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Research Director Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Analyst

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

... Director, research faculty, economists and staff. The Research Analyst will also work closely with the Institute's Research Initiatives team on Institute-led data and research projects, including the ...

Baker Donelson

Legal Research Analyst

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Director of Knowledge Management and Research SUMMARY: The Legal Research Analyst serves as a trusted expert resource at the intersection of legal knowledge, information science, and client service ...

NCSU

Sponsored Research Administrator

Raleigh, NC

Embedded staff act as direct, day-to-day strategic partners to principal investigators (PIs ... Because the research administration landscape is shaped by shifting federal mandates (including ...

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Research Director information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$55.9K

$186K

$224.1K

How much do research director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for research director in Raleigh, NC is $185,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,700.00 and $222,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research director?

A research director manages a company’s research and development department. As a research director, you supervise team members, overseeing data collection and analysis, product design, and manufacturing. Other responsibilities include hiring and training new staff, conducting performance evaluations, and gathering information and preparing detailed reports about the progress and outcomes of research projects. The qualifications for a career as a research director are a doctorate in science and at least five years of management experience.

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

To thrive as a Research Director, you need advanced expertise in research methodology, data analysis, and project management, typically supported by a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software, data visualization tools, and research management systems is often required. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for guiding research teams, ensuring the quality of deliverables, and aligning projects with organizational goals.

How does a research director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Research Director, you will frequently work with cross-functional teams, including product managers, data analysts, marketing professionals, and senior leadership. Collaboration often involves establishing research priorities, aligning on project goals, and communicating key findings to various stakeholders. Effective Research Directors facilitate regular meetings, provide clear direction to research staff, and ensure that research insights are integrated into broader organizational strategies. This collaborative approach is essential for delivering impactful research outcomes that support business objectives.

What is the difference between Research Director vs Research Manager?

AspectResearch DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; some roles prefer advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in research departments, overseeing multiple projectsManaging research teams and projects, focusing on execution
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, academic, and government research settingsCommon in corporate and academic research teams

The Research Director typically holds a higher strategic leadership role, overseeing research initiatives and setting long-term goals. The Research Manager focuses more on managing day-to-day research activities and team coordination. Both roles require strong research credentials, but the Research Director's scope is broader and more strategic.

More about Research Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

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For Research Director jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Director jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Director jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Research Director jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Research Director job openings:

Research Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Director job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $185,968 per year, or $89.4 per hour.

Research Analyst

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Department Kenan Institute of Private Ent-331600 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open Date 08/19/2026 Application Deadline 09/02/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF) Working Title Research Analyst Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty Position Number 20078153 Vacancy ID NF0009967 Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent FTE 1 Hours per week 40 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Proposed Start Date 09/28/2026
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
Established in 1985 by Frank Hawkins Kenan, the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise is a nonpartisan business policy think tank affiliated with the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School. The nonprofit institute and its affiliated centers convene leaders from the private sector, academic community and government to build a greater understanding of how entrepreneurship, economic development and global commerce can work for the public good. The institute leverages best-in-class research to develop market-based solutions to today's most complex economic challenges. In doing so, the institute aims to support businesses and policies that better the lives of people in North Carolina, across the country and around the world.
Position Summary
The Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise is seeking a Research Analyst to support both academic and translational research initiatives in collaboration with Kenan Institute experts, including the Executive Director, research faculty, economists and staff. The Research Analyst will also work closely with the Institute's Research Initiatives team on Institute-led data and research projects, including the North Carolina economic Forecasting Initiative and the American Growth Project, a place-based economic forecasting initiative.
Specific job duties include:
* Data analysis and modeling: Perform statistical analysis and econometric modeling to understand economic trends and evaluate policy outcomes. Identify, organize, and clean data using statistical software such as Stata, SAS, R, and Python among others.
* Research development: Conduct literature reviews on a broad set of economic and business topics in support of development of research papers, white papers, and reports.
* Team collaboration: Collaborate with fellow research analysts, economists, and other institutional stakeholders to scale-up the American Growth Project's regional economic indicators and related content. This will involve participating in brainstorming sessions, contributing to research design, and engaging in regular discussions to foster innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to economic analysis and community development.
* Knowledge dissemination: As a research analyst, you will be expected to effectively communicate research findings to diverse audiences through both written and verbal communication. You will assist with writing white papers, Kenan Insights and commentaries, policy briefs, and other translational research materials.
* Project Management: Since this is a highly collaborative environment, as a research analyst you will be expected to effectively manage your components of projects, communicate project progress to team members and meet deadlines.
* This position is contingent upon the continued availability of funding.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Master's or Bachelor's and 0-2 years' experience; or will accept a combination of related education and experience in substitution.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Must have familiarity with statistical software such as STATA, SPSS, SAS, etc.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Two years of relevant work experience or a master's degree preferred.
Additional preferred qualifications include:
* Familiarity with database structures and querying a plus.
* Strong writing and communication skills.
* Experience with data visualization packages, such as Tableau or PowerBI, as well as
spreadsheet/presentation software, including preparing summary charts, graphs, and tables.
* Enthusiasm for making persuasive, data-driven arguments.
* Ability to work with different stakeholders including both academic and business partners.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
Additionally, this position is only open to United States citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/324223
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Mayra Reyes Department Contact Telephone or Email mayra_reyes@kenan-flagler.unc.edu Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789

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