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Research and development scientist skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025
8 min read
Quoted experts
Katina Lillios,
Alexandra (Sasha) Ormond Ph.D.
Research and development scientist example skills
Below we've compiled a list of the most critical research and development scientist skills. We ranked the top skills for research and development scientists based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 7.5% of research and development scientist resumes contained r as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a research and development scientist needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 research and development scientist skills for your resume and career

1. R

R is a free software environment and a language used by programmers for statistical computing. The R programming language is famously used for data analysis by data scientists.

Here's how research and development scientists use r:
  • Implemented process control checks and QC testing methods, executed Gage R and R for new test methods.
  • Program SAS macro and R to analyze pesticide risk, ranking, and exposure.

2. Patients

Here's how research and development scientists use patients:
  • Determined through statistical analysis whether these mutations increase susceptibility or resistance of patients to cancer and overall/recurrence-free survival of patients.
  • Attended critical care committee meetings and worked with nutrition team on how to improve nutrition care for critically ill patients.

3. Data Analysis

Here's how research and development scientists use data analysis:
  • Developed software modules for pattern recognition software package to be distributed commercially for use in biological-data analysis.
  • Conducted statistical data analysis, identified assay criterion, and reviewed, wrote protocols/reports.

4. Python

Python is a widely-known programming language. It is an object-oriented and all-purpose, coding language that can be used for software development as well as web development.

Here's how research and development scientists use python:
  • Implemented execution process automation via Python and Bash scripting.
  • Contributed to the development of a distributed testing framework (in Python).

5. Technical Support

Technical support or tech support are the services provided by any hardware or software company to users. They help in solving the technical difficulties the customers face with their products or services. Moreover, the tech support employees maintain, manage, and repair the IT faults. They are also responsible for resolving the network problems, installing and configuring hardware and software.

Here's how research and development scientists use technical support:
  • Provided technical support for Laboratory Investigation Reports (LIR) and customer complaints helping the Quality Assurance Department with timely product disposition
  • Conducted international and domestic customer site visits for product installation and technical support.

6. C++

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used to create high-performing applications. It was invented as an extension to the C language. C++ lets the programmer have a high level of domination over memory and system resources. C++ is an object-oriented language that helps you implement real-time issues based on different data functions

Here's how research and development scientists use c++:
  • Conduct Monte Carlo simulation using C++ and MATLAB to identify the most sensitive and best-fit parameter ranges to meet customer requirements.
  • Developed data mining tool for NASA scientists and engineers Technologies: Java, C, C++, Linux, Swing

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7. HPLC

Here's how research and development scientists use hplc:
  • Coordinated installation and qualification of customized HPLC system to be used for successful development of topical cream product.
  • Performed method development and validation of dissolution method by HPLC.

8. Product Development

Product development is the complete procedure of creating a product from concept until release of the final product. Product development has many stages after which a product is released into the market. Identifying the need, creating the opportunity, conceptualizing a product, and providing a solution, all are different stages of product development.

Here's how research and development scientists use product development:
  • Designed, executed and automated DOE experiments for media and feed development using automated systems, accelerating product development.
  • Identified new business opportunities and established research partnerships between corporation and universities to accelerate product development.

9. Analytical Methods

An analytical method is a method used to determine the chemical or physical property of a substance. It is a procedure to determine the relationship between different variables. This method can be conducted by combining scientific methods with any kind of formal process to solve a problem or prove a fact.

Here's how research and development scientists use analytical methods:
  • Coordinated the development and validation of analytical methods of pharmaceutical, nutritional and OTC products for soft gels gelatin capsules.
  • Carried out analysis to assist in trouble-shooting problems associated with analytical methods and production process at the contractor manufacturing sites.

10. PowerPoint

Here's how research and development scientists use powerpoint:
  • Analyzed data, generated weekly/monthly reports, and prepared PowerPoint presentations.
  • Worked extensively in Excel and PowerPoint to analyze product usage data that helped with refining backlogs and QA requirements.

11. Laboratory Equipment

Here's how research and development scientists use laboratory equipment:
  • Set up laboratory equipment and instrumentation required for the synthesis and testing, and kept detailed documentation of experimental results.
  • Coordinated all union trades for testing and laboratory equipment fabrication for the entire electronics laboratory.

12. Method Development

Here's how research and development scientists use method development:
  • Presented proposal, data and method development findings at department/project meetings and external conferences.
  • Performed routine experimental protocols following established company SOP's/Protocols for method development and validation.

13. GMP

GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practice. It is a system that ensures that all products like food, beverages, and medicinal drugs that are produced comply with the quality standards. It helps in minimizing the risks and hazards that cannot be eliminated after the testing of final products.

Here's how research and development scientists use gmp:
  • Managed security configurations of multiple GMP equipment to ensure sensitive data is backed up and secure via active directory.
  • Performed laboratory qualification of reference standards, including controlled substances according to GMP requirements.

14. FDA

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a division of the US Department of Health and Human Services that regulates the production and sale of food, pharmaceutical products, medical equipment, and other consumer goods, as well as veterinary medicine. The FDA is now in charge of overseeing the manufacture of products like vaccines, allergy treatments, and beauty products.

Here's how research and development scientists use fda:
  • Performed research under ISO9001 certification, and produced marketing literature within FDA regulatory guidelines.
  • Provided leadership in aerosol automation area and responded to FDA methodological inquiries.

15. Java

Java is a widely-known programming language that was invented in 1995 and is owned by Oracle. It is a server-side language that was created to let app developers "write once, run anywhere". It is easy and simple to learn and use and is powerful, fast, and secure. This object-oriented programming language lets the code be reused that automatically lowers the development cost. Java is specially used for android apps, web and application servers, games, database connections, etc. This programming language is closely related to C++ making it easier for the users to switch between the two.

Here's how research and development scientists use java:
  • Completed requirements gathering and development on JAVA program incorporating natural language processing.
  • Designed and implemented a lightweight Genetic Algorithm library in Java.
top-skills

What skills help Research And Development Scientists find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on research and development scientist resumes?

Katina LilliosKatina Lillios LinkedIn profile

Professor, Department Chair, The University of Iowa

While the precise skills that are desired depend on the job, there are some that all graduates from an Anthropology program should work on developing. These include experience contributing to group projects, collaborating with diverse communities, strong communication and writing skills, versatility, and mastery of a specialized skill, such as GIS, a foreign language, statistics, and other digital technologies.

What soft skills should all research and development scientists possess?

Alexandra (Sasha) Ormond Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Chemistry, Director of Dual Degree Engineering, Meredith College

From what I've heard (from employers), companies look for employees that they can work with. I know that sounds silly, but companies want employees that are team players and work well with other individuals and in groups. These employees also need to work independently when asked to work on a project. They need to be organized, reliable, and trustworthy. Employees also need to be able to communicate well by writing and speaking. They must be able to follow directions.

What hard/technical skills are most important for research and development scientists?

Alexandra (Sasha) Ormond Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Chemistry, Director of Dual Degree Engineering, Meredith College

This one is tough because it depends on the position! I think what is valuable for a chemist is being knowledgeable of working with instrumentation such as chromatography and mass spectrometry. Employees that are likely more attractive for a job position than another person have had the independent experience of working with instruments and can troubleshoot problems. Employees need to be able to explain the data that they obtained from an experiment and describe what the data mean. (Data is a plural term!) Problem-solving and critical thinking is very important for scientists.

What research and development scientist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Nicole Browning Ph.D.Nicole Browning Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Associate Professor of Biology, Biology Coordinator, Brenau University

A gap year should be filled with efforts to gain hands-on experience in the specific job field the candidate is hoping to enter. This may include volunteer work, internships, shadowing, or research work. A great place to look for these opportunities is with faculty at your alma mater. Faculty are often looking for cheap (or free) labor from graduates in the form of TAs, research assistants, lab assistants, and so on. This can provide invaluable experience, make you more competitive in the job market, and allow the graduate with real-world experience to ensure this is the position (or not).

What type of skills will young research and development scientists need?

Dr. Douglas Capone Ph.D.Dr. Douglas Capone Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Professor, University of Southern California

In addition to the essential skill set of an oceanographic discipline (biological, chemical, physical or geological fields) - being adaptable, having a breadth of knowledge and ability to cross disciplinary boundaries and communication skills e.g., the ability to talk to regulators, policymakers, and the general public will all help.

What technical skills for a research and development scientist stand out to employers?

Dr. Joey Neilsen

Assistant Professor, Villanova University

I think programming skills and data analysis/statistics are especially valuable right now, while data science is so big. Our students take a year of Computational Physics in Python, and we integrate Python into some of our upper-level courses and labs as well. Our recent graduates, both in academia and the private sector, report using those skills on a regular basis. Two other skills that US Physics graduates report using regularly are technical problem solving and technical writing. This makes lots of sense from an employer perspective: you want to hire people who can identify and solve problems and then clearly explain the solution to your team. This is a great reason to let those lab reports shine!
Do you want to know more?
Read more about what experts have to say about research and development scientist

List of research and development scientist skills to add to your resume

Research and development scientist skills

The most important skills for a research and development scientist resume and required skills for a research and development scientist to have include:

  • R
  • Patients
  • Data Analysis
  • Python
  • Technical Support
  • C++
  • HPLC
  • Product Development
  • Analytical Methods
  • PowerPoint
  • Laboratory Equipment
  • Method Development
  • GMP
  • FDA
  • Java
  • Test Methods
  • Research Projects
  • Pharmaceutical Industry
  • Synthesis
  • Next-Generation Sequencing
  • GC
  • PCR
  • QC
  • DOE
  • Data Collection
  • Visualization
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Pilot Plant
  • Technical Reports
  • Process Validation
  • IR
  • Remote Sensing
  • Elisa
  • Excellent Interpersonal
  • GLP
  • Stability Studies
  • Extraction
  • Assay Development
  • RNA
  • Test Procedures
  • Formulation Development
  • NMR
  • QA
  • Dosage Forms
  • UV/Vis
  • SQL
  • Linux
  • Cell Lines

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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