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How much do graduate researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate researcher?

Graduate Researchers are students enrolled in postgraduate programs, such as master's or doctoral degrees, who conduct original research as part of their academic requirements. Their work often involves designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing new knowledge to their field of study. Graduate Researchers typically work under the supervision of faculty advisors and may publish their findings in academic journals or present at conferences. Their research helps advance scientific understanding and prepares them for careers in academia, industry, or government.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, subject matter expertise, and a relevant undergraduate or master's degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory techniques or research methodologies is essential. Excellent time management, problem-solving abilities, and effective written and verbal communication skills help set exceptional candidates apart. These skills are crucial for conducting rigorous research, collaborating with teams, and producing high-quality academic or scientific outputs.

What are some typical challenges a graduate researcher might face when starting a new research project?

Graduate Researchers often encounter challenges such as narrowing down a feasible research question, accessing necessary resources or data, and adjusting to the pace of independent work. Collaborating with advisors and other lab members can help overcome initial uncertainty, but it may take time to develop effective communication and project management habits. Learning to balance coursework, teaching responsibilities, and research milestones is also a common hurdle, but most institutions provide support systems and mentoring to help navigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Graduate Researcher vs Research Assistant?

AspectGraduate ResearcherResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in a graduate program, such as a master's or PhDOften undergraduate or graduate students, sometimes with relevant coursework
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labs, universitiesUniversities, research centers, labs, sometimes industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research projectsAcademic, government, or industry research projects

Both roles involve assisting with research projects, but Graduate Researchers are usually enrolled in graduate programs and focus on their own research, while Research Assistants support faculty or senior researchers with specific tasks. The roles often overlap, but Graduate Researchers typically have more independence and are working towards a degree.

Who are the top companies hiring for Graduate Researcher jobs?

The top employers for Graduate Researcher jobs are:

What states have the most Graduate Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Graduate Researcher jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Researcher jobs?

For Graduate Researcher jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Graduate Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Survey Research Center - Graduate Research Assistant

High Point, NC

High Point University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about High Point Universityexternal

$12/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

High Point University rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

442nd of 633 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Title: Graduate Research Assistant

Department: Survey Research Center

Supervisor: Dr. J.R. Moller

Starting Rate of Pay: $12.00

Length of Employment: Fall 2026 - Eligible for rehire on a semester-by-semester basis

Department Description:

The HPU Survey Research Center (SRC) completes multiple survey research projects each semester, including the HPU Poll-a national and statewide public opinion survey. The SRC provides professional development opportunities for students. The SRC serves High Point, North Carolina, and the U.S. by publishing important findings about public opinion in North Carolina and beyond, while promoting student, staff, and faculty research. Findings from studies have been reported in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Washington Post, Fox News, Politico, The Raleigh News & Observer, Real Clear Politics, and academic journals.

Job Description:

Candidates from all majors and all graduate academic years are encouraged to apply, train, and serve in the Survey Research Center. Graduate Research Assistants are involved in all aspects of the High Point University Polls and other research projects on behalf of the HPU SRC and other academic departments in an internship-like experience. Graduate Research Assistants will aid in providing research mentorship to undergraduate Research Assistants in the SRC. The Graduate Research Assistant position will report to the Staff Director of the Survey Research Center and may perform research and administrative duties on different research projects, including, but not limited to the responsibilities listed below.

Job Location & Hours:

The student employee will perform most or all job duties at: Remote

Work hours may vary depending on SRC needs; however, student employees are limited to a maximum of 20 hours per week. This position requires up to 10 hours per week.

Responsibilities:

  • Processing and managing data by entering, transcribing, and coding survey data as well as qualitative focus group and interview data using Excel, SPSS, R, ATLAS.ti, and other tools.
  • Analyzing data and reporting findings contributing to summary reports, press releases, articles, and conference presentations.
  • Scheduling, attending, and contributing to research project team meetings.
  • Conducting literature reviews using online databases and tools like Research Rabbit.
  • In coordination with the Directors and other members of the project team, compiling and creating survey, focus group, and interview protocols and materials.
  • Collecting data by creating and deploying surveys using Qualtrics survey software, and scheduling focus groups and interviews.
  • Managing IRB submissions for research projects and completing the necessary IRB training.
  • Attending SRC lab sessions.

Required Qualifications:

  • Graduate Research Assistants must possess the ability to work independently.
  • Graduate Research Assistants must possess high levels of honesty and integrity.
  • Graduate Research Assistants must be High Point University graduate students.
  • Graduate Research Assistants must be in good standing with High Point University.

Desired Skills:

  • Desired skills include time management, coachability, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and working efficiently.
  • Experience with Excel, SPSS, and other research software is a bonus but not required, because it can be taught as part of the role.
  • The desire to mentor undergraduate Research Assistants.

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