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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do freshwater research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for freshwater research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freshwater research scientist do?

A Freshwater Research Scientist studies aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands to understand their ecosystems, water quality, and biodiversity. They often conduct fieldwork to collect water and biological samples, analyze data in laboratories, and monitor the effects of pollution or climate change on freshwater systems. Their research helps inform environmental policies, conservation efforts, and sustainable water management practices. These scientists often collaborate with government agencies, universities, and environmental organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freshwater research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freshwater Research Scientist, you need a strong background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, typically supported by an advanced degree such as an MSc or PhD. Proficiency in statistical analysis software (like R or Python), GIS tools, and water sampling equipment is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for analyzing data and sharing findings with diverse audiences. These skills ensure accurate research, impactful conservation recommendations, and successful collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

How do freshwater research scientists typically collaborate with government agencies and local communities?

Freshwater Research Scientists often work closely with government agencies, local stakeholders, and community organizations to collect data, share findings, and develop conservation strategies. Collaboration may involve participating in public meetings, consulting on regulatory guidelines, and translating complex scientific results into actionable recommendations. Successful scientists in this field are skilled at building partnerships and communicating their research to both technical and non-technical audiences, which is crucial for implementing effective water management solutions.
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Freshwater Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freshwater Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Research Scientist II

Atlantic Mine, MI • On-site

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.
Newspaper Publishers • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.external

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Summary

The Great Lakes Research Center (GLRC) at Michigan Technological University aims to advance freshwater and coastal ocean research as a foundation for health, economic prosperity and global sustainability through interdisciplinary research cutting across Michigan Tech’s academic programs. The GLRC includes collaborative faculty from twelve disciplines and seeks a Research Scientist II or III to fill a gap in computational genomics across campus.

Responsibilities and Essential Duties
  1. Evaluate and apply bioinformatics approaches to environmental data.
  2. Contribute technical expertise to sponsored research as both a project lead and team member.
  3. Successfully grow a funded research program, to become self‑supporting in the future.
  4. Prepare and deliver reports or presentations of research projects/analysis results to project sponsors as appropriate.
  5. Lead and contribute to the generation of proposals and external funding.
  6. Apply safety‑related knowledge, skills, and practices to everyday work.
  7. Apply research security knowledge to data, facilities, and personnel.
  8. Commit to learning about continuous improvement strategies and applying them to everyday work; actively engage in University continuous improvement initiatives.
  9. Apply safety‑related knowledge, skills, and practices to everyday work.
Required Education, Certifications, Licensures
  • Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computational biology, biological sciences, or a similar related field.
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident with ability to obtain and maintain necessary government clearances and access.
Required Experience
  • Experience developing reproducible bioinformatics analysis pipelines for environmental data.
  • Successful track record of working in multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong record of scholarly productivity, including peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, or other research outputs.
Desirable Education and/or Experience
  • Demonstrated leadership, project‑management, and mentoring experience in a research environment.
  • Track record of successful major grant proposal authorship and execution.
  • Rigorous graduate‑level coursework in one or more programming languages and statistical courses, particularly with environmental or ecological data.
  • Industry experience in the areas of interest, or similar areas.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities
  • Strong programming skills with experience in one or more of the following programming languages/software: Python, R, metagenomic pipelines such as DADA2, basic handling of high‑throughput sequencing data such as Samtools, GATK, statistical analysis tools for genetic associations, including mixed‑model platforms, multivariate models, and Bayesian approaches.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse partners and represent the organization externally.
  • Commitment to advancing Michigan Tech’s research mission and supporting a collaborative, inclusive research environment.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities
  • Demonstrated ability to translate research into applied outcomes, including technology development, policy engagement, or industry partnerships.
  • Demonstrated success in, or potential future contributions to, working with persons with a wide variety of backgrounds and viewpoints.
Work Environment and/or Physical Demands

The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Training and Other Conditions of Employment
  • Employee Safety Overview
  • Annual Data Security Training
  • Anti‑Harassment, Discrimination, Retaliation Training
  • Annual Title IX Training
Background Check

Offers of employment are contingent upon and not considered finalized until the required background check has been performed and the results received and assessed.

Additional Information

This position is contingent upon the continued availability of external funding.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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