Research Historian Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of historical research and interpretation, the role of research historians has never been more significant.

As we delve deeper into the annals of time, the demand for skilled professionals who can unravel, analyze, and preserve our historical context grows ever stronger.

But let’s go beyond the surface: What’s truly expected from a research historian?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of historical research,

You’ve landed in the right place.

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

Let’s dive straight into it.

Research Historian Duties and Responsibilities

Research Historians study, interpret, and write about the past.

They use a variety of archival and digital sources to gather data, including government records, newspapers, photographs, interviews, films, and unpublished manuscripts.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conduct detailed research on specific historical events, periods, or themes
• Review and interpret historical documents and archival materials
• Prepare research reports and present findings to a variety of audiences
• Analyze historical data and make interpretations based on their findings
• Write articles, papers, and books on their findings and theories
• Collaborate with other historians or professionals in related fields
• Preserve, catalog, and archive historical documents and artifacts
• Teach or lecture on history topics in academic or public settings
• Provide historical context for current events or cultural phenomena

 

Research Historian Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Research Historian to conduct thorough historical studies and research.

The responsibilities of the Research Historian include gathering historical data from various sources, including archives, books, and artifacts, analyzing and interpreting historical information to determine its authenticity and significance, and presenting findings in a clear and cohesive manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough historical research using various sources and methods.
• Analyze and interpret historical data.
• Assess the authenticity and relative significance of historical data.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations of findings.
• Participate in peer reviews of research findings.
• Collaborate with other historians, archivists, and professionals on research projects.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest research methodologies and tools.
• Assist in the preservation of historical artifacts.

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in History or a related field.
• Proven experience as a research historian or in a similar role.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Familiarity with various research methodologies and tools.
• Passion for history and historical research.

 

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Flexible schedule

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Research Historian
• Work Environment: Office or library setting with occasional visits to archives, museums, or historical sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Research or Senior Research Historian.
• 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 or part-time, based on necessity and candidate preference.
• 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 and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Research Historian Do?

Research Historians are professionals who investigate and interpret the past.

They often work for educational institutions, museums, libraries, government agencies, or as self-employed individuals.

They conduct in-depth research using various sources including books, newspapers, letters, diaries, photos, and digital archives.

Their work often involves validating the authenticity of such historical documents and artifacts.

Research Historians study specific periods, geographical areas or phenomena, and create a cohesive narrative based on their findings.

They utilize their research to contribute to historical knowledge, providing fresh perspectives or uncovering previously unknown information.

They may also be responsible for writing detailed reports, articles, or books presenting their findings.

Many engage in public speaking, delivering lectures or presentations about their research.

In academic settings, Research Historians may also teach history courses, guiding students in their own historical research projects.

In museums and libraries, they can work on curating exhibitions, presenting historical information in an engaging manner for the public.

They may also assist in preserving and digitizing historical materials.

 

Research Historian Qualifications and Skills

A Research Historian should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job requirements, including:

• Academic qualifications in History or a related field to possess a strong foundation in historical study and research methodologies.
• Strong research skills to carry out in-depth investigation into past events, time periods, or figures, using a variety of sources such as archives, books, and artifacts.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills to interpret historical data and assess its relevance and reliability.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in recording and reporting historical information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively share findings in reports, articles, books, or presentations.
• Ability to use digital tools and databases for historical research, which may include digitized archives, historical databases, and bibliographic management software.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate with other historians, archaeologists, and professionals, and to engage with the public in presentations or lectures.
• Passion and curiosity about history to motivate in-depth study and to inspire others with the results of their research.

 

Research Historian Experience Requirements

Research Historians often start their career journey with a bachelor’s degree in History or a related field.

They may also need to pursue a master’s degree or even a doctorate, depending on the complexity of the research they wish to undertake.

Many historians gain their early experience through internships or part-time roles at museums, historical societies, or other cultural organizations.

These roles often involve assisting with research, cataloging artifacts, or helping to create exhibits.

Entry-level candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience working in a research-oriented role, often gathered through academic research projects, internships or volunteer work.

Research Historians with more than 3 years of experience often have a good understanding of research methodology and historical analysis, developed through a combination of academic studies and practical research work.

They may also have had their work published in academic journals or presented at conferences.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have specialized knowledge in a specific area of history and may have led research projects or authored significant historical works.

They might also have experience in curating exhibitions, giving public talks, or teaching history.

These experienced historians may be ready for senior research positions, curator roles, or academic positions that involve both research and teaching.

 

Research Historian Education and Training Requirements

Research Historians typically hold at least a bachelor’s degree in history or a related field.

In-depth knowledge in specific historical periods, events, or cultural phenomena is important, along with a strong understanding of research methodologies and historiography.

Many research historians also have a master’s degree or Ph.D. in history, which is often required for positions in academia or high-level research roles.

These advanced degrees typically involve a significant amount of original research, resulting in a thesis or dissertation.

Training in languages relevant to the area of study may also be necessary depending on the focus of their research.

While not always required, certification from associations like the American Historical Association can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to their profession and ongoing professional development.

It’s also important for Research Historians to have strong written and verbal communication skills, as they often need to present their findings in reports, articles, books, and lectures.

Continuous learning and staying updated with recent studies and findings in their area of interest is crucial for Research Historians.

This can be achieved through attending seminars, conferences, and workshops, or by reading relevant academic journals and publications.

 

Research Historian Salary Expectations

A Research Historian earns an average salary of $59,120 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may differ based on factors such as level of education, years of experience in the field, area of specialization, and geographical location.

 

Research Historian Job Description FAQs

What skills does a research historian need?

Research historians should possess strong analytical skills to scrutinize and interpret historical data and documents.

They should have excellent research skills to accurately compile information from various sources.

Good communication and writing skills are essential for presenting historical findings to various audiences.

Attention to detail and critical thinking skills are crucial to sift through voluminous data and historical documents.

 

Do research historians need a degree?

Yes, research historians typically need a bachelor’s degree in history, although many also have a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in a specific area of history.

These advanced degrees can also provide opportunities for specialized research and can lead to more senior positions within museums, universities, or research institutions.

 

What should you look for in a research historian’s resume?

Firstly, look for the level of education and the area of historical specialization.

Experience in research, whether through academic projects, internships or professional work, is also essential.

Skills such as foreign language proficiency can be beneficial, particularly if the job involves researching non-English sources.

Publications or presentations at academic conferences can also indicate a commitment to the field and a capacity to disseminate historical findings effectively.

 

What qualities make a good research historian?

A good research historian is curious, always eager to delve into the depths of history to uncover new insights.

They should have a strong commitment to accuracy and a keen eye for detail.

Patience and perseverance are also essential, as research can be a long and painstaking process.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial to present findings clearly and engagingly.

 

Is it difficult to hire research historians?

Hiring a research historian can be challenging because it requires finding a candidate with the right blend of academic qualifications, research experience, and specific historical knowledge.

The pool of candidates can be quite specialized, particularly for roles requiring expertise in a specific historical period or region.

Therefore, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the job requirements and to assess candidates’ skills and experience carefully.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have excavated the true essence of being a research historian.

Guess what?

It’s not just about reading old manuscripts.

It’s about unfolding the past to shape our understanding of the future, one historical fact at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive research historian job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating detailed job postings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every historical fact is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s unravel that past. Together.

How to Become a Research Historian (Complete Guide)

The Dreaded Desk: The Most Hated Jobs in the Office

The Ultimate Unwind: Jobs Where Stress is Not in the Job Description

The AI Job Invasion: What Careers Are at Risk?

Proof Against AI: Professions Where Humans are Indispensable