1

Nursing Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nursing Research Scientist Department: Nursing Administration New to OU Health? Ask your recruiter about our competitive total rewards package, including a possible sign-on bonus and relocation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nursing Research information

See salary details

$25

$45

$70

How much do nursing research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for nursing research in the United States is $45.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.26 and $55.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I get into nursing research?

To pursue a career in nursing research, individuals typically need a registered nurse (RN) license and often hold a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related field; many roles require a master's or doctoral degree in nursing, research, or a related discipline. Gaining experience through clinical practice, developing strong research skills, and familiarizing oneself with research methodologies and data analysis tools are also important steps.

What is the difference between Nursing Research vs Nursing Educator?

AspectNursing ResearchNursing Educator
Required CredentialsRegistered Nurse (RN), often with a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing or related fieldRegistered Nurse (RN), often with a Master's or Doctorate in Nursing Education or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, hospitals, universities, healthcare organizationsHospitals, colleges, universities, training programs
Primary FocusConducting studies to improve patient care, healthcare practices, and nursing protocolsTeaching nursing students, developing curricula, and training future nurses
Industry UsageAcademic, healthcare research, policy developmentEducational institutions, healthcare facilities

While both Nursing Research and Nursing Educator roles require advanced nursing credentials, Nursing Research focuses on conducting studies to advance healthcare practices, whereas Nursing Educators primarily teach and train nursing students. Both careers are vital in healthcare, but they differ in daily responsibilities and work environments.

What is nursing research?

Nursing research is a scientific process that helps improve the care nurses provide by generating new knowledge, evaluating current practices, and finding better ways to deliver patient care. It involves systematic inquiry—such as studies, surveys, and clinical trials—focused on issues relevant to nursing practice, education, and patient outcomes. The goal is to support evidence-based practice, ensuring that nursing interventions are effective and safe, and ultimately improving healthcare delivery.

Are there research jobs in nursing?

Yes, nursing research jobs involve conducting studies to improve patient care, healthcare practices, and clinical outcomes. These roles often require a nursing degree, research skills, and familiarity with data analysis tools, and they can be found in academic, hospital, or healthcare organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in nursing research roles?

Professionals in nursing research often face challenges such as balancing clinical responsibilities with research duties, securing funding for studies, and navigating complex ethical and regulatory requirements. Additionally, translating research findings into practical improvements in patient care can be demanding, requiring strong collaboration with clinical staff and administrators. Effective time management, persistence, and strong communication skills are essential for overcoming these obstacles and driving meaningful contributions to evidence-based nursing practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in nursing research?

To thrive in Nursing Research, you need advanced knowledge of nursing theory, research methodologies, and data analysis, often supported by a graduate degree such as an MSN or PhD. Familiarity with statistical software (like SPSS or SAS), research databases, and Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills help researchers design studies, analyze results, and disseminate findings effectively. These skills ensure that research is rigorous, ethical, and impactful, ultimately advancing nursing practice and patient care.
More about Nursing Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Nursing Research jobs? Cities with the most Nursing Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nursing Research jobs? The most popular types of Nursing Research jobs are:
What states have the most Nursing Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Nursing Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nursing Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,345 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Nursing Research Scientist

OU Health

Oklahoma City, OK

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


OU Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Title:Nursing Research ScientistDepartment:Nursing AdministrationJob Description:

New to OU Health? Ask your recruiter about our competitive total rewards package, including a possible sign-on bonus and relocation assistance if you are located outside of 100 miles!

The Nurse Scientist leads a strategic program of nursing research designed to improve patient outcomes and cultivate a culture of inquiry across the nursing workforce. This role provides scientific leadership, mentorship, and collaborative support for research, evidence-based practice (EBP) initiatives, and scholarly dissemination. The Nurse Scientist partners with nursing leadership, academic institutions, and system stakeholders to advance high-quality research, support student and employee development, and align scholarly work with organizational priorities.

Essential Responsibilities

Responsibilities listed in this section are core to the position. Inability to perform these responsibilities, with or without an accommodation, may result in disqualification from the position.

  • Lead a coordinated program of nursing research that advances patient outcomes and strengthens a culture of inquiry.

  • Maintain expertise in research methods, EBP frameworks, data analysis, and scholarly dissemination.

  • Ensure all research activities comply with ethical, legal, regulatory, and institutional standards.

  • Promote integration of research findings into clinical practice and student learning experiences.

  • Serve as a scientific mentor for undergraduate and graduate nursing students.

  • Provide individualized coaching on research design, project execution, and scholarly writing.

  • Support students and employees in navigating IRB processes, data collection, and analysis.

  • Foster confidence and competence in presenting and publishing scholarly work.

  • Partner with nursing leadership, academic institutions, and system departments to support research priorities.

  • Communicate project status, risks, outcomes, and recommendations to stakeholders.

  • Build and maintain relationships with universities, research offices, and professional organizations.

  • Participate in committees, taskforces, and collaborative initiatives that support research and student development.

  • Promote dissemination of student and departmental research through publications and conference presentations.

  • Support manuscript preparation, abstract development, and submission processes.

  • Encourage and model scholarly productivity aligned with organizational goals.

  • Promote, develop, and support OU Health Nursing's digital presence and engagement within various internal and external media platforms.

General Job Duties

  • Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Doctorate in Nursing (PhD, DNP, or equivalent) required

Experience: 5 years of RN experience required

Demonstrated expertise in nursing research, EBP, and scholarly dissemination

Experience mentoring students or earlycareer nurses

Certification/License/Registration: Active RN License

Certified Nursing Professional Development - American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

#cb

Current OU Health Employees - Please click HERE to login.OU Health is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including PTO, 401(k), medical and dental plans, and many more. We know that a total benefits and compensation package, designed to meet your specific needs both inside and outside of the work environment, create peace of mind for you and your family.

What OU Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


OU Health logo

About OU Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

OU Health is a leading company in the healthcare industry, based in Oklahoma City, OK, US. As the state's only comprehensive academic health system, OU Health provides a full spectrum of medical care, from world-class cancer treatments to life-saving emergency care. Founded with a mission to advance healthcare, medical education, and research across the state, the company has a solid reputation for clinical excellence and a patient-centered approach. Upholding its core values of compassion, integrity, and innovation, OU Health has remarkably made a significant contribution to medical research and education and raised the standard of care across a broad range of specialties.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Oklahoma City, OK, US

Year founded

2020