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Research Scientist Cognitive Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stevens

Research Scientist

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Area to join its research team as a Research Scientist to support highly technical research and ... Requirements Master's degree in Computer Science, Cognitive Science, or related science/engineering ...

Computationalaudiology

$140 - $230/hr

... Cognitive Science, Electrical Engineering, Perception or a related field * 2+ years experience with development and implementation of audio processing methods * 3+ years experience with scientific ...

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How much do research scientist cognitive science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for research scientist cognitive science in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a research scientist in cognitive science do?

A Research Scientist in Cognitive Science studies human thought processes, perception, and behavior using experimental research, computational models, and data analysis. They often work in academia, tech companies, healthcare, or government institutions to develop insights into learning, decision-making, and artificial intelligence. Their work may involve designing experiments, analyzing cognitive data, and applying findings to real-world problems like human-computer interaction or machine learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research scientist in cognitive science?

To excel as a Research Scientist in Cognitive Science, a strong background in experimental design, statistical analysis, programming (e.g., Python or MATLAB), and an advanced degree (typically a PhD) in cognitive science or a related field is essential. Familiarity with specialized tools such as neuroimaging software, machine learning frameworks, or behavioral experiment platforms is highly valuable. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and clear written and verbal communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. Mastery of these competencies is crucial to conducting rigorous scientific research, sharing findings, and developing practical applications in cognitive science.

What are typical daily or weekly responsibilities for a research scientist in cognitive science?

As a Research Scientist in Cognitive Science, your day-to-day work often involves designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data using statistical and computational methods, and interpreting your findings. You will frequently collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams—including psychologists, neuroscientists, and engineers—to develop research projects and co-author scientific papers or presentations. Regular tasks may also include literature reviews, mentoring students or interns, and grant writing. The balance between independent research, teamwork, and administrative duties can vary depending on your institution or organization.

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Research Scientist Cognitive Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Scientist Cognitive Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Research Scientist, Reinforcement Learning

Basis Research Institute

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Basis Research Institute is a nonprofit applied AI research organization focused on understanding and building intelligence. The Research Scientist in Reinforcement Learning will lead efforts to develop new methods and algorithms for reinforcement learning and planning, while also contributing to collaborative research projects and mentoring junior team members.
Responsibilities:
• Conduct independent and collaborative research focused on the MARA project.
• Develop new methods and algorithms for reinforcement learning, planning, and decision-making in AI systems.
• Apply these methods to concrete challenges such as AutumnBench, physical and simulated robotics environments, and other domains.
• Disseminate research findings through academic publications and presentations at leading conferences.
• Provide mentorship to junior team members and contribute to the scientific discourse through seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects.
• Develop and maintain open-source software
• (Optionally) Publish and present findings in journals and conferences
• Contribute to the culture and direction of Basis
Qualifications:
Required:
• Researchers holding a PhD in computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cognitive science, or related fields.
• Strong background in reinforcement learning, planning, MDPs, optimal control, and sequential decision making.
• Individuals with a demonstrated track record in scientific research, evidenced through publications, technical reports, or impactful software projects.
• Excited about solving real world problems and having positive societal impact.
Preferred:
• Experience in developing AI systems that combine neural and symbolic methods is highly valued.
• Interest in foundational AI research and its applications to modeling, abstraction, and reasoning.
• Exceptional candidates who may not meet all of the following criteria are still encouraged to apply.
Company:
Basis is a nonprofit applied research organization with two mutually reinforcing goals. The first is to understand and build intelligence. Founded in 2022, the company is headquartered in New York, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

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