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Research Director Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Research Director information

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$59.8K

$199K

$239.8K

How much do research director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for research director in Reston, VA is $199,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,000.00 and $238,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What does a research director do?

A research director oversees research projects, manages teams of researchers, and develops strategies to meet organizational goals. They analyze data, ensure research quality, and often collaborate with other departments to apply findings effectively. Strong leadership, analytical skills, and familiarity with research tools are essential for this role.

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 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.
More about Research Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Research jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Research Director jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Director jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Research Director jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Research Director job openings:
Research Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Director job openings in Reston, VA 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 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $199,041 per year, or $95.7 per hour.

Director, China Research Center, and Distinguished Tang Chair in China Research

RAND Corporation

Washington, DC • On-site

$152.70 - $262.50/hr

Other

Medical, Life

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Overview

RAND Global and Emerging Risks (GER) brings together leading experts, scholars, strategists, and practitioners to help decision makers understand, anticipate, and prepare to navigate the national security and geopolitical implications of consequential challenges to civilization and global security, including the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, the biotechnology revolution, a transforming climate, and intensified strategic competition. The China Research Center, founded in 2024, is dedicated to providing rigorous, forward‑looking analysis on how China projects economic and technological power, with a focus on artificial intelligence.

Director Responsibilities
  • Lead and guide all aspects of the center’s work in alignment with RAND’s mission to improve policy and decision‑making through objective research and analysis.
  • Develop and execute the center’s strategic plan.
  • Define and oversee the center’s research agenda, recruit resident research team members, and engage external collaborators.
  • Develop and sustain relationships with decision makers in government and industry, in the United States and allied/partner governments.
  • Identify and pursue new research and funding opportunities with foundations and donors.
  • Ensure the quality of the center’s research products.
  • Collaborate with GER’s other Centers and Chairs, and national security divisions on China and AI‑related research.
Qualifications
  • Excellent analytic skills and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of a multi‑disciplinary team on projects designed for policy impact.
  • Strong commitment to RAND’s core values of quality and objectivity.
  • Excellent track record in researching and publishing policy‑relevant issues on China, and providing insights and recommendations to decision makers.
  • Strong research and analysis capabilities, deep knowledge of the China policy environment, and excellent leadership and organizational management capabilities.
  • Successful management of a complex research portfolio and ability to develop a network for fundraising and research opportunities.
  • Exceptional interpersonal, staff management, client relationship, and written and oral communication skills.
Education Requirements

Master’s degree in a relevant field is required; a PhD is preferred. Preference for a background in the social sciences, quantitative methods, and operational analysis.

Experience
  • At least 8 years of research experience, with 10+ years desired.
  • Experience working with, or engaging regularly with, senior government, military, and/or industry leaders.
  • Demonstrated experience in fundraising and program building.
  • Background in or prior research on the intersection of China, technology, and geopolitics is an asset.
Security Clearance

Active security clearance or eligibility for a secret or higher clearance is required. The position requires regular access to classified material (multiple times per week).

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required for this position.

Location and Work Arrangement

Washington, DC; Pittsburgh, PA; or Santa Monica, CA. The role is flex, allowing work from home and the office. At least 50% of days must be worked on‑site at one of the RAND offices. Occasional travel to other RAND offices and to meet collaborators in the U.S. and overseas is expected.

Benefits

Senior Researcher salary range: $152,700–$262,500 (base pay plus RAND’s sabbatical pay). RAND provides health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, a savings plan, paid time‑off, and additional benefits.

Equal Opportunity

RAND is an equal opportunity employer. RAND is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

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