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Research Methods Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... research to ensure accuracy • Actively seeks opportunities to support proposal development. Can ... methods; working to build brand expertise. • Embraces our culture, is active in other activities ...

... analytic methods; working to build brand expertise. Embraces our culture, is active in other ... research experience preferred, with exposure to quantitative methodologies Strong process and time ...

Research Scientist, Sr.-Oncology

Evanston, IL · On-site

$88.07 - $136.51/hr

Provide methodological expertise in study design, data analysis, and interpretation (e.g., observational studies, pragmatic trials, health services research, implementation research methods)

Research Technician Fellowship

Lisle, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

... scientific research methods. * Root Biology Lab (part-time, September 2026 - May 2027): The Root Biology Lab at The Morton Arboretum works to connect roots, fungi, and rhizosphere processes ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Methods information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$109.2K

$146.8K

How much do research methods jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research methods in Chicago, IL is $109,208.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Methods Specialist, you need a strong background in research design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field such as psychology, sociology, or statistics. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or SAS), survey tools, and data management systems is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing robust studies and sharing findings. These competencies ensure that research is rigorous, reliable, and actionable for informing decisions or advancing knowledge.

What are research methods?

Research methods are the systematic strategies and techniques that researchers use to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They can be broadly categorized into qualitative and quantitative methods, depending on whether the focus is on numerical data or non-numerical insights. Choosing the right research method is crucial for ensuring the validity and reliability of the study's outcomes. Examples include surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, and case studies.

What is the difference between Research Methods vs Data Analyst?

AspectResearch MethodsData Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically degrees in social sciences, research methods certificationsDegrees in statistics, data science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, market research firmsCorporate, finance, marketing departments
Industry UsageDesigning studies, collecting data, analyzing research resultsInterpreting data, creating reports, supporting decision-making

Research Methods focus on designing and conducting research studies, while Data Analysts interpret data to inform business or academic decisions. Both roles require analytical skills but differ in scope and application.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in research methods, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in research methods often encounter challenges such as ensuring data validity, managing large or complex datasets, and staying updated with the latest methodological advancements. Collaboration with subject matter experts and statisticians is key to addressing these issues, as is regular participation in training and workshops. Additionally, clear communication with stakeholders helps ensure that research objectives and methodologies are aligned, reducing misunderstandings and improving outcomes.

What do you do in research methods?

Research methods involve designing and conducting studies to gather data, using techniques such as surveys, experiments, and observations. Professionals in this field analyze data with statistical tools and ensure the research follows ethical standards. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of research software are essential for success.
What job categories do people searching Research Methods jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Research Methods jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Research Methods job openings in Chicago, IL 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 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,208 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Senior Research Associate - Global Equity (Technology)

William Blair

Chicago, IL

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

The Senior Research Associate will support senior analysts in covering the global technology sector across hardware, software, semiconductors, and communication services. The role offers broad exposure: working across tech business models, portfolios, market capitalizations, and geographies. This role suits someone early in their investment career who has genuine intellectual curiosity about the global technology sector and a drive to build fluency in AI tools and workflows as part of the research process. Deep technical expertise isn't required, but genuine interest in global investing, the sector and enthusiasm for modern research methods are essential.

Responsibilities:

  • Support idea generation and company analysis across global technology names, building and maintaining financial models including revenue forecasts, margin analysis, cash flow projections, and valuation work. Work across business models, geographies, and potentially across different parts of the market cap range, supporting multiple portfolios and strategies.
  • Conduct primary research: read filings, transcripts, and sell-side notes; track industry news, supply chain developments, and competitive dynamics, including AI infrastructure, semiconductor, and software trends. Develop detailed knowledge of assigned industries and companies and keep abreast of related market developments.
  • Develop and continually build expertise in AI tools, workflows, and applications relevant to investment research, including using AI to accelerate data gathering, synthesis, screening, and model maintenance, and help identify new ways AI can improve team research processes.
  • Prepare research notes, earnings summaries, presentations, and other materials to communicate investment ideas, research findings, and opinions to portfolio managers and the broader investment team.
  • Participate in company and management meetings, site visits, sell-side broker meetings, and industry conferences; help document key takeaways and maintain information for ongoing analysis.
  • Maintain organized, current research databases across coverage names. Gather, analyze, and organize market, company, and financial performance data.
  • Collaborate closely with senior analysts and portfolio managers across strategies, assisting in identifying and formulating new investment ideas and recommending securities across targeted industry groups.
  • Ensure all work activities are in compliance with applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree required; Finance, Economics, Engineering, or Computer Science backgrounds all welcome. MBA or CFA designation preferred.
  • 3+ years of relevant experience in sell-side equity research, investment banking, or buy-side investment roles preferred.
  • Strong financial modeling and accounting/statement analysis skills. Knowledge of data gathering and analysis best practices and methodologies. Solid grounding in investment concepts and products.
  • Either experience or demonstrated interest in complex tech business models: semiconductors, hardware supply chain, software, communication services. Genuine curiosity about the technology sector, and enthusiasm for building domain expertise and AI-enabled research workflows on the job; prior tech-specific coverage is a plus, not a requirement.
  • Comfortable working with, and eager to expand skills in, AI-assisted research tools and modern data platforms. Proficient in Microsoft Office and industry-standard data sources.
  • Demonstrated global experience or interest - cultural immersion, language skills, or international exposure valued.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to build relationships and work collaboratively across multiple teams, investment professionals, and stakeholders. Ability to work independently in support of team goals.

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