How to Become a Research Assistant?

There are many types of research assistants and a slew of employers. You'll choose from just about any field, from medical research centers and universities to think tank corporations. Therefore, your first step is to focus your pursuit on a specific area of expertise.

Start by narrowing down your choices to the fields that you're most interested in and qualified for, based on your previous undergraduate study. For example, a person in this role can find work in:

• Engineering.
• Economics.
• Education.
• Law.
• Marketing
• Health care.
• Other sciences, like psychology and sociology

There are some soft skills that all successful research assistants possess, including:

• Capability to follow instructions.
• Attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Aptitude for critical thinking.
• Ability to work with numerous personality types.
• Planning, scheduling, and time management skills.
• Strong reading comprehension skills.
• Computer and technology savvy.
• Highly self-motivated.
• Ability to work independently.

Academic research assistant positions offer eligible high school and graduate degree students the opportunity to assist senior educators in their work. Secure an academic research position by:

• Speaking to your professors or school administrators.
• Contacting other schools in your area.
• Using job boards to search for research assistant openings.
• Utilizing social media to expand your hunt.

This role comes with a variety of benefits, including:

• Help to get into a good college.
• The chance to earn college credits.
• The potential to collect a small salary.
• A big boost in your employable skill set.
• Networking opportunities with head hunters, industry professionals, and other decisions makers.
• A focused career path in education.

Most employers require research assistant candidates to obtain their graduate degrees or enroll in an advanced academic program. In addition to any educational qualifications, firms may require you to demonstrate a thorough understanding of your chosen subject and research skills, like:

• Data collection and analysis.
• Understanding of quality and safety control standards.
• Effective interviewing skills.
• Data entry experience.
• Ability to prepare accurate reports and express findings.

A professional research assistant is a far different role than your student position while in school. A for-profit environment is more results-oriented, driven, and competitive than academic research. Once you grow in this role, your path may lead to management positions where you'll oversee your own projects or other operations roles in your particular research field. First, however, prepare to spend the majority of your time:

• Doing clerical work.
• Researching related materials.
• Serving as a professional assistant.