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Lead Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tror AI for everyone

Gen AIML Expert

Iselin, NJ · On-site

$123K - $166K/yr

Senior lead with broad understanding of AI space and expertise in creating/ holding executive briefings. 12+ years of experience with a high-level individual contributor or lead researcher ...

Upbound

Senior UX Researcher

Plano, TX · On-site

In this in-office role, you'll lead research initiatives that drive insights into customer behavior, product usability, and future innovation opportunities-helping shape products that meet the needs ...

Thomson Reuters

Lead Research Engineer

Eagan, MN · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Research Engineer who will bring expertise in AI and ML and is interested in building data-driven capabilities that transform the way legal, accounting, and government ...

Scout AI

AI Researcher - Fury Team

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

You will lead research in core areas including reinforcement learning, vision-language-action modeling, sim-to-real transfer, dynamic AI memory, and multi-agent coordination. Your work will be ...

Fujitsu

Principal Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

As an individual contributor, lead research initiatives to advance fundamental Physical AI technologies, including but not limited to robotics, computer vision, AI, and human-computer interaction(HCI ...

Victoria's Secret

Senior UX Researcher

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$112K - $153K/yr

Your Role We are seeking a highly skilled Senior UX Researcher to lead research initiatives that shape product strategy, inform roadmaps, and drive meaningful business impact. You will independently ...

Scout AI

AI Researcher - Fury Team

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$160K - $400K/yr

You will lead research in core areas including reinforcement learning, vision-language-action modeling, sim-to-real transfer, dynamic AI memory, and multi-agent coordination. Your work will be ...

Hollister Incorporated

Lead R&D Engineer

Libertyville, IL · Hybrid

$99K - $131K/yr

The Lead R&D Engineer is a member of the Hollister Ostomy New Product Development team. The Lead R&D Engineer will lead or participate in new product development project teams to drive and develop ...

New

THOMSON REUTERS

Lead Research Engineer

Frisco, TX · On-site +1

$95K - $126K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Research Engineer who will bring expertise in AI and ML and is interested in building data-driven capabilities that transform the way legal, accounting, and government ...

THOMSON REUTERS

Lead Research Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site +1

$100K - $132K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Research Engineer who will bring expertise in AI and ML and is interested in building data-driven capabilities that transform the way legal, accounting, and government ...

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Lead Researcher information

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$35K

$168K

How much do lead researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead researcher in the United States is $160,216.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $167,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Researcher, you need advanced analytical skills, a deep understanding of research methodologies, and typically a graduate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, data visualization tools, and research management systems is often required. Strong project management, leadership, and communication skills help coordinate teams and disseminate findings effectively. These skills are crucial for designing rigorous studies, leading collaborative research efforts, and producing impactful results.

What is the difference between Lead Researcher vs Research Analyst?

AspectLead ResearcherResearch Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant field; experience in research leadershipBachelor's or Master's degree; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentLeading research projects, managing teams, strategic planningData collection, analysis, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageResearch firms, academia, corporate R&DMarket research, finance, healthcare, academia

The main difference between a Lead Researcher and a Research Analyst lies in their responsibilities and seniority. Lead Researchers oversee research projects and manage teams, while Research Analysts focus on data analysis and reporting. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and leadership duties.

What are Lead Researchers?

Lead Researchers are experienced professionals who oversee and direct research projects within academic, scientific, or corporate environments. They are responsible for designing research methodologies, managing research teams, securing funding, and ensuring that research objectives are met. Lead Researchers analyze data, publish findings, and often collaborate with other experts to advance knowledge in their field. Their leadership and expertise are critical to the success and integrity of research initiatives.

How does a Lead Researcher typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a project?

As a Lead Researcher, you will frequently coordinate and communicate with professionals from various backgrounds, such as data analysts, subject matter experts, and project managers. This collaboration is essential for integrating diverse perspectives, ensuring methodological rigor, and aligning research outcomes with organizational goals. You'll often facilitate meetings, delegate specific research tasks, and synthesize input from team members to drive the project forward efficiently. Strong interpersonal and project management skills are crucial for navigating differing viewpoints and maintaining progress on shared objectives.
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Lead Researcher jobs near you
Lead R&D Product Developer

Lead R&D Product Developer

The Fresh Factory

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

As the Lead R&D Product Developer, the candidate will lead R&D projects within their area of expertise. They will work closely with a team of scientists and researchers to innovate, develop new products or processes, and improve existing ones. Their role will involve designing and executing experiments, analyzing data, and providing technical guidance to junior team members.
Key Responsibilities:
• Project Leadership: Lead R&D projects from conception to completion, ensuring that they are completed on time and within cost/quality restrictions.
• Research and Development: Conduct research to develop new products or improve existing ones. This may involve designing experiments, organizing sample collection efforts, analyzing data, and making recommendations based on the findings.
• Technical Expertise: Provide technical expertise in your field of specialization, guiding the team in problem-solving and decision-making. Understand the use of strategic ingredients, products, processes, and packages to support the development of new products.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, supply chain, quality, and manufacturing, to ensure that R&D projects align with company goals.
• Scale-up and Commercialization: Scale the products from the R&D stage to commercial scale. Lead trial runs and sample production of new products. Oversee initial full-scale production of new products.
• Documentation: Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of experiments, findings, and methodologies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that R&D activities comply with relevant regulations and standards.
• Mentorship: Manage and mentor the team of scientists, providing guidance and support in their professional development.
Qualifications:
• Master's in Food Science-related degree with 3+ years of product development experience OR Bachelor's in Food Science-related degree with 4+ years of product development experience.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Proven track record of innovation and problem-solving.
• Should be a self-starter.
Key Skills:
• Technical proficiency in your field of expertise.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work in an ERP system and/or Management systems.
Physical Requirements:
• Must be able to read text and instructions in English
• Spanish fluency is preferable but not essential
• Stands most of the day during trials and productions
• Being able to taste all the food products (except for allergies and dietary orientation)
• Bend/Stoop/Position oneself to move crates of raw materials
• Works in a cold room up to approximately 35% of the time
• Must wear Personal Protective Equipment
JOB CODE: 1000044

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