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Staff Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview We are seeking a Staff Research Scientist to join our team and contribute to the development of next-generation AI models. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on ...

Position Overview We are seeking a Staff Research Scientist to join our team and contribute to the development of next-generation AI models. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on ...

Staff Research Scientist

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a research scientist to join our print development organization, a collaborative team that enjoys a positive, supportive work environment and group social events. In ...

The Staff Research Scientist will work with fellow researchers and cross-functional partners to advance the long-term research agenda in quantum information and computation, helping deliver ...

Staff Research Scientist

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$218K - $335K/yr

As a Staff Research Scientist in the AI Research organization, you will be advancing the frontier of machine learning to solve challenging problems in autonomous driving. You will design ...

As a Staff Research Scientist in the AI Research organization, you will be advancing the frontier of machine learning to solve challenging problems in autonomous driving. You will designstate-of-the ...

Staff Research Scientist

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$137.60 - $206.40/hr

About the Role We are seeking a research scientist to join our print development organization, a collaborative team that enjoys a positive, supportive work environment and group social events. In ...

The Staff Research Scientistwill work withfellowresearchersand cross-functionalpartnerstoadvance ... D. in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, ElectricalEngineeringora related field.

PhD in Computer Science, Operations Research, Statistics, or highly quantitative field with strength in Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Data Analytics, Statistical or other mathematical analysis

PhD in Computer Science, Operations Research, Statistics, or highly quantitative field with strength in Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Data Analytics, Statistical or other mathematical analysis

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Staff Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do staff research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff research scientist 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 is a staff research scientist?

Staff Research Scientists are experienced professionals who lead and contribute to advanced research projects within organizations such as universities, private companies, or government agencies. They often serve as technical experts, guiding research direction, mentoring junior scientists, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams. Their responsibilities include designing experiments, analyzing data, publishing findings, and sometimes securing funding. Staff Research Scientists play a critical role in driving innovation and advancing knowledge in their field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a staff research scientist?

To thrive as a Staff Research Scientist, you need advanced expertise in scientific research methods, data analysis, and a relevant PhD or equivalent experience in your field. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, programming languages (such as Python or R), and experience with data management systems or research software is typically required. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to communicate complex ideas clearly are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure rigorous scientific outcomes, effective collaboration, and the advancement of innovative research projects.

What are some common challenges faced by staff research scientists when leading cross-functional research projects?

Staff Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as aligning project goals across multiple departments, managing diverse stakeholder expectations, and ensuring effective communication between research, engineering, and product teams. Balancing long-term research objectives with immediate business needs can also be complex. Success in this role typically involves strong leadership, adaptability, and the ability to translate scientific findings into actionable outcomes for the organization.

What is the difference between Staff Research Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectStaff Research ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in relevant field, extensive research experienceMaster's or PhD, entry to mid-level research experience
Work EnvironmentAdvanced research teams, often in industry or academiaResearch teams, labs, or academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, biotech firmsUniversities, research labs, industry R&D

The main difference is that a Staff Research Scientist typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and contributes to strategic research initiatives, whereas a Research Scientist is often in an earlier stage of their research career focusing on executing experiments and data analysis.

Do staff research scientists need PhD?

Staff research scientists typically hold a PhD in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or computer science. A doctoral degree is often required due to the advanced research skills and expertise needed for the role, though some positions may accept extensive industry experience in lieu of a PhD. Strong analytical skills, publication record, and experience with research tools are also important.

What cities are hiring for Staff Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Staff Research Scientist job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Staff Research Scientist jobs?

The top employers for Staff Research Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Staff Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Staff Research Scientist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Staff Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Senior Staff Research Scientist

The University of Oklahoma

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


University Of Oklahoma rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

165th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Senior Staff Research Scientist
Job no: 493204
Work type: Managerial
Location: Oklahoma City
Categories: Technology/Research
Pay Range: Targeted salary range of $78,800 - $104,400 dependent on qualifications and experience.
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, Standard/Fixed Schedule
Travel: Not required
Position Introduction:
The Department of Cell Biology is seeking a Senior Staff Research Scientist to join our team. The selected candidate will manage microscopy equipment in a core facility setting and oversee the distribution of microscopy resources for projects spanning days to weeks. In this position, you will utilize your knowledge of microscopic applications to support biomedical research. Preferred candidates will have experience in fluorescence microscopy and confocal microscopy. Familiar with super-resolution microscopy is also recommended. Beyond technical expertise, the candidate must be a motivated, innovative, and creative problem solver who is eager to learn, apply, and teach state-of-the-art microscopic techniques relevant to modern biomedical research. Because this role relies heavily on collaboration, the applicant must possess strong written and oral communication skills, a proven ability to work effectively within a team environment, and the capacity to interact professionally with faculty, staff, and students.
View full job description.
Required Education and Experience:
  • Ph.D. or M.D.
  • 36 months Postdoctoral Research Fellow experience plus 24 months experience as a professional Scientist in a research laboratory environment.

Required Certifications and Licenses:
None
Hiring Contingent Upon a Background Check: Yes
Advertised: 12 Jun 2026 Central Daylight Time
Applications close: 11 Sep 2026 Central Daylight Time
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About University of Oklahoma

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The University of Oklahoma is a prominent educational institution positioned in Norman, Oklahoma, US. Established in 1890, the university stakes a claim within the higher education industry and has a storied history of excellence in academics and research. Serving over 20,000 students, the university offers a wide range of programs across fields such as arts and sciences, business, engineering, international studies, and more. Emphasizing a dedication to unlocking potential, OU's mission is to provide the best possible educational experience to students through excellence in teaching, research, and creative activity. Notably, the institution has made significant strides in research with a focus on areas such as cancer, aerospace, and energy among others.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Norman, OK, US

Year founded

1890