Research Specialist Job Description

What is the job description of a Research Specialist? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Research Specialist? What does a Research Specialist do?

Job description of a Research Specialist

The Research Specialist designs, executes, and interprets research projects, and performs complex laboratory and data collection techniques.

This Research Specialist job description example includes the list of most important Research Specialist duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Research Specialist profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Research Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Research Specialist job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Developing objectives and designing research projects and proposals.
  • Formulating and conducting scientific experiments, performing data collection, and analyzing and evaluating test and research results.
  • Replicating, evaluating, and refining research strategies and approaches and recommending improvements, and testing, customizing, and implementing new methods and procedures.
  • Responding to research questions, troubleshooting problems, developing and writing advanced experimental protocols, and monitoring ongoing projects and proposing and implementing changes.
  • Proposing techniques to improve research quality and team productivity.
  • Reporting equipment problems and assisting with setting up new equipment.
  • Contributing to and writing research findings for publications, papers, presentations, grants, and other documents.
  • Assisting with grant and manuscript submissions.
  • Guiding, training, and advising junior researchers and students, and supporting senior research staff.
  • Developing and following standard operating procedures, and adhering to company policies and safety guidelines.

Research Specialist Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Research Specialist job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A Bachelor's degree in Science or related field.
  • x years' research related experience.
  • Computer literacy and strong mathematical, analytical, and research skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices, and methods.
  • Knowledge of scientific laboratory research techniques.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Research Specialist starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Research Specialist job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Research Specialist may also reference it in preparation for the interview.