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The differences between research programmers and senior programmer analysts can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-8 years to become a research programmer, becoming a senior programmer analyst takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a senior programmer analyst has an average salary of $95,174, which is higher than the $80,823 average annual salary of a research programmer.
The top three skills for a research programmer include python, research projects and java. The most important skills for a senior programmer analyst are java, C++, and sql server.
| Research Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Yearly salary | $80,823 | $95,174 |
| Hourly rate | $38.86 | $45.76 |
| Growth rate | -7% | 9% |
| Number of jobs | 139,392 | 164,022 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Average age | 47 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 8 | 6 |
Research programmers are in charge of the overall programming activities on a vital project or various smaller projects that may include monitoring and directing the performance of assigned staff. They utilize research methods like digital modeling, simulation, programming, and database manipulation, as well as the evaluation of quantitative data. Also, they are responsible for determining and selecting project opportunities, managing coverage, and completing project commitments. Qualifications for the job may include a bachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, economics, engineering, or computer science. Also, relevant professional experience is essential.
A senior programmer/analyst is responsible for developing and sustaining databases and software applications to achieve business requirements. The professional performs development duties such as coding and testing these applications. The core skills that the job requires include familiarity with applicable data privacy practices and laws, a keen eye for details, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Also, the job requires a college diploma or university degree in the field of computer science, information systems, or software engineering.
Research programmers and senior programmer analysts have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Research Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Average salary | $80,823 | $95,174 |
| Salary range | Between $61,000 And $105,000 | Between $73,000 And $122,000 |
| Highest paying City | Oakland, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | California |
| Best paying company | Mayo Clinic | AEA Investors |
| Best paying industry | Professional | Retail |
There are a few differences between a research programmer and a senior programmer analyst in terms of educational background:
| Research Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 68% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between research programmers' and senior programmer analysts' demographics:
| Research Programmer | Senior Programmer Analyst | |
| Average age | 47 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 78.3% Female, 21.7% | Male, 75.5% Female, 24.5% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.1% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 7.2% Asian, 25.3% White, 58.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 10.4% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 11.6% Asian, 14.8% White, 57.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 8% |