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Research scientist skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

Verónica Gutiérrez Ph.D.,

Alexandra (Sasha) Ormond Ph.D.

The hard skills a research scientist will need for their job depend largely on the scientific field and industry one works in. In general, one of the most important hard skills a research scientist can possess is data analysis because data analytics helps to make sense of scientific research. It's also important for research scientists to have the hard skill of knowledge of procedures, and the potential ability to train others on these procedures.

When it comes to soft skills, research scientists should have a strong sense of curiosity above all else. Research scientists need to be able to record and keep track of data, so organizational skills are also crucial.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical research scientist skills. We ranked the top skills for research scientists based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 10.7% of research scientist resumes contained python as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a research scientist needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 research scientist skills for your resume and career

1. 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 scientists use python:

Created open-source data analysis and visualization package in Python.
Coded a class that integrated OpenGL with Python and C++ to simulate chaotically dynamic system.

2. Data Analysis

Here's how research scientists use data analysis:

Worked extensively with data analysis/interpretation and presentation.
Coordinated associated test-planning, developed test planning documents, conducted operational tests, conducted data analysis, and developed reporting documents.

3. Patients

Here's how research scientists use patients:

Participated in laboratory and clinical research designed to provide clinically-relevant insights into blood cell formation and function in cancer patients.
Developed a computer-based patient model to identify high risk, early intervention patients and reduce medical costs.

4. 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 scientists use c++:

Implemented C++ capabilities to simulate the effective mechanical behavior of rubber-metal composites within an in-house Finite Element software.
Performed extensive waveform analysis using C++ to characterize light sensor performance that led to defining detector design requirements.

5. Research Projects

Here's how research scientists use research projects:

Dedicated to continued enhancement of leadership competencies, problem solving, independent evaluation of scientific data for basic research projects.
Identified and established novel clinical collaborations with academic centers, researchers and physicians that could support research projects.

6. Chemistry

Chemistry is the branch of science that tells us about the composition, properties, and structure of elements and compounds. The processes these elements undergo and how they undergo change all come under the branch of chemistry.

Here's how research scientists use chemistry:

Process Chemistry Safety Steward/Safety Mentor/E-Team member
Specialized in synthetic methodology, chemistry optimization, and the development of new synthetic pathways to complex molecular targets.

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7. 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 scientists use java:

Developed the camera take detection service via java and integrated it into an automatic video object annotation system utilizing social cues.
Research Scientist Worked with the Java Tools research group designing advanced interactive programming and visualization tools; explored agent-based component architectures.

8. Molecular Biology

Here's how research scientists use molecular biology:

Created/established molecular biology laboratory within department.
Design and execute molecular biology and biochemistry studies to support project objectives with minimal direct supervision from Research Director.

9. Data Collection

Data collection means to analyze and collect all the necessary information. It helps in carrying out research and in storing important and necessary information. The most important goal of data collection is to gather the information that is rich and accurate for statistical analysis.

Here's how research scientists use data collection:

Identified and determined methods, procedures, and techniques to support research design; identified and recommended data collection methodology.
Participate in data collection, including coordination of study sites, administration of research instruments, and conducting qualitative interviews.

10. Cell Culture

Here's how research scientists use cell culture:

Conducted isolation and preparation of primary cells including T-cell and performed primary cell culture for developing personalized therapies.
Created and implemented standard operating procedures on mammalian cell culture and viral antigen production.

11. TensorFlow

Here's how research scientists use tensorflow:

Project: Convolutional Neural Network for document classification (2016.10-2017.1) - Develop a convolutional neural network sentence classifier using Tensorflow.

12. Visualization

Here's how research scientists use visualization:

Research includes developing robust and adaptive systems for computer-aided analysis and visualization with machine learning and image processing/computer vision approaches.
Manage the development of innovative visualization and concept mapping of contested environment analysis challenges and analyst skill sets.

13. Excellent Interpersonal

Here's how research scientists use excellent interpersonal:

Utilized excellent interpersonal and empathetic skills while interacting with a diverse population, creating a comfortable environment.
Team oriented professional with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

14. Laboratory Equipment

Here's how research scientists use laboratory equipment:

Managed maintenance/upgrades of laboratory equipment.
Supervised and trained post-doctorate fellows, students and lab assistants to perform general laboratory techniques and operate laboratory equipment.

15. Experimental Design

Experimental design is the process of researching in an objective and controlled manner to maximize precision and draw specific conclusions about a hypothesis statement. It is a concept used to efficiently organize, conduct, and interpret the results of experiments to ensure that as much useful information as possible is obtained by conducting a small number of trials. This minimizes the effects of the variables to increase the reliability of the results.

Here's how research scientists use experimental design:

Managed investigations from incident to CAPA closure including experimental design, collaboration with team members, and organizing and reporting results.
Contributed scientific expertise to critical projects, manage the day-to-day operations of those initiatives and perform advanced analysis and experimental design.

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What skills help Research 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 scientist resumes?

Verónica Gutiérrez Ph.D.

Director of Undergraduate Research, Director of Bridge and Launch Programs, Associate Professor of Latin American History, Azusa Pacific University

I urge my students never to underestimate the power of a beautiful, perfectly formatted resume or C.V. The document itself can testify to the applicant's creativity, organizational and analytical skills, as well as demonstrate the precision of one's prose. As for skills listed on the document, I would think that experience with online platforms and the ability to collaborate virtually with someone the applicant has not met in person--and might never meet--would be appealing, given the new reality of remote work environments. Specific skills history majors possess that would stand out on a resume would be the ability to critically analyze conflicting accounts, to approach moments in time from a long, historical view, to bear in mind historical context at all times, to consider diverse perspectives, and to remain culturally sensitive in a globalized world.

What soft skills should all research 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 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 scientist skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Neal Palmer Ph.D.

Chair, Associate Professor, Christian Brothers University

The answer to that question likely won't change from pre- to post-pandemic. Southern cities such as Nashville and Memphis were booming before the pandemic, and that will likely continue. These are good places to find jobs because the cost of living is relatively low, there are vibrant culture and entertainment, and there is not as much college-educated competition for jobs as in larger cities.

What type of skills will young research scientists need?

Dr. Douglas Capone Ph.D.

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 scientist stand out to employers?

Dr. Bobby Burkes

Interim Department Head/Professor, Grambling State University

Technical skills in addition to having a full and thorough understanding of your area of expertise will be the ability to communicate interactively via computational systems and other communication platforms. The ability to communicate (convey and express ideas) in a direct and remote setting is becoming an essential asset. The ability interact with and possibly develop simulations of experimental design and process flow paths are also technical skills that are in demand in most industries.

Do you want to know more?

List of research scientist skills to add to your resume

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

Python
Data Analysis
Patients
C++
Research Projects
Chemistry
Java
Molecular Biology
Data Collection
Cell Culture
TensorFlow
Visualization
Excellent Interpersonal
Laboratory Equipment
Experimental Design
CRISPR

R
RNA
Statistical Analysis
Flow Cytometry
Prototyping
Product Development
Synthesis
SQL
Research Findings
Technical Reports
Extraction
Drug Discovery
Next-Generation Sequencing
Elisa
PowerPoint
Method Development

Analytical Methods
FDA
Adaptive
Math
Distributed Computing
PI
Clinical Trials
Cell-Based Assays
HPLC
DNA
SAS
Western Blotting
Technical Support
Emerging Technologies
Biomarkers

Updated January 8, 2025

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.

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