Humanities Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern intellectual landscape, the spotlight on humanities researchers has never been more focused.

As the global society continues to evolve, the demand for critical thinkers who can investigate, interpret, and preserve our cultural and historical heritage grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a humanities researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of humanities research,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Humanities Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

A Humanities Researcher focuses on understanding human culture and behavior through various dimensions such as language, history, philosophy, and more.

They use a variety of research methods including qualitative, quantitative, and ethnographic to study and interpret the human experience.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Formulating and conducting original research projects
• Collecting, organizing, and analyzing data from various sources such as archives, books, and artifacts
• Publishing findings in research papers, articles, or books
• Presenting research results at conferences, public talks, and through other dissemination methods
• Contributing to the development of the humanities by exploring new areas, theories, or methods of investigation
• Applying for and managing research funding
• Collaborating with other researchers, academics, and institutions
• Teaching or lecturing on their area of expertise at universities or colleges
• Keeping up-to-date with developments in their field of study
• Providing advice and consultation to policy makers, organizations or communities based on research findings

 

Humanities Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an insightful and dedicated Humanities Researcher to join our team.

The successful candidate will conduct in-depth research on various topics related to humanities including literature, history, philosophy, religion, and the arts.

Humanities Researcher responsibilities include developing research methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, presenting findings in written and oral form, and contributing to the development of humanities theory and knowledge.

Our ideal candidate has a thorough knowledge of their chosen field, exhibits excellent analytical skills, and has a keen interest in expanding their understanding of human culture and society.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed research on various topics within the field of humanities
• Develop, implement, and evaluate research methodologies
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data using statistical tools
• Contribute to scholarly articles, reports, and other publications
• Present research findings at conferences, workshops, and other academic gatherings
• Collaborate with colleagues on research projects
• Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in the humanities field
• Apply for and manage research grants
• Tutor or lecture students as required

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Humanities Researcher or similar role
• PhD in a humanities discipline
• Strong knowledge of research methodologies and statistical analysis
• Excellent writing and presentation skills
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience in applying for and managing research grants
• Passion for deepening the understanding of human culture and society

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Work in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment
• Opportunity to contribute to the advancement of humanities knowledge

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Humanities Researcher
• Work Environment: University or research institution environment. Some travel may be required for academic conferences or field research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Department or Lead Researcher.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• 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 in our institution. 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 written work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Humanities Researcher Do?

A Humanities Researcher typically works in academic settings such as universities or research institutions, or they may work independently.

Some may also be employed by governmental bodies, nonprofit organizations, and even corporations seeking insights on cultural, ethical, or societal issues.

Their primary role involves conducting comprehensive research on a wide range of topics within the humanities disciplines, which may include literature, philosophy, history, sociology, and anthropology among others.

This research often involves extensive reading, critical analysis, and synthesis of information.

Humanities Researchers formulate research proposals, often securing funding for their projects.

They use a variety of methods including qualitative research, archival research, content analysis, and ethnographic observation to gather information.

They are responsible for analyzing their findings and making conclusions or recommendations based on their research.

They often present their findings in the form of written reports, articles, or books, and may present at conferences or seminars.

Humanities Researchers also contribute to the development of their field by reviewing the work of their peers, participating in academic debates, and often teaching or mentoring students.

They are often called upon to utilize their understanding of human culture, behavior, and societal trends to inform decisions and policies in various sectors.

 

Humanities Researcher Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Humanities Researcher should possess a range of skills and qualifications to conduct in-depth research, such as:

• Outstanding research abilities to conduct comprehensive and meticulous research in various areas of humanities.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of historical and contemporary issues in humanities.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills to interpret data, draw conclusions and propose theories.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present research findings effectively to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in utilizing digital resources and databases for research purposes.
• Ability to work independently or collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team, respecting and integrating diverse perspectives.
• High level of organization and planning skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of ethical research principles and guidelines.
• Doctorate or Master’s degree in humanities or related field is often required.

 

Humanities Researcher Experience Requirements

Humanities researchers typically have an educational background in the humanities, such as history, philosophy, literature, religion, or cultural studies.

Entry-level candidates may have a Bachelor’s degree in one of these disciplines with some experience in research often gained through university projects or internships.

Candidates with a Master’s degree in a humanities field can often demonstrate more advanced research skills.

These individuals typically have 2 to 3 years of experience in conducting research, whether through academic study or in a professional capacity.

For more senior roles, a PhD in a relevant humanities discipline is typically required.

These candidates will have a substantial amount of research experience, often more than 5 years, and may have published their work in academic journals or books.

They may also have experience leading research projects and teams, and developing and implementing research methodologies and analysis.

Aside from educational qualifications, humanities researchers should have strong analytical and critical thinking skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, and experience with research software and databases.

Some roles may require specialized knowledge or skills, such as fluency in a specific language, experience with archival research, or expertise in a particular historical period or cultural group.

 

Humanities Researcher Education and Training Requirements

Humanities Researchers typically require a bachelor’s degree in their field of interest within humanities such as history, literature, philosophy, cultural studies, or a related field.

These individuals often possess a strong background in research methods, critical analysis, and possess excellent writing skills.

Knowledge of a foreign language may also be beneficial, especially for those studying specific cultures or regions.

Many humanities researchers pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, which allows them to specialize in a certain area and gain more comprehensive research experience.

Often, these degrees culminate in a thesis or dissertation, which is an extensive, original research project.

Postgraduate fellowships or internships may also be sought for hands-on experience in the field.

These opportunities can provide exposure to archival work, curatorial practices, publishing, or academic writing, depending on the area of interest.

Beyond formal education, a humanities researcher must demonstrate a passion for their chosen subject, a dedication to uncovering new insights, and a commitment to contributing to academic discourse.

Some researchers may also choose to earn certifications in specific research methodologies or technologies.

While these are not typically required, they can demonstrate a researcher’s commitment to their professional development and expand their methodological toolkit.

 

Humanities Researcher Salary Expectations

A Humanities Researcher earns an average salary of $61,140 (USD) per year.

The salary may fluctuate depending on the researcher’s level of experience, educational background, area of research, and the institution or organization they are affiliated with.

Moreover, geographical location can also play a significant role in determining the salary of a Humanities Researcher.

 

Humanities Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Humanities Researcher need?

A Humanities Researcher needs strong analytical skills to interpret data and draw conclusions.

They must be detail-oriented to ensure the accuracy of their findings, and have excellent written and verbal communication skills to present their research in a clear and concise manner.

They should also possess organizational skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines, and critical thinking skills to solve complex problems and evaluate theories.

 

Do Humanities Researchers need a degree?

Yes, most Humanities Researchers require at least a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s or Ph.D. is often preferred or required, depending on the complexity of the research.

These degrees should be in a relevant field such as history, literature, philosophy, sociology, or cultural studies.

In addition to formal education, experience in conducting research and a strong portfolio of published work can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Humanities Researcher resume?

A Humanities Researcher’s resume should highlight their education, research experience, and any published works.

Look for evidence of strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.

Other important elements to consider are the candidate’s proficiency in research tools and methods, their ability to work independently, and any relevant language skills, as many Humanities Researchers work with sources in different languages.

 

What qualities make a good Humanities Researcher?

A good Humanities Researcher is curious and open-minded, with a passion for knowledge and understanding of human culture, history, and society.

They should be patient and persistent, as research can be a slow and meticulous process.

They should also have excellent attention to detail and be able to synthesize complex information into coherent and compelling arguments.

Finally, a good Humanities Researcher should be comfortable with uncertainty and able to navigate ambiguity, as answers in the humanities are often not black and white.

 

What is the work environment like for a Humanities Researcher?

The work environment for a Humanities Researcher can vary widely depending on their specific field and whether they work for a university, private research institute, or other organization.

Some spend much of their time in a quiet office or library setting, conducting research and writing.

Others may travel frequently to conduct fieldwork, visit archives, or attend conferences.

The work can be solitary, but also often involves collaboration with other researchers.

 

Conclusion

So there it is.

Today, we uncovered the deep layers that define a humanities researcher.

And guess what?

It’s not just about studying history and culture.

It’s about exploring human experiences, one piece of research at a time.

With our comprehensive humanities researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the leap.

But why limit yourself?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every piece of research contributes to the broader understanding of humanity.

Let’s uncover those experiences. Together.

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