Position
Salary

How much does a Research Fellow make?

The average salary for a Research Fellow is $66,137 per year in the US.

Becoming a Research Fellow often means engaging in exciting and impactful work. This role typically involves conducting studies, analyzing data, and sharing findings. On average, a Research Fellow can expect to earn about $66,137 per year. This figure represents the midpoint of earnings, showing the middle ground for most professionals in this field.

The salary for Research Fellows can vary based on experience and specific industry. For instance, those just starting out may earn closer to $40,000 annually. As they gain experience, salaries can increase to around $152,000 for more senior positions. This wide range highlights the potential for growth in this career path, making it a promising choice for those passionate about research and discovery.

View Research Fellow jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Research Fellow?

If you're seeking a Research Fellow position, consider cities where salaries tend to be higher. Boston, MA, Washington, DC, and Chicago, IL, offer some of the best average salaries. Boston tops the list, making it an attractive destination for many professionals. Boston, MA, boasts the highest average salary for Research Fellows, followed by Washington, DC, and Chicago, IL. These cities provide a range of opportunities in various research sectors, making them prime locations for career growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Research Fellow jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $118,544 and Baltimore, MD with the lowest at $57,987.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $118,544
    Boston offers a dynamic environment for research professionals. With top institutions like Harvard and MIT, opportunities abound. Engage in groundbreaking work and collaborate with leading experts.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $94,523
    In Washington, DC, a Research Fellow can work for influential organizations. Agencies like the NIH and the World Bank provide valuable experience. The city's rich history and vibrant culture enhance the work experience.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $82,240
    Chicago is home to numerous research centers and universities. Companies like Northwestern and the University of Chicago offer diverse projects. The city's diverse population provides unique research insights.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Chicago, IL


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $77,825
    Los Angeles offers a blend of academic and industry research opportunities. Institutions like UCLA and USC provide cutting-edge research. The entertainment industry also opens unique research avenues.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Winston-Salem, NC
    Average Salary: $74,747
    Winston-Salem has a growing research community. Organizations like Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center offer impactful projects. The city’s welcoming atmosphere makes it an attractive place to work.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Winston-Salem, NC


  6. Rochester, MN
    Average Salary: $70,908
    Rochester is known for its medical research. The Mayo Clinic provides significant opportunities for growth. The city’s focus on health and wellness creates a supportive research environment.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Rochester, MN


  7. Jacksonville, FL
    Average Salary: $68,534
    Jacksonville is emerging as a research hub. Companies like the University of North Florida offer promising projects. The city’s growing economy attracts talented researchers.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Jacksonville, FL


  8. Ann Arbor, MI
    Average Salary: $65,067
    Ann Arbor is a research-centric city. The University of Michigan provides numerous opportunities. The academic environment fosters collaboration and innovation.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Ann Arbor, MI


  9. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $63,340
    Portland offers a vibrant research scene. Institutions like Oregon Health & Science University provide excellent opportunities. The city’s focus on sustainability influences research directions.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Portland, OR


  10. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $57,987
    Baltimore has a rich research tradition. Johns Hopkins University offers extensive research possibilities. The city’s diverse community adds depth to research projects.
    Find Research Fellow jobs in Baltimore, MD

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

Atrium Health stands out for Research Fellow roles, offering an average salary of $75,257. Beth Israel Lahey Health follows closely, providing $72,701 annually. The Hospital for Special Surgery also ranks high, with an average salary of $71,361. These institutions demonstrate a commitment to attracting top talent in research. They value the contributions of Research Fellows, which reflects in their competitive compensation packages. Job seekers aiming for research careers may find these companies particularly appealing.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Research Fellow jobs, highlighting Atrium Health with the highest at $75,257 and University of Southampton with the lowest at $55,047.
  1. Atrium Health
    Average Salary: $75,257
    Atrium Health offers exciting Research Fellow jobs with a focus on innovative research. The company operates in various locations across North Carolina and South Carolina, providing diverse research opportunities.


  2. Beth Israel Lahey Health
    Average Salary: $72,701
    Beth Israel Lahey Health has a strong reputation for medical research. Research Fellows here work in Massachusetts, contributing to groundbreaking studies and patient care advancements.


  3. Hospital for Special Surgery
    Average Salary: $71,361
    The Hospital for Special Surgery is known for its commitment to musculoskeletal health. Research Fellows in this company, located in New York City, engage in cutting-edge research that improves patient outcomes.


  4. Mayo Clinic
    Average Salary: $70,451
    Mayo Clinic is a leader in medical research. Research Fellows work across several states, including Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona, collaborating on innovative research projects that impact global health.


  5. The University of Michigan
    Average Salary: $66,625
    The University of Michigan offers a dynamic environment for Research Fellows. Located in Michigan, the university provides a range of research opportunities, from clinical studies to theoretical research.


  6. UCL
    Average Salary: $64,153
    University College London (UCL) is known for its academic excellence. Research Fellows at UCL, based in London, engage in a variety of research projects, contributing to the academic community and beyond.


  7. University of Birmingham
    Average Salary: $58,903
    The University of Birmingham supports innovative research. Research Fellows here work in Birmingham, UK, contributing to research in various fields, from science to social sciences.


  8. University of Southampton
    Average Salary: $55,047
    The University of Southampton offers a vibrant research environment. Research Fellows in Southampton, UK, participate in a wide range of projects, promoting scientific discovery and innovation.

How to earn more as a Research Fellow?

Earning more as a Research Fellow involves a combination of skills, experience, and strategic choices. By focusing on specific areas, a Research Fellow can enhance their potential for higher earnings. Key strategies include advancing in one's academic career, gaining specialized skills, collaborating with top researchers, publishing in high-impact journals, and seeking diverse funding sources.

First, advancing in the academic career by obtaining higher degrees and certifications can lead to higher-paying positions. Skills in data analysis, programming, and laboratory techniques can also make a Research Fellow more valuable. Collaborating with leading researchers and contributing to groundbreaking studies can lead to higher compensation. Publishing in prestigious, high-impact journals can increase visibility and earning potential. Lastly, exploring diverse funding opportunities and grants can provide additional financial support and open doors to better-paying roles.

Consider these factors to increase earning potential:

  1. Pursue advanced degrees and certifications.
  2. Develop specialized skills in data analysis, programming, and lab techniques.
  3. Collaborate with leading researchers to contribute to major studies.
  4. Publish in high-impact, prestigious journals to increase visibility.
  5. Seek out diverse funding opportunities and grants for financial support.

Currently 300 Research Fellow job openings, nationwide.

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

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