Position
Salary
A Research Fellow works in a variety of fields, from science to social studies. They explore new ideas, conduct experiments, and analyze data. Their work often leads to new discoveries and innovations. The average yearly salary for a Research Fellow is $72,841. This means most Research Fellows earn somewhere in this range each year.
Here is a look at how salaries for Research Fellows break down:

Boston, MA
Average Salary: $132,165
In Boston, you will join top-tier universities and research institutions. Companies like Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard offer many opportunities. The city’s rich academic environment makes it a hub for groundbreaking work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $95,516
Working in Washington, DC, positions you among top research institutions and government agencies. Places like NIH and The Brookings Institution offer diverse research opportunities. The city’s political environment adds a unique dimension to your work.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $80,764
Chicago provides a vibrant research scene with universities like the University of Chicago. The city’s diverse community and strong academic programs make it an excellent place for collaborative research. Northwestern and other institutions offer plenty of opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,507
Los Angeles offers a dynamic research environment with leading institutions such as UCLA and USC. The city’s entertainment industry also brings unique research opportunities. The diverse population provides rich data for social and cultural research.
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Winston-Salem, NC
Average Salary: $74,552
In Winston-Salem, you will find a growing research scene centered around institutions like Wake Forest University. The city's focus on innovation and health research provides many opportunities. The community’s support for education fosters a collaborative research environment.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $70,675
Rochester is home to the Mayo Clinic, one of the world’s top medical research centers. Working here means access to cutting-edge research in healthcare. The city’s strong academic and medical community makes it a great place for impactful research.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $68,145
Jacksonville offers a growing research scene with institutions like the University of North Florida. The city’s diverse industries provide varied research opportunities. The supportive community and emerging tech sector add to its appeal.
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Ann Arbor, MI
Average Salary: $64,374
Ann Arbor is a center for research, thanks to the University of Michigan. The city’s academic environment and commitment to innovation offer many opportunities. The strong network of researchers and institutions fosters a collaborative atmosphere.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $63,340
Portland provides a unique research environment with institutions like Oregon Health & Science University. The city’s focus on sustainability and innovation offers many opportunities. The vibrant community and progressive policies enhance the research experience.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $56,345
In Baltimore, you can work with top institutions like Johns Hopkins University. The city’s rich history in medical research provides many opportunities. The diverse community and strong academic institutions create a supportive research environment.
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Atrium Health
Average Salary: $75,161
Atrium Health offers Research Fellow jobs focusing on groundbreaking medical research. They operate in the Southeastern U.S., primarily in North Carolina and South Carolina. Atrium Health provides a supportive environment where Research Fellows can make impactful contributions.
Mayo Clinic
Average Salary: $69,960
Mayo Clinic is renowned for its cutting-edge medical research. They operate in multiple states, including Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona. Research Fellows at Mayo Clinic have access to top-notch facilities and resources to support their work. The environment encourages innovation and collaboration.
The University of Michigan
Average Salary: $66,404
The University of Michigan offers Research Fellow positions that focus on diverse research areas. They operate in Michigan, with a strong presence in Ann Arbor. Research Fellows here benefit from a vibrant academic setting and access to a wide range of research opportunities.
A Research Fellow can boost their earnings by focusing on specific areas that attract higher pay. This role often involves extensive research and analysis, and enhancing skills in these areas can lead to higher-paying positions. One key factor is gaining experience in specialized fields. Research in areas such as biotechnology, data science, or environmental science often comes with higher salaries. Collaborating with top institutions or leading organizations in these fields can also increase earning potential.
Another factor is publishing research in high-impact journals. These publications increase visibility and can lead to higher-paying job offers. Attending and presenting at major conferences also helps. Networking with other professionals in the field can open up opportunities for better-paying positions. Securing grants and funding for research projects can also lead to higher salaries. Funding often comes with competitive compensation packages. Building a strong professional reputation can also help Research Fellows earn more.