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.
Senior Clinical Research Associate
$95K - $115K *
Advance your career by leading clinical research projects and ensuring compliance with timelines and standards. Collaborate with stakeholders and clinical sites to safeguard subjects' rights and data...
4 weeks ago
$500K+*
Unlock potential by leading an applied research team, setting priorities, and driving hands-on AI projects. Collaborate with customer labs to enhance model capabilities and deliver impactful research...
1 week ago
Research Scientist, ML Systems
$160K - $190K *
Unlock potential by re-engineering core ML systems for peak performance, combining deep expertise in HPC and parallel programming with novel algorithms to drive the future of quantitative research in...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Senior Research Scientist - Network Systems
$146K - $234K *
Transform complex challenges into innovative solutions by leveraging expertise in RF communications, machine learning, and data analytics to enhance cybersecurity and network research for government a...
Yesterday
Senior Research Scientist - Network Systems
$146K - $234K *
Transform the future of cybersecurity and networking by leveraging advanced RF communications and machine learning techniques to tackle complex challenges in government and commercial sectors...
Yesterday
$80K - $95K *
Champion research initiatives by coordinating activities and ensuring compliance with accreditation standards, while enhancing faculty output and managing funding opportunities for collaborative proje...
Reposted 5 days ago
Senior Scientist - Statistical Process Control (SPC) & Data Analytics
$110K - $130K *
Transform data into insights as you drive process excellence in cell therapy manufacturing. Collaborate across teams to enhance quality and efficiency through statistical analysis and automation, ensu...
5 days ago
Research Engineer - Data and Evaluation
$150K - $350K *
Transform the landscape of reinforcement learning by designing evaluations and environments that enhance model training and performance. Collaborate with researchers to identify and address model fail...
1 week ago
Senior Research Scientist, Quantum Demonstration Workflows, Quantum AI
$174K - $252K *
Unlock potential by pioneering quantum computing workflows, integrating theoretical insights with practical applications. Collaborate across teams to drive innovation and enhance quantum systems, shap...
1 week ago
Research Professional 5-Preclinical Research
$92K - $98K *
Join a team that's advancing neuroscience research through innovative experiments and leadership. This role involves designing complex studies, supervising lab personnel, and contributing to scientifi...
4 days ago
Senior Research Associate - Semiconductors
$100K - $150K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of equity research in the Semiconductor sector. Collaborate with senior analysts to develop insightful reports and models, driving impactful investment decisions...
4 days ago
$85K - $95K *
Accelerate progress at drug development by leading bioanalytical studies, optimizing methods, interpreting data, and collaborating with teams to enhance innovative therapies for patients...
Reposted yesterday
Senior Manager, Study Management
$95K - $115K *
Join a team that's dedicated to managing study activities in compliance with regulatory standards. Oversee a dynamic group of scientists, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality study support i...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $130K *
Drive impactful UX research initiatives that enhance enterprise software experiences. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify user needs and translate insights into actionable design recom...
2 weeks ago
$85K - $110K *
Drive impactful market research initiatives by leading diverse projects, managing client relationships, and mentoring junior researchers. Collaborate across teams to deliver actionable insights that s...
1 week ago
$94K - $130K *
Advance peptide process development by driving research, optimization, and compliance initiatives. Collaborate across teams to deliver innovative solutions for peptide manufacturing and expand capabil...
Reposted yesterday
Senior Scientist- Translational PKPD
$120K - $224K *
Elevate drug development by leading preclinical PKPD studies, analyzing data, and collaborating across departments to enhance biologics in our pipeline. Drive innovative research and ensure compliance...
2 weeks ago
Senior Technician, Laboratory Support
$76K - $96K *
Support engineering students and researchers by fabricating, assembling, and repairing specialized lab equipment. Provide technical guidance on CNC machining and ensure safety compliance in workshops...
1 week ago
$100K - $120K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing customer experiences through end-to-end research. You'll lead projects, collaborate with clients, and transform qualitative insights into actionable findings...
2 weeks ago
Research Engineer, Field Simulation
$110K - $130K *
Transform your career by creating computer simulations that predict compound impact on insect behavior under real field conditions. Collaborate with scientists to enhance models and guide effective ex...
3 weeks ago
Clinical Research Program Manager
$110K - $130K *
Drive clinical research operations for a multidisciplinary program focused on inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, ensuring rigorous execution of studies while collaborating with diverse teams to tra...
1 week ago
$153K - $265K *
Lead the development of innovative software solutions for National Security, focusing on complex algorithms, system integration, and mentoring. Collaborate with teams to enhance operational capabiliti...
2 weeks ago
$179K - $255K *
Drive innovation in eyecare by leading advanced research initiatives. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop solutions for unmet needs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and ind...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Lead the charge in managing complex environmental projects, ensuring technical accuracy and client satisfaction while developing staff and fostering business growth in a dynamic, safety-focused enviro...
1 week ago
Senior Research Associate , Automated Chemistry
$80K - $118K *
Join a team that's at the forefront of high-throughput Chemistry innovation, driving hands-on experimentation and automation. Contribute to critical projects using advanced technologies to impact scie...
Reposted 1 week 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.