Educational Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of academia, the role of educational researchers has never been more critical.

As education evolves, the demand for insightful minds who can investigate, enhance, and protect our educational systems grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an educational researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of educational research,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable educational researcher job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started right away.

Educational Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Educational Researchers conduct comprehensive research and analysis to contribute to the development of educational theories, practices, and policies.

They utilize various methodologies and tools to gather, analyze and interpret data related to education.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Designing and conducting research studies related to educational methods and policies
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify educational trends and issues
• Developing and testing hypotheses using appropriate research methods
• Collaborating with educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders to understand research needs
• Presenting research findings in a clear and concise manner to a variety of audiences
• Writing research papers, reports, and other publications to share research findings
• Applying for grants and funding for research projects
• Keeping up-to-date with developments in the field of education and research methodologies
• Advising on the implementation of research findings in educational practice and policy

 

Educational Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable and innovative Educational Researcher to contribute to the understanding and development of our educational practices and policies.

The role involves designing and conducting research studies, interpreting data, advising on changes and improvements, and presenting findings to the academic community and stakeholders.

Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, has a passion for education, and is adept at statistical analysis and research methodologies.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and evaluate qualitative and quantitative research projects.
• Formulate research methods and suggest procedures to achieve research objectives.
• Interpret, report, and present research findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Develop recommendations based on research findings to influence educational policies and practices.
• Collaborate with educators, administrators, and policymakers on research projects.
• Stay up-to-date with current research literature and educational trends.
• Write and submit research papers to academic journals.
• Participate in professional conferences to present research findings.

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Education or a related field.
• Proven experience as an Educational Researcher.
• Strong knowledge of research methods and statistical analysis.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Proficiency in data analysis software (SPSS, R, SAS or similar).

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Educational Researcher
• Work Environment: University or educational setting with potential for remote work. Some travel may be required for conferences or collaborations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Research or Dean of Education.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a sample of your research work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Educational Researcher Do?

An Educational Researcher is primarily responsible for conducting research on various aspects of education, including teaching methods, educational programs and policies, and the effectiveness of learning outcomes.

They use qualitative and quantitative research methods to gather and analyze data on students, teachers, schools and education systems.

This data can help educators understand how people learn and identify effective teaching methods and practices.

Educational Researchers also study issues such as student behavior, teacher performance, and the impacts of new technologies or policies in the classroom.

Their findings can help inform educational policy and guide the development of new curriculum and teaching methods.

Some Educational Researchers work in academia, teaching courses and supervising student research in addition to conducting their own studies.

Others may work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private research firms.

They often present their research findings at conferences and publish their work in scholarly journals.

They may also be asked to advise policymakers, educators, and administrators on the implications of their research for practice and policy.

In every setting, their work is crucial for improving the quality of education and ensuring that teaching methods and educational policies are grounded in solid research evidence.

 

Educational Researcher Qualifications and Skills

An effective educational researcher should possess the following skills and qualifications to conduct comprehensive research studies, analyze data, and provide insightful reports in the field of education:

• A deep understanding of research methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative, to design and conduct effective and reliable research studies.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex data, identify trends, and draw valid conclusions in the context of education.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present research findings clearly and persuasively, to both academic and non-academic audiences.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software such as SPSS, SAS or R to analyze data and generate meaningful results.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to overcome challenges encountered in research processes and data analysis.
• Time management skills to effectively manage and complete research projects within set deadlines.
• Good interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with other researchers, educators and stakeholders in the education sector.
• An advanced degree in education, educational research or a related field, often a PhD, is typically required for most educational researcher positions.

 

Educational Researcher Experience Requirements

Entry-level Educational Researchers often have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through internships or part-time roles in academic or research settings.

These professionals may also gain relevant experience through roles such as Teaching Assistant, Research Assistant or other education-related positions.

Candidates with 2 to 5 years of experience often develop their research skills and knowledge in entry-level Educational Researcher or similar roles.

They have typically been involved in several research projects, possibly in collaboration with experienced researchers or under their supervision.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have a proven track record of publishing their research findings in academic journals or presenting at academic conferences.

They may also have led research projects, mentored junior researchers and may be ready for a managerial or lead researcher position.

In addition to the practical experience, Educational Researchers often hold advanced degrees such as a master’s degree or Ph.D. in Education or a related field, which provides the theoretical knowledge necessary for this role.

 

Educational Researcher Education and Training Requirements

Educational Researchers generally need a master’s or doctorate degree in education, psychology, or a related field.

The specific focus may vary, but common areas of study include educational psychology, education policy and leadership, or curriculum and instruction.

Candidates should have a strong foundation in research methodology, statistics, and quantitative and qualitative analysis.

This knowledge is typically acquired through a combination of coursework and practical experience.

Many positions require Educational Researchers to have hands-on experience in an educational setting.

This could be as a teacher, school administrator, or in a research capacity.

Some positions may require specific certifications, such as the Certified Professional Researcher (CPR) certification, particularly for those wishing to work in higher education settings.

Like most fields, continuing education is important for Educational Researchers.

They often attend conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities to stay current with the latest research and trends in education.

Additionally, strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, as Educational Researchers often present their findings to a variety of audiences, including educators, policy makers, and the public.

 

Educational Researcher Salary Expectations

An Educational Researcher can expect to earn an average salary of $63,400 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary depending on factors like the level of education, years of experience in the field, the complexity of the research project, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Educational Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Educational Researcher need?

Educational Researchers should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data related to educational trends and issues.

They need excellent written and verbal communication skills to present research findings clearly to various audiences.

They also need to have good project management skills to coordinate multiple projects and meet deadlines.

 

Do Educational Researchers need a degree?

Yes, typically, an Educational Researcher requires at least a master’s degree in education, psychology, sociology, or a related field.

Many positions, especially those in academia, require a doctoral degree.

In addition to formal education, researchers often need experience in areas such as data analysis or educational program evaluation.

 

What should you look for in an Educational Researcher’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in relevant fields, with research experience being a huge asset.

The resume should also highlight strong analytical skills, experience with statistical software, and a history of published research or conference presentations.

Experience in the education sector is also crucial, whether in teaching, administration, or policy.

 

What qualities make a good Educational Researcher?

A good Educational Researcher is curious, detail-oriented, and has a deep understanding of educational systems and policies.

They are self-motivated, able to work independently, and can manage their time effectively.

Further, they possess empathy for students and a genuine passion for improving education.

 

What are the daily duties of an Educational Researcher?

On a typical day, an Educational Researcher may review literature related to their current research project, perform data collection and analysis, develop or adjust research methodologies, and write reports or academic papers.

They might also collaborate with other researchers or educators, present findings to stakeholders, or apply for research funding.

 

Is it difficult to hire Educational Researchers?

Finding a qualified Educational Researcher can be challenging because the role requires a unique blend of skills, including expertise in education and strong research abilities.

Furthermore, the candidate should have a passion for the educational field and the ability to interpret and apply research findings effectively.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the intricate realities of being an educational researcher.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about conducting studies.

It’s about shaping the future of education, one research project at a time.

Armed with our ready-to-use educational researcher job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to venture forth.

But why halt your journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating pinpoint-accurate listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every research project contributes to a broader educational landscape.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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