1

Graduate Student Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Research Scientist will work collaboratively with faculty, graduate students, visiting scholars, and interdisciplinary partners while also developing independent research aligned with ...

This position communicates the results of scientific research through presentations, mentors undergraduate/graduate student researchers, and maintains a safe and efficient work environment. This is a ...

This position communicates the results of scientific research through presentations, mentors undergraduate/graduate student researchers, and maintains a safe and efficient work environment. This is a ...

RESEARCH SCIENTIST, Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL) - Intelligent Logistics Systems ... journals; mentor graduate students; contribute to executive and graduate-level teaching ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Graduate Student Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do graduate student research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate student 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 is a graduate student research scientist?

A Graduate Student Research Scientist is a graduate-level student, typically pursuing a master's or doctoral degree, who conducts scientific research as part of their academic program. They work under the supervision of faculty members, contribute to research projects, and may assist with experiments, data analysis, and publication of findings. Their work is essential for advancing knowledge in their field and often forms the basis for their thesis or dissertation. In addition to research, they may also participate in academic conferences, collaborate with other researchers, and sometimes assist in teaching.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate student research scientist?

To thrive as a Graduate Student Research Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific methodology, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, along with enrollment in a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (such as R, SPSS, or MATLAB), and research compliance protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, perseverance, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with advisors and present your findings. These skills ensure rigorous research, meaningful contributions to the field, and successful progress toward academic and professional goals.

What are some common challenges faced by graduate student research scientists when managing research projects alongside coursework?

Graduate Student Research Scientists often face the challenge of balancing demanding research responsibilities with coursework and teaching obligations. Effective time management and prioritization are essential, as research projects may require long hours of data collection, analysis, and troubleshooting. Collaborating with advisors and lab members can help distribute the workload, but it's important to communicate openly about expectations and deadlines. Many students find it helpful to set clear goals and utilize organizational tools to keep track of tasks and milestones.

Are research scientists paid well?

Research scientists, including graduate student research scientists, typically earn salaries that vary based on experience, location, and funding sources. Entry-level positions often have modest pay, but salaries can increase with specialization, publications, and industry experience, especially in private sector or government research roles.

Do graduate student research scientists get paid for research?

Graduate student research scientists typically receive stipends, fellowships, or assistantship wages in exchange for conducting research as part of their academic program. These payments help support their living expenses while they gain research experience and develop skills in their field. Compensation varies by institution and funding source but is a common practice in graduate research roles.

What cities are hiring for Graduate Student Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Graduate Student Research Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Graduate Student Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Graduate Student Research Scientist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Graduate Student Research Scientist jobs?

For Graduate Student Research Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Student 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.

Graduate Student Research Assistant

Remote

$21.36 - $24.04/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Federal Judicial Center (Center) is the federal courts' agency for research and continuing education. Congress established the Center in 1967 as a separate organization within the federal judicial system at the request of the Judicial Conference of the United States. A nine-member board, chaired by the Chief Justice of the United States, determines its basic policies.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
The Research Division undertakes empirical research related to the operation of the federal courts, often at the request of the Judicial Conference of the United States and its committees, specific courts, or other groups in the federal court system.
The primary duties and responsibilities of the graduate student research assistant are to provide support to Research Division project teams in the design and conduct of social science research aimed at discovering innovative or improved approaches to the judicial administration in federal appellate, district, and bankruptcy courts. Specific duties and responsibilities, generally exercised under the guidance of a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate, may include support with:
  • Conducting literature reviews;
  • Organizing, coding, and analyzing data;
  • Creating and documenting datasets;
  • Creating tables and graphs to present research findings;
  • Developing research instruments such as interview protocols, questionnaires, and coding protocols;
  • Writing and administering online surveys; and
  • Writing reports of research findings.

The Federal Judicial Center offers a range of telework and flexible work schedule options based on the employee's position categorization. The Graduate Student Research Assistant position is a remote-eligible position and will not require relocation.
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
KEY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Selectee must be a United States Citizen, subject to the exceptions enumerated at https://www.uscourts.gov/careers/search-judiciary-jobs/citizenship-requirements-employment-judiciary.
  • Selectee must favorably complete a background investigation.
  • Relatives of Center staff members may not be employed at the Center in any capacity.
  • All requirements must be met for full consideration.

The Federal Judicial Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to achieving a professional and collegial workplace in which everyone is valued and treated fairly and respectfully.
Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled and seeking a graduate degree in a social or behavioral science discipline such as psychology, sociology, or political science at an accredited educational institution, on a full-time basis;
  • Experience working in a research environment either as a paid employee, intern, or volunteer, or as part of a graduate school program;
  • Knowledge of statistical programs such as SAS, SPSS, STATA, and R;
  • Knowledge of database management programs such as Excel, Access, or FileMaker;
  • Strong writing skills; and
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work collaboratively.

Summer graduate student research assistants are asked to commit to at least eight weeks of employment for 30 to 39 hours per week.
Spring and fall semester graduate student research assistants are asked to commit to 12 to 15 hours per week.
Graduate student research assistants are limited to working a maximum of 39 hours per week.
Education
Currently enrolled and seeking a graduate degree in a social or behavioral science discipline such as psychology, sociology, or political science at an accredited educational institution, on a full-time basis.
Additional information
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
  • Graduate Students (first and second year): $21.36 per hour
  • Graduate Students (third year or completed degree): $24.04 per hour

This position is part time. Benefits are not applicable for this position.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
This position is part time. Benefits are not applicable for this position.