What Does a Research Technologist Do?

A research technologist generally aids scientists in work on specific types of research projects. In general, a technologist refers to someone involved in working on investigative studies about technology. The types of projects that research technologists help with typically involve highly sophisticated applications in certain fields, for example, in medicine, or in specifically funded theoretical or clinical research.

Most research technologists are entry-level workers who simply provide additional monitoring for technology in research projects. They may evaluate outcomes as recorded, and put these into modeling software to parse them for eventual understanding of results. They may label or identify specific results of research projects, or assist in optimizing the project space by cleaning or re-arranging items. They will typically learn to understand how a specific technology is used, and help in the process of delivering results to higher-level scientists. For example, a research technologist in a radiology department will often be familiar with the radiology equipment, such as x-ray or MRI machines, and how these provide test results.

One prime example of common research technologist jobs is in the medical field. Research technologists may help provide assistance with medical equipment in radiology, oncology, pediatric or geriatric research, or research in other aspects of the medical field. They will often be trained to identify very specific outcomes from a range of medical equipment, and their work will contribute to analyzing the use of this equipment in a broader medical context.

In many corporate research and development departments, research technologists are considered some of the front line staff for project development. They may help out with a broad range of initiatives, again, recording outcomes for helping with logistical issues around a research project. They typically will not be involved in interpreting the end results of research, since that kind of work usually falls to those in leadership roles. The research technologist may have various levels or responsibility and authorization for projects according to the specific role planned out by those in charge of staffing.

A research technologist may be required to have various kinds of degrees such as an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in a specific kind of technology or science. Other qualifications for these types of jobs include clinical or lab experience. These professionals can also learn on the job, gaining experience in an entry-level role before ascending into higher-level research and development careers.