Position
Salary

How much does a Research Director make?

The average salary for a Research Director is $150,844 per year in the US.

The role of a Research Director comes with a strong salary, reflecting the importance of the job. On average, a Research Director earns about $150,844 a year. This figure represents the midpoint of what most professionals in this role can expect to make.

Research Directors can see their earnings vary based on their experience and the industry they work in. The salary range can stretch from around $58,770 for those just starting to over $265,000 for the most experienced or those in highly specialized fields. This broad range highlights the potential for growth and the value placed on seasoned professionals in the research sector.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Research Director?

Boston, MA, offers some of the highest salaries for Research Director positions. With an average salary of $179,005, job seekers can find attractive opportunities in this city. Washington, DC, and Chicago, IL, also stand out with average salaries of $139,838 and $125,246, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Research Director jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $179,005 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $116,743.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $179,005
    In Boston, lead projects for renowned companies like Biogen and Charles River Laboratories. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of networking events. The competitive salary makes this a sought-after location.
    Find Research Director jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $139,838
    Work in Washington, DC, and collaborate with key organizations like the National Institutes of Health. The city's rich history and research opportunities provide a unique backdrop. Competitive salaries and benefits make this a top choice.
    Find Research Director jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $125,246
    Chicago offers a dynamic research environment with companies such as AbbVie and Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The city's vibrant culture enriches the work experience. Attractive salaries and a strong job market are significant benefits.
    Find Research Director jobs in Chicago, IL


  4. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $120,146
    In Richmond, engage with leading research firms like Altria and Dominion Energy. The city's friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to work. Competitive pay and a lower cost of living add to the appeal.
    Find Research Director jobs in Richmond, VA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $116,743
    Los Angeles provides a diverse research landscape with companies like USC and RAND Corporation. The city’s entertainment industry and lifestyle add unique benefits. Attractive salaries and a growing job market make it an attractive option.
    Find Research Director jobs in Los Angeles, CA

What are the best companies a Research Director can work for?

Bausch & Lomb offers the highest salaries for Research Directors, averaging around $208,500. Liberty Mutual Insurance provides a strong salary, typically close to $171,000. Parents Anonymous Inc and EAB also offer competitive pay, with averages around $106,500 and $101,944 respectively. These companies value research and often provide excellent benefits and career growth opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Research Director jobs, highlighting Bausch & Lomb with the highest at $208,500 and EAB with the lowest at $101,944.
  1. Bausch & Lomb
    Average Salary: $208,500
    Bausch & Lomb offers exciting opportunities for Research Directors. This global leader in eye health operates in many locations, including the USA, Canada, and Europe. The company seeks top talent to drive research and development for innovative eye care solutions.


  2. Liberty Mutual Insurance
    Average Salary: $171,000
    Liberty Mutual Insurance provides dynamic roles for Research Directors. They have a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company focuses on risk management and research to improve their insurance products and services.


  3. Parents Anonymous Inc
    Average Salary: $106,500
    Parents Anonymous Inc offers Research Director positions that focus on family support and counseling. The organization operates across the USA and Canada, helping families through peer support and research. They aim to improve the quality of life for families facing challenges.


  4. EAB
    Average Salary: $101,944
    EAB is a leading research and consulting firm focusing on higher education. They operate in the USA and internationally. EAB seeks Research Directors who can drive impactful research to help institutions succeed in a changing educational landscape.

How to earn more as a Research Director?

A Research Director often enjoys a rewarding career path with significant earning potential. Increasing your salary requires a blend of experience, education, and strategic career moves. By focusing on the right factors, job seekers can effectively boost their income. This article highlights key strategies that can help maximize earnings in this role.

One of the most direct ways to increase your salary is by gaining additional experience and skills. Research Directors with more years in the field and a track record of successful projects often command higher pay. Continuous professional development through workshops, certifications, and advanced degrees also adds to your value. Networking with industry leaders and staying updated on the latest research trends can further enhance your career prospects and earnings.

Another factor to consider is the type of industry you work in. Certain sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, technology, and finance, often offer higher salaries for Research Directors. Seeking opportunities in these high-paying industries can lead to significant financial gains. Additionally, consider relocating to regions with a higher cost of living, where salaries tend to be higher to match living expenses.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Research Director:

  • Experience and Skills: Build a strong portfolio of successful research projects.
  • Education: Pursue advanced degrees and certifications to enhance qualifications.
  • Industry: Work in high-paying sectors like pharmaceuticals and technology.
  • Networking: Connect with industry leaders to discover new opportunities.
  • Location: Consider relocating to areas with higher salaries.

Currently 46 Research Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Research Director in the US?

Learn what a Research Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Research Director today.
Position
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Research Director
46 Job Openings