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Research Fellow Job Description

What does a Research Fellow do?

A Research Fellow is an academic position responsible for conducting research projects in their area of expertise. They work within universities, research institutions or government agencies and their duties involve designing and implementing research projects, collecting and analyzing data, presenting research findings in academic journals, conferences or workshops, and writing grant applications to fund future research. Research Fellows also collaborate with colleagues, supervise students, and participate in outreach activities to disseminate their research results to a wider audience. They are expected to have strong academic qualifications and a deep understanding of the research field they work in.

Our Research Fellow job description includes the Research Fellow responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Research Fellow Example


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If you need an example job description for a Research Fellow download the one below, alternatively we have many other Marketing job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does a Research Fellow do?

A Research Fellow is a highly skilled academic position, typically based in a University or other higher education institution. The focus of the position is on research and knowledge transfer in a particular field of study. Research Fellows are expected to produce high quality publications, provide research and teaching support, and develop and promote research projects. They should also demonstrate a commitment to knowledge transfer and public engagement.

Research Fellow Role Purpose

The purpose of a Research Fellow role is to undertake research of the highest quality, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the relevant field. The role involves conducting independent research and collaborating with other academics, as well as contributing to the strategic development of the research group. Research Fellows are expected to produce high-quality research outputs, such as books, articles, conference papers and reports, and to disseminate these outputs to the wider academic and professional community. In addition, they may also be involved in teaching and supervising students, and providing support to other academics.

Research Fellow Role

A Research Fellow is a highly experienced academic, typically specialising in a specific field, who works to pursue research objectives and develop new knowledge. They are responsible for planning and carrying out research activities, writing and presenting research papers, and helping to train and mentor junior researchers. They are also expected to collaborate with other researchers and institutions to further their work.

Research Fellow Duties

  • Conduct research, develop ideas and devise experiments
  • Analyze data, draw conclusions and write up results
  • Contribute to publications, conferences and other academic activities
  • Keep up to date with developments in the field and attend relevant seminars
  • Assist in the training and supervision of students

Research Fellow Requirements

  • A PhD in a relevant scientific discipline
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Excellent organisational and communication skills

Research Fellow Skills

  • Strong scientific background
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Data analysis and problem solving
  • Ability to work independently

Research Fellow Personal Traits

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Highly organised

How to write a Research Fellow Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write a Research Fellow Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise a Research Fellow Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting a Research Fellow Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire a Research Fellow

Once you have selected your Job Description download it or convert it to a Job Advert. From here you can post/advertise your job across our network of job boards. If you wish to use the job description for a CV Template click through for advice and Convert to a CV

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