Research Scientist
Designs and runs experiments to answer scientific questions.
A research scientist designs and conducts experiments, in academia, government, or industry, to answer specific scientific questions, then analyzes results and shares findings through papers, reports, or presentations. A typical day includes running experiments or analyzing data in the lab, reading recent research relevant to a project, and writing up methods and results.
The pace of research is often slower and less linear than people expect: experiments fail, hypotheses turn out wrong, and a meaningful discovery might take months or years of iterative work to reach.
Core tasks
- ✓Designing and conducting experiments
- ✓Analyzing and interpreting data
- ✓Reading and staying current on relevant research
- ✓Writing papers, reports, or grant proposals
- ✓Presenting findings at conferences or to stakeholders
- ✓Collaborating with other researchers
Tools & skills used
Typical entry paths
- →Varies by field, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Neuroscience, and similar majors, often followed by a graduate degree (many research scientist roles require a PhD)
Common misconceptions
- Most experiments don't work the first time, or at all, a large part of the job is troubleshooting and revising based on failed attempts.
- Many research scientist positions, especially in academia, require a PhD; a bachelor's degree alone typically leads to supporting roles like lab technician.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Research Scientist do?
Designs and runs experiments to answer scientific questions.
What are the core tasks of a Research Scientist?
Day to day, this typically includes: Designing and conducting experiments; Analyzing and interpreting data; Reading and staying current on relevant research.
What tools or skills does a Research Scientist use?
Common tools and skills for this role include Experimental design, Statistical analysis, Lab technique specific to the field, Scientific writing.
How do people typically become a Research Scientist?
Varies by field, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Neuroscience, and similar majors, often followed by a graduate degree (many research scientist roles require a PhD).
What's a common misconception about being a Research Scientist?
Most experiments don't work the first time, or at all, a large part of the job is troubleshooting and revising based on failed attempts.
What college majors lead to becoming a Research Scientist?
Majors that commonly lead here include Biology, Chemistry, Physics. A major shapes what you study, it isn't a guarantee of landing this specific role.
Printed from majoratlas.com/careers/research-scientist