Senior researchers lead and advance research programs, turning complex questions into rigorous studies and actionable insights. Browse vetted senior researcher opportunities on Ladders, including roles with salaries of $100,000 or more across industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, academia, and life sciences.
Responsibilities vary by discipline, but senior researchers commonly shape research agendas, design methodologies, analyze and interpret data, and communicate findings to technical and executive audiences. They may mentor research teams, manage projects and budgets, publish or present results, and partner with product, clinical, policy, or business teams to apply discoveries.
Employers often seek deep subject-matter expertise, strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, and a record of conducting high-quality research. Depending on the role, qualifications may include an advanced degree, experience with statistical analysis or specialized laboratory methods, proficiency with relevant research tools, and a history of publications, patents, or successful research programs. Clear writing, collaboration, project leadership, and ethical research practices are valuable across fields.
Compensation depends on industry, location, specialization, education, and scope of responsibility. Senior researcher roles can offer competitive salaries, particularly in sectors where advanced technical knowledge and research leadership are in demand. Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more, helping experienced candidates explore opportunities aligned with their expertise.
Search senior researcher jobs by specialty, location, and employer to identify roles that fit your career goals. Review each listing for its responsibilities and requirements, then tailor your application to highlight relevant research outcomes, leadership experience, and measurable impact.
$95K - $115K *
Lead the development of optimization models for workforce planning in a large-scale contact center. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance scheduling and resource allocation, ensuring oper...
Today
AI Research Scientist, MRS Knowledge
$160K - $200K *
Unlock potential by driving innovative machine learning research to enhance recommendation systems. Collaborate across teams to translate findings into impactful AI solutions, while mentoring peers an...
1 week ago
Research & Development Manager
$95K - $115K *
Join a dynamic team to lead R&D efforts in developing innovative sauces and beverages. Drive product discovery, formulation, and commercialization while ensuring quality and customer satisfaction in a...
3 weeks ago
$100K - $120K *
Unlock potential by designing and implementing optimization models for workforce planning and scheduling in a large-scale contact center environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhan...
Today
$104K - $186K *
Join a team that's advancing pediatric cancer research through innovative preclinical studies. Collaborate with experts to develop and oversee therapeutic testing, ensuring compliance and excellence i...
1 week ago
Research Scientist, Analytical Chemistry
$110K - $130K *
Lead the charge in analytical data quality, developing methods and standards for diverse chemistry. Drive automation and interpretation at scale, ensuring robust data for both models and customers whi...
2 weeks ago
$105K - $130K *
Transform product development by leading innovative research initiatives, mentoring junior scientists, and collaborating across teams to ensure consumer-focused solutions that meet safety and sustaina...
1 week ago
$120K - $145K *
Drive innovative AI projects that enhance business processes while owning the end-to-end execution from conceptualization to launch, balancing complexity and impact in a dynamic environment...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Senior Director - Artificial Intelligence/Super Intelligence
$260K - $290K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of AI across the enterprise, driving strategy, governance, and adoption. Your expertise will empower missions and enhance national security through innovative AI...
1 week ago
$122K - $175K *
Unlock the potential of cyber defense by leading advanced threat research initiatives. As a technical expert, you'll analyze adversary tactics, develop detection methodologies, and enhance operational...
3 weeks ago
$122K - $175K *
Empower your career as a Staff Threat Researcher, applying advanced methodologies to analyze and replicate cyber attacks. Collaborate with teams to enhance detection capabilities and drive operational...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join a team that's passionate about user insights and design innovative research strategies to enhance product understanding and decision-making. Lead comprehensive qualitative and quantitative studie...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$135K - $170K *
Join a team that's driving innovative clinical research across multiple regions, leading teams to ensure on-time deliverables and high-quality data management in complex trials. Support site managemen...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior Scientist, Materials Development
$95K - $115K *
Join a team that's pioneering innovative solid-form strategies for bRo5 molecules. Leverage your expertise in materials science to drive advanced screening approaches and collaborate across discipline...
3 weeks ago
Senior Research Economist - U.S. Health Policy
$166K - $203K *
Join a team that's tackling complex health policy issues through innovative research. Lead projects, mentor staff, and deliver actionable insights to clients while managing budgets and timelines in a...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Lead network engineering efforts to enhance tactical capabilities in air defense systems. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure secure information exchange and compliance across all phase...
2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Elevate progress at the forefront of medical-device manufacturing by leading the development of advanced inspection systems. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure quality and efficiency in...
4 days ago
Member of Technical Staff, Health Systems
$150K - $180K *
Shape the future of clinical workflows by leading product design and development for OpenEvidence, collaborating with health systems to create innovative solutions that enhance clinician experiences a...
1 week ago
Director of Research, Development, and Technical Services
$120K - $130K *
Redefine product innovation as a leader in chemical formulation, driving sustainable solutions and technical excellence across home and personal care sectors. Collaborate with teams to enhance product...
5 days ago
$85K - $100K *
Elevate your career by performing strategic analysis and developing plans for Civic and Justice projects. Collaborate with teams to secure funding and mentor staff while ensuring compliance with regul...
Today
Senior Scientist Single Cell Assay and Technology Development
$136K - $170K *
Drive innovation in single-cell assays for AI-driven drug discovery, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to develop scalable workflows and enhance molecular readouts, shaping the future of hig...
6 days ago
Senior II/Staff Mechatronics Engineer
$136K - $217K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of mechatronics innovation, collaborating with diverse teams to design and refine advanced electromechanical systems and robotics solutions, transforming ideas int...
Reposted 1 week ago
Senior Quantitative Researcher - CMMI Evaluations
$120K - $150K *
Join a team that's dedicated to advancing healthcare quality through rigorous evaluations and innovative research. Lead complex projects, foster collaboration, and drive strategic growth initiatives i...
2 weeks ago
Senior Quantitative Researcher - CMMI Evaluations
$120K - $150K *
Advance healthcare innovation by leading complex evaluations and business development for Medicare models. Collaborate with a diverse team to enhance quality, access, and cost-effectiveness in health...
2 weeks ago
Senior Quantitative Researcher - CMMI Evaluations
$120K - $150K *
Collaborate with a diverse team to lead complex evaluations of Medicare models, ensuring quality deliverables and fostering client relationships while driving strategic growth initiatives in healthcar...
2 weeks ago
What does a senior researcher do?
A senior researcher plans and leads research, selects appropriate methods, analyzes evidence, and communicates findings. Many also mentor colleagues, manage projects, and collaborate with teams that use research results.
What qualifications are typically required for senior researcher jobs?
Requirements depend on the field. Employers commonly look for substantial research experience, subject expertise, analytical skills, and sometimes a master's degree or PhD. Specialized methods, publications, or team leadership may also be required.
How much do senior researchers earn?
Pay varies by discipline, employer, location, and experience. Ladders features vetted professional roles paying $100,000 or more, including senior researcher opportunities when available.
Which industries hire senior researchers?
Senior researchers work in areas such as technology, life sciences, healthcare, finance, consulting, government, and academia. Specific job titles and responsibilities differ across industries.
How can I find senior researcher jobs paying $100,000 or more?
Browse senior researcher listings on Ladders and filter opportunities by relevant criteria such as location and specialty. Compare qualifications and responsibilities, and emphasize measurable research impact in your application.