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Research Scientist Optimization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Research Scientist

Chapel Hill, NC

The Research Scientist will contribute to experimental design, protocol optimization, data interpretation, and scientific dissemination while supporting ongoing collaborative initiatives within the ...

Virginia Tech

Research Scientist

Blacksburg, VA

Research Scientist Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533982 Work type: Research Faculty ... Contribute to the development and optimization of laboratory protocols and techniques. Mentor and ...

Virginia Tech

Research Scientist

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

... and optimization of project protocols and timelines Serve as a research ethics resource for ... D. in science, engineering, liberal arts, or related discipline Background in and understanding of ...

Hedra

Research Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Research Scientist will lead original research, design novel architectures, and collaborate ... preference optimization for model alignment is a plus Company : Hedra is a content creation ...

Anduril Industries

Senior Research Scientist

Waltham, MA

$106K - $135K/yr

Scientific Computing: software design, algorithm implementation, and software analysis, testing, and optimization; * Probability: statistics and random processes. * A Senior Research Scientist should ...

Anduril Industries

Senior Research Scientist

Broomfield, CO

$99K - $126K/yr

Scientific Computing: software design, algorithm implementation, and software analysis, testing, and optimization; * Probability: statistics and random processes. * A Research Scientist should have ...

Anduril Industries

Senior Research Scientist

Broomfield, CO

$99K - $126K/yr

Scientific Computing: software design, algorithm implementation, and software analysis, testing, and optimization; * Probability: statistics and random processes. * A Senior Research Scientist should ...

Prelude Therapeutics

Research Scientist

Wilmington, DE · On-site

... lead optimization and translational research, with a focus on developing novel therapeutics for ... scientific strategy. The ideal candidate brings deep experimental expertise, a collaborative ...

Actalent

Research Scientist

Frederick, MD · On-site

Research Scientist The Research Scientist will lead pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo evaluation of ... Support mRNA in vitro transcription (IVT), quality control, application, and optimization for pre ...

Biotech Recruiting

Research Scientist

Poway, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Research Scientist Turn Innovation into Products That Labs Depend On Why This Role Matters The next ... Design and execute experimental workflows for the discovery, optimization, and validation of new ...

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All JobsResearch Scientist Optimization Jobs

Research Scientist Optimization information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do research scientist optimization jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for research scientist optimization 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Scientist in Optimization, and why are they important?

To excel as a Research Scientist in Optimization, you need a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and optimization theory, often supported by a PhD in a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or MATLAB, optimization libraries (e.g., Gurobi, CPLEX), and experience with data analysis tools are typically required. Critical thinking, creativity, and strong communication skills help in formulating novel approaches and presenting complex findings clearly. These skills drive the development of efficient algorithms and solutions, advancing research impact and innovation in the field.

What does a Research Scientist in Optimization do?

A Research Scientist in Optimization specializes in developing and applying mathematical techniques to improve processes, systems, or algorithms. Their work often involves formulating optimization problems, designing solutions, and collaborating with engineers or data scientists to implement and test their models. These scientists may work in various industries, such as technology, logistics, finance, or manufacturing, to help organizations make better decisions, save resources, or improve performance. Their daily tasks include conducting experiments, analyzing large datasets, and publishing findings in scientific journals.

What types of projects and collaborations can a Research Scientist in Optimization expect to be involved in?

As a Research Scientist specializing in Optimization, you can expect to work on projects that involve developing and improving algorithms to solve complex real-world problems in areas such as logistics, supply chain, or machine learning. Collaboration is common, often involving cross-functional teams with data scientists, software engineers, and domain experts to implement and test optimization solutions. You may also contribute to academic publications, attend conferences, and sometimes mentor junior researchers, all while staying current with the latest advancements in optimization techniques.

What is the difference between Research Scientist Optimization vs Data Scientist?

AspectResearch Scientist OptimizationData Scientist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Operations Research, Mathematics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academiaBusiness analytics, tech companies, consulting firms
Industry UsageOptimization problems, algorithm development, mathematical modelingData analysis, predictive modeling, data visualization

Research Scientist Optimization focuses on developing mathematical models and algorithms to solve complex optimization problems, often in research or academic settings. Data Scientists analyze large datasets to extract insights and build predictive models for business decisions. While both roles require strong analytical skills, Research Scientist Optimization emphasizes mathematical and algorithmic development, whereas Data Scientists focus on data analysis and interpretation.

More about Research Scientist Optimization jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Scientist Optimization jobs? Cities with the most Research Scientist Optimization job openings:
What states have the most Research Scientist Optimization jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Scientist Optimization jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Research Scientist Optimization jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Research Scientist Optimization jobs are:
Research Scientist Optimization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Scientist Optimization job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.
Research Scientist

Research Scientist

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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

263rd of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Department Globl Hlth and Infect Disease-427801 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open Date 06/09/2026 Application Deadline 06/23/2026 Open Until Filled No Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF) Working Title Research Scientist Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty Position Number 20076729 Vacancy ID NF0009798 Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent FTE 1 Hours per week 40 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $62,115 - $110,371 Proposed Start Date 06/22/2026
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
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education and research.
Patient care: We promote health and provide superb clinical care while maintaining our strong tradition of reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities across North Carolina and beyond.
Education: We prepare tomorrow's healthcare professionals and biomedical researchers from all backgrounds by facilitating learning within innovative and integrated curricula and team-oriented interprofessional education to ensure a highly skilled workforce.
Research: We develop and support a rich array of outstanding health sciences research programs, centers and resources. We provide infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration among disciplines throughout and beyond our university to support outstanding research. We foster programs in the areas of basic, translational, mechanistic and population research.
Position Summary
The UNC HIV Cure Center Browne Lab seeks a highly motivated and innovative Research Scientist to advance cutting-edge investigations into the immunology of HIV reservoirs, latency reversal strategies, and mechanisms of viral clearance. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational and discovery-based research focused on advancing HIV cure strategies within a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.
The successful candidate will possess expertise in virology, immunology, or a closely related biomedical science field, along with the scientific independence, technical proficiency, and intellectual curiosity necessary to drive complex research projects forward. The Research Scientist will contribute to experimental design, protocol optimization, data interpretation, and scientific dissemination while supporting ongoing collaborative initiatives within the lab and across research partners.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity or professional-level institutional planning/assessment experience, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
  • Experience conducting and supporting infectious disease laboratory and field research in resource-constrained settings.
  • Experience managing large cross-institutional projects.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
  • Experience with mammalian cell culture.
  • Experience with virology, PCR, and Western blotting.
  • Experience with collecting and analyzing single-cell omics data.
  • Technical expertise in tissue culture, cellular immunology, flow cytometry, and molecular biology methodologies, including DNA/RNA extraction and analysis, qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and related experimental techniques.
  • Experience working with advanced immunologic or virologic assays, assay optimization, and troubleshooting complex experimental systems is highly desirable.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Experience with manuscript preparation.
  • Attention to detail, including achieving stated objectives according to strict timelines.
  • Doctoral Degree in Microbiology or Immunology preferred.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
  • Must possess flexibility, mobility, and strength to store and access research samples, reagents, and supplies up to 8 lbs, with or without a reasonable accommodation. 
  • Must have the physical ability to perform many varied tasks, with or without a reasonable accommodation (i.e., fine motor skills, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a high level of concentration to repeatedly perform challenging techniques). 
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/320167
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Ashley Jones Department Contact Telephone or Email ashley_jones@med.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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