ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cypress HCM

R&D Scientist

Irvine, CA

$110/hr

R&D Scientist Overview: We are seeking a Senior R&D Scientist to join our startup team and help commercialize cutting-edge technologies. This role involves designing and scaling up systems to improve ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch Scientist JobsResearch Scientist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Research Scientist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$52.7K

$135.7K

$181.5K

How much do research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for research scientist in Riverside, CA is $135,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,200.00 and $180,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research scientist?

Research Scientists are professionals who conduct experiments and investigations to increase knowledge in a specific field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or social sciences. They design studies, analyze data, and publish their findings in scientific journals. Research Scientists often work in academic institutions, government agencies, or private industry, contributing to advancements in technology, healthcare, and understanding of the natural world. Their work is critical for developing new products, improving processes, and solving complex scientific problems.

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

To thrive as a Research Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and subject-specific expertise, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD or MSc. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (like R or SPSS), and research documentation tools is often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with colleagues and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure rigorous, innovative research and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.

How do research scientists typically collaborate with other departments or teams within an organization?

Research Scientists often work closely with cross-functional teams, including data analysts, engineers, and product managers, to ensure that their findings are effectively integrated into practical applications. Collaboration may involve regular meetings, joint planning sessions, and sharing experimental results to guide decision-making. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches the research process but also helps align scientific efforts with organizational goals, fostering innovation and impactful outcomes.

Do research scientists get paid a lot?

Research scientists' salaries vary depending on their field, experience, education level, and location. In general, they earn competitive wages, with those in specialized or high-demand areas often earning higher salaries, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, technology, or government research. Advanced degrees and skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or programming can also influence earning potential.

What degree do you need for a research scientist?

A research scientist typically needs at least a master's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, physics, or engineering. Many roles, especially in academia or advanced research, require a Ph.D. and strong skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or specialized tools.
More about Research Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Research Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Research Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Scientist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Research Scientist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Research Scientist job openings:

Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Scientist job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 73% In-person, 16% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,747 per year, or $65.3 per hour.

Senior Research Scientist

Irvine, CA • On-site

Chapman University School of Pharmacy
See more jobs at Chapman University School of Pharmacyexternal

$104K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Chapman University School of Pharmacy is seeking a Senior Research Scientist who will conduct advanced scientific research in the areas of agency, intentions, and artificial intelligence. The role involves designing and conducting research studies, performing complex data analysis, publishing findings, and supervising junior researchers.
Responsibilities:
• Conceptual analysis of descriptions of AI systems with focus on the concepts of alignment, alignment faking, belief, deception, and intention.
• Project objective : to describe, evaluate, and improve the definitions of the key terms used in describing the alignment of AI systems with human values and goals.
• Describe the way these key terms are defined in AI research and related fields.
• Evaluate how well these definitions serve their function.
• Improve the definitions so that they serve their function better.
• Supervise a team collecting and classifying these definitions in AI research and related fields.
• Supervise and direct conceptual analyses of the results to refine the definitions.
• Prepare and submit research reports and a manuscript for peer-reviewed publication.
• Help write grants and other funding requests on this broad topic.
• Development of a benchmark for agency and intentionality in AI.
• Project objective: To develop a benchmark based on multidisciplinary input, designed to rate how well AI agents perform activities requiring agency and intentionality.
• Provide theoretical input into the benchmark development.
• Contribute to implementation and analysis of the benchmark prototypes.
• Prepare reports and submit research findings for peer-reviewed publication.
• Help write grants and other funding requests on this broad topic.
• Outreach and event organization within the Agency, Intentions, and Artificial Intelligence consortium.
• Project objective: Support the continuing interdisciplinary collaboration between neuroscientists, philosophers, and AI researchers to investigate intentions in artificial intelligence models and their relation to intentions in biological systems.
• Contribute to event organization with focus on the composition of their scientific program.
• Contribute scientific expertise in workshops, symposia, and talks.
• Assist with organization of educational events for a broader audience (workshops, summer schools).
• Help write grants and other funding related to this area.
• Laboratory and Collaborative Responsibilities In addition to project-specific work, the employee will assume other research and mentorship responsibilities in the lab:
• Provide technical support for the setup and operation of specialized lab equipment, including electroencephalography equipment.
• Present research findings at academic conferences and meetings, and help more junior lab members prepare for conferences and meetings.
• Assist in the scientific aspects of planning and coordination of academic workshops, symposia, and lab events.
• Co-mentor and help supervise undergraduate research assistants, Postbac researchers, and graduate students providing training in experimental design, equipment usage, data collection, data analysis, and coding as well as preparing posters and publications.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Ph.D. in Philosophy, Psychology, Neuroscience, or a related field.
• 1+ year of postdoctoral research experience in philosophy, psychology, or neuroscience.
• 5+ peer-reviewed publications in recognized scientific journals.
• Experience with MATLAB for experiment design and JASP or R for statistical analysis.
• Advanced understanding of inferential statistical methods and neurophysiological data analysis.
• Proficiency in setting up and using electrophysiological equipment (e.g., EEG systems).
• Excellent scientific writing and public presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple research tasks
Preferred:
• Experience supervising or mentoring research assistants or students
Company:
A top 50 research school, Chapman Pharmacy is an ACPE and WASC-accredited institution located in Irvine, California. Founded in , the company is headquartered in US, , with a team of 501-1000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Apply