1

Research Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Investigator

Princeton, NJ · Hybrid

$122K - $148K/yr

Position Summary The Research Investigator supports the execution of Clinical Pharmacology activities, collaborating closely with departmental mentors to contribute to assigned projects. This role ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Research Investigator information

See salary details

$35K

$56.1K

$101K

How much do research investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research investigator in the United States is $56,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $47,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which research job pays the most?

Senior research roles such as Principal Investigator, Research Director, or Lead Scientist typically offer the highest salaries in research careers, often exceeding six figures. These positions usually require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and are common in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and government research agencies.

What does an investigative researcher do?

An investigative researcher conducts detailed investigations to gather information, analyze data, and verify facts related to a specific subject or case. They often use research methods, interviews, and data analysis tools to support legal, scientific, or security-related objectives. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What is the role of a research investigator?

A research investigator is responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing scientific studies to gather data and test hypotheses. They often work in laboratories or clinical settings, utilizing research protocols and tools such as statistical software, and may require relevant certifications or advanced degrees. Their goal is to generate reliable findings to advance knowledge in their field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Research Investigator position, and why are they important?

A Research Investigator typically requires a strong background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant advanced degree (e.g., PhD, MSc). Familiarity with statistical software, laboratory equipment, or fieldwork tools—as well as certifications in areas like human subjects research—are commonly needed. Outstanding problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These capabilities are essential for conducting high-quality research, interpreting results accurately, and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

What are typical career advancement opportunities for a Research Investigator?

Research Investigators often have opportunities to progress into senior research, project leadership, or management roles within their organization. Many, over time, may choose to specialize further in their field, lead independent research projects, or transition into roles such as Principal Investigator or Research Director. Advancement typically depends on demonstrated expertise, publishing impactful findings, securing grant funding, and successfully managing research teams. Continuous professional development and networking with peers also help to open doors for broader career growth.

What is a Research Investigator job?

A Research Investigator is responsible for conducting systematic studies in a specific field, analyzing data, and developing conclusions to advance knowledge or solve problems. They often work in academic institutions, government agencies, or private industries, focusing on scientific, medical, or social research. Their duties include designing experiments, gathering and interpreting data, writing reports, and publishing findings. Research Investigators may also collaborate with other researchers and present their work at conferences.

How to become a research investigator?

To become a research investigator, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences is required, often followed by advanced degrees like a master's or Ph.D. Experience in research methods, data analysis, and familiarity with laboratory tools are important, along with strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Some positions may also require certification or licensing depending on the industry or research area.
More about Research Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Research Investigator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Investigator jobs? The most popular types of Research Investigator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Research Investigator jobs? The top employers for Research Investigator jobs are:
What states have the most Research Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Investigator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Research Investigator jobs? For Research Investigator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Research Investigator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,057 per year, or $27 per hour.
Physician Research Investigator

Physician Research Investigator

HealthPartners

Bloomington, MN • On-site

$46K - $47K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


HealthPartners rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

HealthPartners Institute is seeking a full-time Physician Research Investigator (0.8 FTE - 1.0 FTE) with both clinical and research experience relevant to the study of chronic disease in adult populations. Areas of focus may include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases prevalent in adults. Eligible candidates may bring expertise in a range of study designs including observational or interventional studies. Candidates with prior experience in health services research, clinical decision support, or implementation science are encouraged to apply. Research Investigators at HealthPartners Institute may obtain or maintain external academic appointments. Eligible candidates are encouraged to practice part-time within the HealthPartners Medical group depending on practice interest and availability (up to 40% of Total FTE could be clinical work).

At HealthPartners Institute, Researcher Investigators are expected to support and develop externally funded research programs, conduct nationally and internationally recognized scholarly clinical or health services research, and collaborate with other investigators, clinicians, and leaders to improve health outcomes and care delivery. Successful candidate(s) will be accountable for conceptualizing and designing research projects, leading, and collaborating on such projects, and disseminating research results through presentations and publications in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Service on committees and participation in scientific peer-review processes are also expected. HealthPartners Institute Research Investigators are primarily supported through grants and contracts from external sources, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI).

HealthPartners Institute is focused on improving health and well-being through research, education, and practice. Our Research Investigators are embedded in an integrated health system and our research draws on rich clinical data derived from comprehensive, fully integrated state-of-the-art electronic medical and dental record and claims data from over a million HealthPartners patients and members. In addition, HealthPartners Institute is a member of numerous research networks, including the Health Care Systems Research Network (HCSRN) and the Minnesota EHR Consortium, providing opportunities to conduct multisite and population-based studies. We offer a supportive, collegial work environment and mentoring for early and mid-career investigators.

HealthPartners fosters an environment that is inclusive, encourages creative thinking, and celebrates diversity. We're committed to living our values of excellence, compassion, integrity, and partnership. If you feel your skills are a match for this role, we would love to hear from you and provide additional information about how we support our researchers.

Required Qualifications:  

  • MD/DO or equivalent degree and clinical experience in internal medicine, family medicine, hospital medicine, preventive medicine, or a related discipline
  • Early to mid-career investigator with demonstrated leadership skills and potential to lead active portfolio of externally funded research.
  • Prior history as first author of scholarly peer-reviewed publications 
  • Experience authoring research proposals.
  • Methodologic expertise in qualitative or quantitative approaches
  • Strong people skills
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Current Minnesota or Wisconsin Medical license or eligible for MN or WI medical license, based on active medical license in another state and in good standing.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • PhD or master's degree in public health or similar formal training in research methodology
  • Demonstrated history of successful collaboration in interdisciplinary project teams
  • 3+ years of health care research experience
  • Experience working with electronic health records or other health care data.

For more information on HealthPartners Institute, go to www.healthpartners.com/institute/research.

At HealthPartners we believe in the power of good - good deeds and good people working together. As part of our team, you'll find an inclusive environment that encourages new ways of thinking, celebrates differences, and recognizes hard work.

We're a nonprofit, integrated health care organization, providing health insurance in six states and high-quality care at more than 90 locations, including hospitals and clinics in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We bring together research and education through HealthPartners Institute, training medical professionals across the region and conducting innovative research that improve lives around the world.

At HealthPartners, everyone is welcome, included and valued. We're working together to increase diversity and inclusion in our workplace, advance health equity in care and coverage, and partner with the community as advocates for change.

Benefits Designed to Support Your Total Health
As a HealthPartners colleague, we're committed to nurturing your diverse talents, valuing your dedication, and supporting your work-life balance. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to support every aspect of your life, including health, time off, retirement planning, and continuous learning opportunities. Our goal is to help you thrive physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially, so you can continue delivering exceptional care.

Join us in our mission to improve the health and well-being of our patients, members, and communities.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identify, status as a veteran and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.


What HealthPartners employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom