aspects of reporting results. The successful candidate will possess a strong understanding of exercise science concepts, the impacts of physical activity on health outcomes, the ability to critically evaluate scientific literature, familiarity with the systematic literature review approach, and strong attention to detail.
Job Location: This is a remote position however, the job must be performed in the United States. If you accept this position, you should note that ICF does monitor employee work locations and blocks access from foreign locations/foreign IP addresses, and also prohibits personal VPN connections.
As an on-call/freelancer, you might work zero to 30 hours per week, depending on our workload.
  • Work volume will fluctuate across the lifespan of the project. The weekly number of hours assigned to each Research Specialist will be dependent on project needs and Research Specialist's availability.
  • Research Specialists should be available to provide at least 5-10 hours of support per week; however, some weeks may have 0 hours assigned.
  • Our core work hours are 10am - 4pm Eastern Time with the option to start earlier or work later depending on your time zone.
  • Research Specialists may work outside of core work hours but must be able to attend and participate in regularly scheduled team meetings during ICF core work hours. Work schedules will be coordinated with the project leaders.

What You Will Do:
Research Specialists will support the project through the following activities
  • Screening literature for inclusion/exclusion in reviews
  • Extracting data from the included literature
  • Assessing the quality of included studies using standardized assessment tools
  • Supporting report development

What You Will Bring With You:
  • Master's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Education, Public Health, Health Science
  • 1+ year of experience conducting physical activity-related research
  • Ability to read, interpret, and critically evaluate scientific literature related to physical activity, public health, and health behavior and outcomes.
  • Experience conducting systematic literature reviews.

What We Would Like You To Bring With You:
  • Familiarity with the 2nd Edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
  • Experience with systematic literature review management platforms (e.g., DistillerSR, Covidence, Rayyan, etc.)
  • Basic understanding of the meta-analysis approach as demonstrated through past job experience, coursework, and/or publication history
  • Basic understanding of umbrella reviews (review of reviews) as demonstrated through coursework or publication history

Professional Skills:
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
  • Ability to prioritize and work on multiple projects under strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$74,090.00 - $125,954.00
Nationwide Remote Office (US99)

Apply