Nurse Researcher

Nurse researchers conduct scientific research about various subjects related to medical care. Their research is primarily designed to improve health, nutrition, hospice care, chronic pain management, delivery services, medical technology, etc.

Nurse researchers decide questions and subjects to explore, organize research projects, collect and evaluate data, and report research conclusions. Since research grants are often necessary to conduct research, they also prepare research proposals. Some researchers teach at universities and colleges, submit articles to academic publications, and sit on academic boards.

Many nurse researchers begin as clinical research monitors, clinical data coordinators, and research assistants. Researchers promoted to principle investigators manage projects and assume accountability for problems during research.

Nurse researchers frequently collaborate with engineers, nutritionists, doctors, pharmacists, and other scientists during research projects.

Working Conditions

Nurse researchers are employed at commercial laboratories, non-profit organizations, private companies, universities, and various healthcare organizations.

Since research projects are frequently funded individually, nurse researchers often work on multiple projects a year or until funding freezes up. If this happens, they must find other jobs or projects.

Working in research can be repetitive and mundane, but researchers make discoveries that improve healthcare delivery and personal health.

Nurse researchers should work to develop good writing skills since they're frequently required to submit grant and funding proposals and write academic articles. Additionally, they should also work to develop good public speaking skills since they often speak at meetings and academic seminars.

Career Training and Education

Most nurse researchers are registered nurses with bachelor's degrees. They also typically have nursing experience. After acquiring some work experience, most nurse researchers return to school to earn doctorate degrees since advanced research jobs are usually filled by researchers with them. As a result, many nursing schools are developing flexible programs, so students can return to school and continue working.

Nurse researchers should be inquisitive, creative, and problem-solvers. They must also be able to effectively conduct qualitative and quantitative research.