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How much do independent researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent 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 an Independent Researcher job?

An Independent Researcher conducts studies, analyzes data, and develops knowledge outside of formal institutional settings. They often self-fund or seek grants, working on projects driven by personal interest or societal needs. This role requires strong self-discipline, research skills, and the ability to publish or present findings independently. Independent Researchers may collaborate with institutions, but they operate without direct employment by academia or private organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Independent Researcher position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Researcher, you need advanced analytical thinking, solid research methodologies, and expertise in your chosen field, often supported by a relevant degree or substantive research experience. Familiarity with data analysis tools, reference management software, and scientific databases is commonly required. Strong self-motivation, time management, and written communication skills help set outstanding researchers apart. These skills are crucial for producing credible, high-quality research independently, managing projects efficiently, and effectively sharing findings with diverse audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by Independent Researchers and how can they be addressed?

Independent Researchers often encounter challenges such as securing funding, accessing necessary resources, and maintaining motivation without the structure of a traditional institution. Navigating these hurdles usually involves proactive networking, seeking grants or sponsorships, and utilizing online academic platforms or open-source tools. Collaboration with other researchers or joining professional associations can provide valuable support and feedback. Staying organized and setting clear project milestones also helps maintain progress and motivation throughout the research process.

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Independent Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Researcher job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, 65% Part Time, 30% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Heersink School of Medicine-Open Rank-Neurosurgery (Independent Researcher/Resident Research Educ...

Heersink School of Medicine-Open Rank-Neurosurgery (Independent Researcher/Resident Research Educ...

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

University Of Alabama At Birmingham rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

214th of 534 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
School/College School of Medicine Title Heersink School of Medicine-Open Rank-Neurosurgery (Independent Researcher/Resident Research Educator) Assignment Category Full-Time Rank Assistant Professor Tenure Status Tenure Track Payroll Status Faculty 12 Job Description
The Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is seeking a qualified and motivated faculty member at the rank of Assistant Professor, tenure-earning, to serve as an Independent Researcher and Resident Research Educator.
As an independent researcher, the individual will develop and then maintain an excellent, extramurally funded independent research program in a neurosurgical-related area (50% - 75%). The criteria of research success are establishing an independent research program, regularly publishing in high quality, leading journals, and obtaining sufficient extramural funding for their research program. Other indicators of success include serving on editorial boards, study sections, and invitations to national and international research conferences.
As the Resident Research Educator, the individual will be responsible for the day-to-day facilitation of resident research education; mentoring; publication guidance; conference coordination (25% - 50%); reporting to the Residency Program Director and Department Chair. This role ensures that all residents receive structured, high-quality training in clinical, translational, and/or basic science research, aligned with departmental and institutional academic missions. This position integrates education, mentorship, and research infrastructure to promote scholarly productivity and prepare residents for academic neurosurgery careers.
In support of the Department's resident research education, responsibilities will include:
Monthly meetings with residents - research designs, project troubleshooting, barriers to progress
Journal Club support - interpretation of medical evidence, research design & methods (lead by MDs)
Resident publication guidance - authorship, submission, quality targets (approximately 2-3 residents per year)
Pre-research year oversight - project design regulatory approvals, team assembly
Research year oversight: project completion, publication goals, conference presentations
Certificate program advising - resident professional development, career pathways
Monthly trainee research performance reporting (to Dept Char & Resident Program Director)
Clinical faculty coordination - engagement as mentors and senior authors
Galbraith Lecture and Scientific Session coordination - annual planning and execution (with support from the Chair's office)
Participation in international research education programs and global neurosurgery training opportunities
Compliance - Ensure all programs meet regulatory and accreditation standards
Track and report research meeting attendance as part of monthly trainee performance reporting to the Residency Program Director.
The individual will be expected to establish annual milestones and deliverables and submit semi-annual reports on their progress of achieving the duties and goals for both the Independent Researcher and the Resident Research Educator roles. The individual's annual evaluation by the Department Chair and Residency Program Director will be based, in part, on how well they have accomplished these responsibilities.
For additional information about our department, please visit our website at https://www.uab.edu/medicine/neurosurgery
Required Qualifications
  • MD, MD/PhD, or PhD in a relevant field
  • Faculty appointment (or eligibility) within the Department of Neurosurgery or a related discipline at the University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Demonstrated record of scholarly achievement, including peer-reviewed publications
  • Experience mentoring trainees in research

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior leadership experience in graduate medical education or research training programs
  • Experience in clinical trials, translational research, or basic science investigation
  • Expertise in curriculum development and program evaluation
  • Knowledge of the field of neurosurgery, including common conditions, surgical procedures, and evidence-based research.

Posting Detail Information
Posting Number F2823P Open Date 04/16/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Nondiscrimination Statement
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, religion, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Special Instructions to Applicants Pre-employment Background Check
A pre-employment background check investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.
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About University of Alabama at Birmingham

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The University of Alabama at Birmingham is the heartbeat of Birmingham and an integral medical leader in the Southeast. The Birmingham campus is within walking distance of some of the best parks, entertainment, and dining in the region. UAB's three regional campuses expand their academic reach and responsibilities in addition to educating physicians in rural and underserved areas of the state. UAB is experiencing major and sustained investment and growth, due both to its exceptional research faculty and its culture of collaboration. Through concerted and strategic investments in its clinical and research enterprise, UAB has undergone an amazing transformation in the past five years and has strengthened its status and reputation as a leader in medical training, biomedical discovery, innovation, and patient care.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1859

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