Research specialists conduct experiments and case studies, record findings, and perform maintenance tasks in various industries. Requirements include a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree, research skills, computer skills, and communication skills. Lab or research experience is also important. Excellent communication, computer, writing, and critical thinking skills are needed, as well as organization and comfort with large amounts of data.
A research specialist studies in a chosen field, conducts experiments and case studies, and then records their findings. He or she also performs other maintenance tasks in the laboratory and is experienced with various research methodologies. Research specialists usually study science, social science, marketing or medicine and work in many industries, including hospitals, laboratories, corporations, marketing companies and universities. To become a research expert, your specific needs will depend on the field you want to research. Requirements typically include a bachelor’s or master’s degree, excellent research skills, computer skills, and strong communication skills.
While some research jobs allow for a degree in communications or journalism, the degree needed to become a research specialist is usually related to the subject you want to research. While market researchers can major in marketing or business administration, those who want to work in a hospital or laboratory can earn a degree in biology, chemistry, psychology, or medicine. Those looking to work at a university may need a master’s or doctoral degree to conduct research, and many master’s programs include a class in research methodology that provides skills you may find useful as a research specialist. A class in statistics or data modeling is also beneficial in most fields.
Lab or research experience is important, and you want to get as much of that experience as possible during college so you’re prepared to become a research major after college. Most science degrees include lab classes, but you may need to do research outside of school if your degree doesn’t include a research-based component, especially if you’re earning a business or communications degree. If you can’t arrange any lab experiences with your college, you can look into an internship or possibly volunteer at a local company. You should still check with your college before deciding on an internship, because some degree programs allow you to earn class credit for the experience.
Although many research specialists work independently, they need excellent written and oral communication skills to be able to coordinate their findings with others. Additional requirements to become a research expert include the ability to conduct research using a computer, knowledge of productivity software, excellent writing and editing skills, and the ability to think critically and analyze information. In order to be able to keep track of all the information gained in their studies and classify it correctly, research specialists need to be highly organized and comfortable working with large amounts of data.
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