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Research Development Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Research Development PhD Engineering Intern

Lexington, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Overview The PPL R&D Department is looking for PhD Engineering students from all engineering disciplines to begin in May 2026. We are looking for interns who are passionate about renewable energy ...

The Research Financial Analyst oversees all financial functions within the Clinical Trial Management System (CTMS), including the development, maintenance, and reconciliation of study budgets, as ...

This role specifically owns the development of the long-term User Strategy, acting as a primary ... You are responsible for ensuring research produces a clear, actionable, and insights-driven ...

Solid understanding of site operations and the drug development process. * Experience: * CRC I: Minimum of 1-3 years in clinical research setting at a clinical investigative site working with ...

Solid understanding of site operations and the drug development process. * Experience: * CRC I: Minimum of 1-3 years in clinical research setting at a clinical investigative site working with ...

Solid understanding of site operations and the drug development process. * Experience: * CRC I: Minimum of 1-3 years in clinical research setting at a clinical investigative site working with ...

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Research Development information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$48.2K

$101.2K

$164K

How much do research development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for research development in Lexington, KY is $101,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $115,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is research development?

A Research Development job focuses on identifying funding opportunities, developing research proposals, and fostering collaborations to support research initiatives. Professionals in this role assist researchers in securing grants, managing research projects, and aligning proposals with funding agency priorities. They often work in universities, research institutions, or corporate R&D departments to facilitate innovation and strategic growth. Strong communication, project management, and analytical skills are essential for success in this field.

What are the typical responsibilities of a research development professional?

Research Development professionals are primarily responsible for identifying funding opportunities, assisting with proposal preparation, and supporting strategic research initiatives. They often work closely with researchers, faculty, or scientists to develop competitive grant applications, ensure compliance with guidelines, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations. The role may also involve coordinating workshops or trainings, managing research portfolios, and tracking emerging trends in funding. Working in teams and liaising with administrative departments is common, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment that supports both individual and institutional research goals.

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

To excel in Research Development, a strong background in scientific research, project management, and grant writing is typically required, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with research administration software, funding databases, and compliance systems such as IRB protocols is highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration skills help professionals effectively manage complex projects and secure funding. These abilities are essential to drive innovation, streamline research processes, and support institutional or organizational growth.

What do research development professionals do?

Research development professionals support the planning, coordination, and management of research projects, often helping secure funding, develop proposals, and facilitate collaboration among researchers. They may also assist with grant writing, compliance, and project reporting, requiring strong organizational and communication skills. Their work typically occurs in academic, government, or industry research settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Development jobs in Lexington, KY?

The most popular types of Research Development jobs in Lexington, KY are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Development jobs in Lexington, KY?

For Research Development jobs in Lexington, KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Development jobs in Lexington, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Development jobs in Lexington, KY are:

Infographic showing various Research Development job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,174 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Research & Development - PhD Engineering Intern

PPL Corporation

Lexington, KY • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Company Summary Statement
As one of the largest investor-owned utility companies in the United States, PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL), is committed to creating long-term, sustainable value for our 3.5 million customers, our shareowners and the communities we serve. Our high-performing regulated utilities - PPL Electric Utilities, Louisville Gas and Electric, Kentucky Utilities and Rhode Island Energy - provide an outstanding experience for our customers, consistently ranking among the best utilities in the nation. PPL's companies are also addressing challenges head-on by investing in new infrastructure and technology that is creating a smarter, more reliable and resilient energy grid. We are committed to doing our part to advance a cleaner energy future and drive innovation that enables us to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 while maintaining energy reliability and affordability for the customers and communities we serve. PPL is a positive force in the cities and towns where we do business, providing support for programs and organizations that empower the success of future generations by helping to build and maintain strong, diverse communities today.
Overview
The PPL R&D Department is looking for PhD Engineering students from all engineering disciplines to begin in May 2026. We are looking for interns who are passionate about renewable energy, including wind and solar, energy storage, green hydrogen, sustainability, carbon capture and other decarbonization technologies.
Ideal candidates will be based in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or Kentucky and would be interested in the potential of transitioning to full-time employment with PPL upon graduation. During the school year, students will work part time, but during the summer, the position will work on-site and may include travel to work on clean energy R&D projects at numerous locations across PPL Corporation including Allentown, Pennsylvania, Providence, Rhode Island, as well as Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky. While traveling, all expenses will be paid.
Qualifications
Requirements
  • Available part time during the semester and full time during the Summer 2026 semester
  • Pursuing a PhD in Engineering from an ABET Accredited program.
  • Minimum 3.00 GPA

Responsibilities
  • Plans and controls all activities so as to provide an accident-free work place.
  • Uses engineering and scientific principles to plan projects, collect and analyze data, and create professional reports.
  • Gathers, correlates, and analyzes data using established procedures.
  • Coordinates and communicates results and participation in research projects within applicable business units and prepares summaries of value and results to management.
  • Identifies opportunities for improvement and/or suggests improved methods.
  • Performs detailed and/or engineering assignments involving established calculations, tests and analysis.
  • Performs other duties as directed by management.

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