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If you'd like to view other job boards and read some advice on how to apply for post-graduate research positions in psychology, see this helpful resource .

You should also check out PREDOC , or Pathways to Research and Doctoral Careers, a consortium site with job postings all over the country for recent graduates looking for pre-doctoral work!

Please note:  These postings have not been approved or reviewed by the Department. They are unsolicited, and posted for your convenience.

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Psychology Research Jobs – Research Psychologists & Psychology Research Assistants

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What’s in this guide?

What is research psychology, what is a research psychologist, what is a psychology research assistant, where do they work, how to become a psychology research assistant, how to become a research psychologist, research psychology salaries.

By psychologyjobs.com Staff Writer

Research psychology is the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes through the use of research methods and empirical data. It involves investigating various aspects of human behavior, including cognition, perception, emotion, motivation, social behavior, personality, and psychopathology, among others.

The primary goal of research psychology is to increase our understanding of human behavior and mental processes, as well as to develop interventions and treatments to improve people’s lives. Research psychologists use a variety of research methods, including experiments, surveys, observational studies, and other techniques to gather data and test theories.

Research psychology has a wide range of applications, including the development of therapies for mental health disorders, the study of the effects of different environmental and social factors on behavior, and the design of interventions to improve cognitive and behavioral performance in various domains. It is an important field of study for anyone interested in understanding human behavior and mental processes.

Within this sphere there are, broadly speaking, two types of job available;  research psychologist  and  psychology research assistant.

A research psychologist specializes in the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. They are trained to design and conduct experiments, surveys, and other types of studies in order to collect data and test theories about human behavior.

To become a research psychologist, you need as a minimum a  master’s degree  and more typically a  doctoral degree in psychology . In addition to completing a doctoral degree, research psychologists may also need to obtain licensure or certification to practice in their state, particularly if they plan to work with clients or patients.

Here are the key areas of focus for a research psychologist:

• Designing and conducting research studies:  designing and implementing research studies to investigate various aspects of human behavior and mental processes. They may use a variety of research methods, such as experiments, surveys, or observational studies, to collect data and test theories.
• Analyzing data:  analyzing the data they collect to draw conclusions about human behavior and mental processes. They use statistical analysis and other techniques to identify patterns and relationships in the data.
• Reporting research findings:  communicating their research findings to other professionals in the field, as well as to the general public. They may write research articles for academic journals or present their findings at conferences or other events.
• Ethical considerations:  following ethical guidelines when conducting research, including obtaining informed consent from participants, protecting their privacy and confidentiality, and minimizing any potential harm or discomfort to participants.
• Collaborating with others:  collaborate with other professionals, such as clinicians, educators, and policymakers, to apply their research findings to real-world problems. They may work as part of a research team or as consultants to other professionals.

Here is what your daily schedule as a research psychologist might look like:

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Check and respond to emails, review research literature relevant to current projects

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Design and plan an upcoming research study, review and analyze data from a previous study

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Break

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Meet with research team to discuss ongoing projects, review progress, and plan next steps

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Conduct research participant interviews or experiments, record data

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Analyze research data, update research documentation and records

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Attend a departmental meeting or seminar to learn about the latest research findings in the field

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Write a research article for a peer-reviewed journal or work on a grant proposal

A psychology research assistant is someone who works under the supervision of a research psychologist to assist with research projects.

To become a research assistant, it can be helpful to have a  degree in psychology  or a related field, but it is not always a requirement. Some research assistant positions may only require a high school diploma or an  associate’s degree , while others may require a  bachelor’s  or even a  master’s degree .

Here are the key responsibilities of a psychology research assistant:

• Supporting research activities:  This may involve assisting with study design, data collection, data management, and data analysis.
• Recruiting participants:  recruiting study participants through various means such as online recruitment, telephone, or face-to-face contact.
• Conducting literature reviews:  assist in conducting literature reviews to help researchers identify existing research on a topic and inform their research questions.
• Administering surveys and assessments:  responsible for administering surveys and assessments to study participants, either in-person or online.
• Data entry and management:  responsible for entering data into a computer program, organizing data sets, or managing research databases.
• Assisting with ethical considerations:  assist in ensuring ethical considerations are met during the research process, including obtaining informed consent from participants, protecting their privacy and confidentiality, and minimizing any potential harm or discomfort to participants.
• Supporting research dissemination:  assist in disseminating research findings through academic publications, presentations, or other means.

Here is an example daily schedule of a psychology research assistant:

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Check and respond to emails, review literature relevant to current projects

10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Assist with recruitment efforts, such as posting flyers or sending emails to potential study participants

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Conduct participant interviews or administer surveys, record data

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Manage research databases

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Conduct literature reviews to help researchers identify existing research on a topic and inform their research questions

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Meet with research team to discuss ongoing projects, review progress, and plan next steps

• Universities and research institutions:  Many research psychologists also teach psychology in addition to their research duties.
• Government agencies:  employed by government agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to conduct research related to public health or other government priorities.
• Private research firms:  Some research psychologists and research assistants may work for private research firms that conduct research on behalf of clients, such as pharmaceutical companies or marketing firms.
• Non-profit organizations:  Research psychologists and research assistants may also be employed by non-profit organizations that conduct research related to social or environmental issues.
• Hospitals and clinics:  Research psychologists and research assistants may also work in hospitals and clinics, conducting research related to mental health disorders or other health issues.
• Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent:  Most research assistant positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field:  While not always required, having a  bachelor’s degree in psychology  or a related field can be beneficial for securing a research assistant position. This can provide you with a strong foundation in research methods, statistics, and psychology.
• Gain relevant experience:  Many research assistant positions require previous research experience, which can be obtained through internships, volunteer work, or research assistantships while in college.
• Develop necessary skills and qualifications:  Research assistant positions require specific skills and qualifications, such as proficiency in Microsoft Office and statistical software, attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Developing these skills through coursework or relevant work experience can help you to be a competitive candidate for these positions.
• Search for research assistant positions : Research assistant positions can be  found through PsychologyJobs.com , university career centers, and professional networking sites. You may also consider reaching out directly to research institutions or labs to inquire about potential opportunities.

Becoming a research psychologist requires a more significant investment of time and effort.

• Earn a bachelor’s degree:  The first step to becoming a research psychologist is to  earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology  or a related field.
• Earn a master’s degree:  many doctoral programs require a  master’s degree in psychology  or a related field.
• Obtain a doctoral degree:  Research psychologists typically hold a  doctoral degree in psychology , such as a PhD or a PsyD. These programs typically take 5-7 years to complete and involve coursework, research, and clinical experience.
• Gain research experience:  Research experience is essential for becoming a research psychologist. You can gain research experience through  internships , research assistantships, or working as a research coordinator.
• Obtain licensure or certification:  Depending on the state where you plan to work, you may need to obtain licensure to practice as a psychologist.  Licensure requirements vary , but typically involve completing supervised clinical experience, and  passing the EPPP licensing exam .
• Find a job:  You can search for job opportunities  through PsychologyJobs.com , professional networking sites, or contacting potential employers directly.

See also;  how to become a psychologist .

The median annual wage for research assistants in psychology is $49,850

The median annual wage for research psychologists is $79,000

Both figures sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

For more detailed insights visit our  research psychologist salary guide .

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How to Become a Research Psychologist

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

Why Become a Research Psychologist

What do research psychologists do, where do research psychologists work, research psychology careers.

What do you do if you love psychology but have no interest in working in mental health? Fortunately, psychology is a very diverse field, and there are plenty of opportunities. One that you might consider is becoming a research psychologist.

Consider the following question from a reader:

" I love psychology, which is why I'm currently working on my bachelor's degree in psychology. I don't want to work in mental health, so my ultimate plan is to become a researcher. While I know that this means I will probably need to go to graduate school, I'm not quite sure exactly where to begin. What type of psychology degree do I need if I want to work in research?"

At a Glance

What do you do if you love psychology but don't want to become a therapist or work in mental health? You might consider becoming a research psychologist. These professionals conduct research and may work in various settings, including universities, research labs, the military, government agencies, and private businesses.

This scenario is not at all uncommon in psychology. Many students love the subject, yet are not at all interested in working in mental health settings. Experimental fields are great options for people who are fascinated by psychology and enjoy performing research.

As a psychology student , you've probably already gotten a taste of just how diverse the field can be. This can be a great thing because it allows for so many different career paths and options, but it can also be confusing for students as they struggle to select an educational path.

Just like many other areas of psychology , becoming a research psychologist is not a "one size fits all" career. There are actually many different degrees that you could potentially pursue.

Start by taking into account what type of research you want to perform and what specific topics interest you the most.

In order to decide if this field is right for you, it is important to first understand exactly what these professionals do:

• Also known as experimental psychologists , research psychologists study a broad range of human and animal behavior.
• They design and conduct experiments exploring how people act, think, behave, interact, learn, feel, and perform under different conditions.
• They also design studies and evaluate research for flaws and bias.
• This can encompass an enormous range of topics, including memory , attention, cognition, decision-making, perception, and just about any psychological topic you can think of!

If you enjoy research and still want to work in mental health, there are also mental health professionals who perform research and conduct studies in clinical settings.

Educational backgrounds and requirements for experimental psychologists can vary depending upon where you want to work.

In most cases, you will start by earning a bachelor's degree in psychology. Some students may then choose to earn a master's, but many will go on to receive a doctorate degree.

Bachelor's Degree

Many students interested in becoming research psychologists begin with a bachelor's in psychology . However, some come from a background in a related area such as social work or even from an entirely unrelated degree area altogether.

Remember, it is possible to switch to psychology for graduate school , even if your undergraduate degree is in an unrelated subject.

Master's Degree

In some cases, students might then choose to pursue a master's degree in experimental psychology. However, it is important to note that job opportunities are generally more limited with a master's degree, which is why many opt to instead go on to earn a doctorate degree in psychology .

Doctorate Degree

While you might think you are limited to earning a PhD in experimental psychology, there are actually many different options that you might opt to pursue.

For example, if you are interested in studying the human brain, you might earn a degree focused on neuropsychology. Have an active interest in social behavior? Then, you might want to consider a doctorate in social psychology .

How to Get Started

While you might not be exactly sure about what specialty you want to pursue, you can now do plenty of things to prepare for your future as a research psychologist . Start by taking as many undergraduate courses in research methods , statistics , and experimental design as possible.

Sign up for research opportunities through your school's psychology department and consider signing up as a research assistant. It's a great way to gain valuable experience while earning college credits.

As you can see, research is something that plays a significant role in virtually every field of psychology . Your goal now is to determine which particular specialty area interests you the most and exactly where you might want to work someday.

Research psychologists are employed in a wide range of sectors, including private research firms, universities, corporations, the military, and government agencies.

So what kind of jobs will you be able to get as a research psychologist? While there are many different options, a few that you might consider include:

College Professor

Many research psychologists work at colleges and universities, teaching undergraduate and graduate students and conducting research.

Research Analyst

A research analyst evaluates data that has been collected. This career involves performing statistical analyses and managing data to ensure it is collected, recorded, and analyzed properly.

Research Scientist

A research scientist conducted grant-funded research. They are often the lead investigators of a study and are responsible for hiring assistants, managing projects, designing experiments, writing journal articles, and sharing the results of their experiments.

If you enjoy research and aren't interested in working in the field of mental health, a career as a research psychologist might be a great choice for you. To enter this field, you should focus on earning an undergraduate degree in psychology before going to graduate school to get your doctorate. Taking coursework in statistics and research methodology can help, but you should also take advantage of any opportunity to participate in research.

Bishop DV. The psychology of experimental psychologists: Overcoming cognitive constraints to improve research: The 47th Sir Frederic Bartlett Lecture .  Q J Exp Psychol (Hove) . 2020;73(1):1-19. doi:10.1177/1747021819886519

Smith KV, Thew GR. Conducting research in clinical psychology practice: Barriers, facilitators, and recommendations .  Br J Clin Psychol . 2017;56(3):347-356. doi:10.1111/bjc.12142

Scholtz SE, de Klerk W, de Beer LT. The use of research methods in psychological research: A systematised review .  Front Res Metr Anal . 2020;5:1. doi:10.3389/frma.2020.00001

American Psychological Association.  Pursuing a Career in Experimental Psychology . Updated March 2014.

The Princeton Review.  Experimental Psychology .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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Opportunities at NIMH

There are a wide range of opportunities available at NIMH.

Extramural Research Program (ERP) careers are scientific research positions that support research grants and contracts across the country through the extramural research programs.

Intramural Research Program (IRP) careers are scientific research or clinical positions in the internal research division of NIMH that may involve lab work or patient care. Over 40 research groups at NIMH conduct basic neuroscience research and clinical investigations of mental illnesses, brain function, and behavior.

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• Health Scientist Administrator (Program Officer) – Genomics Research Branch (GRB)

Intramural Research Program Opportunities

• Clinical Psychologist (Contractor) – Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Phenotyping Service (NBPS)
• Contractor Behavioral Data Scientist/Research Psychologist – Section on Developmental Neurogenomics (SDN)
• Staff Scientist 1 – Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology (LMCN)
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Research Opportunities

For Research Experience Seekers:

If you are looking for research positions in the field of psychology, then you have come to the right place! Below you will find a spreadsheet where researchers in the Department of Psychology and beyond advertise their most recent research position openings. Positions vary in their research topics, eligibility, compensation, and responsibilities. To find the perfect one for you, you can use the filter function in the spreadsheet. 

How to Use the Link: 

Click on the “Filter views” button

• “Create new filter view”
• Some popular filters include “Area”, “Compensation”, and “End Date for This Recruitment”

Position “Listing” Link

Tips for Getting Positions

• Once you have found the right position(s), you may directly contact the researcher(s) using the “Contact” information listed on the form.
• Sign up for the research position opening listserv ( psych-research-op [at] stanford.edu ( psych-research-op[at]stanford[dot]edu ) ) to receive notifications of new position openings. 
• We encourage everyone from any socio-demographic background to participate in and conduct research! For more information, please refer to the departmental Diversity Statement .
• Should I get involved in research? : A collection of interviews from current and former undergraduate/postgraduate/postdoctoral researchers, research staff, and faculty members about why early involvement in research is important.
• How to get involved in research? : A collection of tips and tricks for more successful research position applications.

For Research Position Recruiter:

If you are a researcher hoping to advertise the position openings in your group, you can fill in the forms below. Your postings will be immediately available to interested research experience seekers. While the positions do not need to be in the Department of Psychology, please note that most research experience seekers are looking for research experience related to psychology and neuroscience (broadly defined).

• You are more than welcome to make multiple postings. 
• If you made a mistake in the posting, you can edit your response in the form using the link (a red box that says “Edit response”)  in the automatically generated email.
• Postings will be removed after the indicated “End Date for This Recruitment”, but please feel free to repost, if needed.

Position “Posting” Link

Tips for Posting Opportunities

• Please keep the application process equal and inclusive. For more information, please refer to the departmental Diversity Statement .
• Prompt replies to applicants are encouraged upon receiving their application and keeping applicants informed of the interview/lab visit schedules.

Essential Qualifications for Psychology Professor Jobs: What You Need to Know

Discover the essential qualifications for psychology professor jobs. Learn about education, teaching, research, and expertise needed for this rewarding career.

So, you’re dreaming of becoming a psychology professor? Awesome! Imagine diving into the human mind and sharing your love for psychology. Sounds thrilling, right?

Think about influencing the future generation of psychologists. Envision conducting groundbreaking research. See yourself diving deep into the mysteries of the human mind. 

Advanced degree in psychology

To become a psychology professor, an advanced degree is crucial. A Master’s degree might be the minimum requirement for some positions.

Also, most universities prefer PhD candidates. Yet, it may take 5–7 years and include intensive coursework and original research.

Here, students must complete a dissertation. This is a significant research project that contributes to the field of psychology. Plus, it enhances your understanding and makes you a competitive candidate.

Relevant teaching experience

Gaining teaching experience is vital for aspiring psychology professors. Here are the most common types to consider:

Graduate teaching assistantships

These positions involve assisting a professor with course-related tasks. Duties may include:

• Leading discussion sections
• Giving lectures

This experience is invaluable for understanding classroom dynamics and instructional techniques.

Adjunct lecturer positions

Adjunct lecturers are part-time instructors who teach one or more courses per semester. This role provides hands-on experience in designing and delivering course material.

Plus, they also engage with students in a classroom setting.

Online teaching

With the rise of digital education, online teaching has become increasingly common. This experience aids in mastering virtual teaching tools and engaging students online.

Workshop and seminar facilitation

Leading workshops or seminars on specialised psychology topics counts as teaching experience. These informal settings improve presentation skills and clarify complex ideas.

Publications in reputable journals

Start by conducting original research. Your work should address important questions in psychology. Ensure your research is thorough and well-documented.

Once completed, draft a clear and concise manuscript. Follow the guidelines provided by your target journal.

The publication process can take time, but it’s worth it! Publishing in a reputable journal highlights your expertise and credibility.

Plus, it opens doors for collaboration and funding opportunities. So aim to be a consistent contributor to your field.

Expertise in specialised areas of psychology

Developing expertise in a specific area of psychology is crucial. These specialisations can include:

• Clinical psychology. Clinical psychology focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. It involves working with individuals, families, and groups to improve mental health outcomes.
• Cognitive psychology. Cognitive psychology studies mental processes. It explores how people perceive, think, and remember. Researchers in this field conduct experiments to understand brain functions.
• Developmental psychology. Developmental psychology examines human growth and change across the lifespan. This field studies physical, cognitive, and social development. Researchers often focus on how childhood experiences shape adult behaviours. This way, they can help individuals and families improve their well-being.
• Social psychology. Social psychology looks at how people affect and influence one another. It studies group dynamics,  social perception, and social interaction. This field helps understand behaviours like conformity, aggression, and altruism. Plus, it can aid in creating solutions to social issues.

Strong research experience

Strong research experience demonstrates your ability to investigate complex questions. Start early by engaging in research projects during your undergraduate studies.

Work with faculty members to gain insights and hands-on experience. Focus on a specific topic and conduct in-depth studies. This will help you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. 

Also, consider attending and presenting at conferences. This will help you gain exposure,  receive feedback from experts, and establish connections.  With this, your research portfolio will stand out to potential employers.

Effective communication skills

Effective communication skills enable clear delivery of complex concepts. Here’s a breakdown of what you need:

• Clear and concise language. Use simple words and avoid jargon when possible. This ensures students understand the material.
• Active listening. Make sure to pay attention to student feedback. This shows you value their input, helping you tailor your teaching methods.
• Non-verbal communication. Maintain eye contact and use gestures to emphasise points. This keeps students engaged and helps with information retention.
• Flexibility. Be open to adapting your teaching methods to different learning styles. This will help you reach a wider range of students. With this, you can craft an inclusive classroom environment.
• Written communication. Write clearly and use bullet points for key concepts. This helps in crafting comprehensible reading materials.
• Public speaking. Practise your speaking skills and ensure a confident tone. This makes your lectures compelling and engaging for students.
• Empathy and patience. Always show empathy and be patient with student questions. This fosters a supportive learning environment.

Proficiency in use of educational technology

Incorporating technology into teaching is becoming increasingly important. Familiarise yourself with educational tools and platforms such as:

• Online learning management systems
• Virtual classrooms
• Presentation software
• Interactive quizzes and games

This will help you deliver effective lessons in online or blended learning environments. Plus, staying updated with tech trends makes you a valuable asset to any university.

Strong ethical foundation

Being a psychology professor also requires having a strong ethical foundation. Some key principles include:

• Confidentiality
• Informed consent
• Professional boundaries

These factors will ensure your credibility and set an example for future psychologists. To land your ideal position, head over to PsychologyJobs.com . This way, you can explore the opportunities available and start building your career.

Networking and professional connections

Building a strong professional network can enhance your career prospects. To achieve this, you can attend psychology conferences, join academic societies, and take part in online forums.

Also, collaborating with others can lead to shared resources and mentorship. Plus, networking also helps you stay informed about job openings. This can also provide valuable recommendations from colleagues in the field.

Effective strategies for securing psychology professor jobs

Landing one of the best psychology professor jobs takes dedication. Be sure to focus on building your qualifications and gaining as much experience as possible. Your efforts will pay off.

Are you ready to start your journey? Search for open positions today and apply with confidence.

Dennis Relojo-Howell   is the managing director of  Psychreg .

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Research Assistant I

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• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s PhD. programs (the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872). The 40 academic departments and more than 30 centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

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An entry-level Forensic Psychologist with less than 1 year experience can expect to earn an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $60,951 based on 35 salaries. An early career Forensic Psychologist with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation of $76,330 based on 69 salaries. …Read more

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Forensic psychologists are often licensed psychologists that have chosen to specialize in the forensic concentration. They often have a doctorate in counseling or forensic psychology. Forensic psychologists work in varied environments, which many include courts, prisons, mental hospitals, private facilities, and government agencies. Working mostly in an office, the job is more mental than physical.

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Choosing a Career

• Jan 9, 2024
• 14 min read

An Essential Guide to Finding the Right Career in 2024

O, right career, right career. Wherefore art thou, right career?

Natasha Serafimovska

Career and Future of Work Expert

Reviewed by Chris Leitch

Finding the  right career path  can be an exciting (albeit daunting) process that can influence all aspects of your life. While your first line of thought might be to choose a  profession that is easy and that pays well , you also need to consider other factors like your lifestyle, personality and interests — all of which can inform your career choice and how happy you will be with it down the line.

A 2020 Gallup study found that only  36% of the US workforce  was actively engaged at work, while two-thirds were partially or actively disengaged. These are staggering figures that have massive implications both for businesses and individuals alike. Feeling disengaged with your career can have adverse effects on your professional success and your health and wellbeing.

Regardless whether you’re  fresh out of college  or you’re considering a  career change , giving your career choice serious consideration can make a big difference in your overall feeling of success and happiness in life.

Within this guide, we will share with you 15 vital steps on how to find the right career path and start making your first moves.

1. Take a career test

Think of choosing a career like a jigsaw puzzle. Many pieces need to fit nicely together to build a complete picture of who you are as a professional. You need to consider several factors such as your personality, natural talents, interests, lifestyle and existing skill set. It can be hard to identify all of these by yourself; that’s where  career testing  comes in.

Career tests are a great way to sift through the noise and uncover your true talents and traits. Our thoughts and opinions can be subjective and flawed, making it difficult for us to understand what we want to do in life. Therefore, these tests can help you see yourself in a more objective light and take informed decisions about your career.

Psychometric testing analyzes different facets of your personhood, including your  aptitude , cognitive abilities and personality, and uses this data to measure your suitability for various roles and working environments.

For example, our very own six-part assessment over at  CareerHunter  uses a sophisticated algorithm to see how users match up against 200+ career paths. Once you complete all six tests, you receive a personalized report that provides you with suitable career options that best fit your talents and personality.

While some of your matches may not have considered before, you can rest assured that the options you receive are a good fit for you.

2. Identify what’s important to you

As mentioned, there are a few factors to consider when choosing your career. Rather than letting salary be the determining factor for your career choice, think about what else you would value within a profession.

Specific jobs, like being a professor, confer a great status but not a high income. Others, like being a lawyer or a doctor, pay well, but they also require long or unpredictable working hours. Other roles, such as entrepreneurship, can mean lots of excitement and creative control but can also be an unstable source of income.

Whatever your choice, make sure to select a career that aligns with your values and expectations, as it can have a significant impact on how happy and satisfied you will be with your career in the long run.

3. Do trial jobs

You might think trial jobs are challenging to come by, but that’s not necessarily true. In her  TEDx Talk , Emma Rosen, a work happiness expert, explains how she trialed 25 jobs before turning 25. She tried anything from more conventional jobs like property development and interior design to really niche options like working in a police dog unit and alpaca farming.

How do you get a trial job? Just ask for it. Rather than applying through job ads, where the employer is probably looking for someone long term, why not reach out to businesses, introduce yourself and tell them what you’re trying to do? They might not have an urgent need for another interior designer, but if you reach out and explain your situation, they might give you a few weeks or a month to trial the job.

Job trials are an excellent way to disqualify career options that might sound appealing but won’t work in the long run. As an employee, you might be on probation for a few months when you get a new job, so why not put the jobs themselves on probation and see if you actually like them?

And if the employers and companies you contact don’t have the budget to hire you as temporary staff, you could also look for job shadowing , volunteering and internship options, or work part time if your schedule allows it!

4. Take action

When we’re unsure about what we want to do, it can be tempting to sit back in a corner and do nothing at all. You might find yourself doing calculations in your head, weighing the pros and cons of every single option, but end up making no visible efforts to change your life in the real world. This is what psychologists call “ analysis paralysis ”.

Thinking about your career options can only take you so far. Discovering your career path calls for action, and that’s a whole different ball game. If you’re considering two career options, for example, pick the one that is more accessible to you, and take it from there.

For example, you might have a degree in finance , but you find yourself drawn to writing and graphic design. How do you choose which one to pursue? Why not pick a job with a financial firm and offer to help out the marketing team with their content or graphic design needs? This way, you’ve got your leg through the door and you can try out your other career paths without suffering any financial loss.

5. Take one step at a time

While taking action might make sense when you have a few career options to strive towards, things can get a bit out of hand when there are too many options or, indeed, no options at all.

Recruiters love to ask candidates about their five-year plan, but the reality of the matter is that  not many people have it . Life is unpredictable, and the world of work is changing so fast that your current five-year plan might be outdated long before you get to the finish line. Therefore, don’t beat yourself up if you find yourself without a grandiose career path to strive towards.

Instead, why not start small? Rather than wondering whether this next job opportunity will really take you where you’re supposed to be in 5 or 10 years, give it a go and see what happens.

Did you enjoy going to work? Or did you feel trapped and bored? Can you see yourself doing this long term? These can be good early indicators of whether you’re on the right track.

Taking one step at a time gives you the freedom to adjust your path as circumstances change and really experiment with your options.

6. Start networking

Meeting people who work within your potential industries might be one of the most critical steps you take in your career journey. Indeed, research has found that about  85% of all jobs are filled through networking .

We often underestimate the role that networking can play in our  job search , opting for more conventional methods such as job boards and job adverts. But networking can also play a significant role when it comes to career exploration.

The more people you meet from different walks of life, the more of a diverse portfolio of opportunities and insights you will gain. Ultimately, networking could help you decide whether a career path is right for you or not by merely talking to others.

7. Take your lifestyle into account

Lifestyle is rarely, if ever, considered when we’re making a career choice. However, every job comes with a different schedule, dynamic and working space.

If you decide that you’d like to be a  firefighter  because you want to help people but don’t want to be on call at 3am when the next fire alarm goes off, you haven’t really thought things through.

Lifestyle refers to your preferred day-to-day dynamic. Would you like to have a set 9-to-5 job, and then forget about work once you log off, or do you prefer to have flexible working hours, which might also mean working well into the evening?

Likewise, do you prefer being indoors or  outdoors ? Do you like to work with people or by yourself? Some professions are intrinsically collaborative, while others might rely more on solitary work.

All of these things can influence how you feel about your job and, ultimately, whether you will be satisfied with it or not. So, when you’re considering different professions, make sure to factor in the lifestyle that you would like to lead, too.

8. Be curious

New jobs and professions  are created every year to respond to rapid changes in technology and socio-economic developments. For example, take the new title, “ Head of Remote Work ”, which was invented during the COVID-19 pandemic to respond to the new normal of a distributed workforce.

Other professionals, like growth hackers, digital marketers and virtual assistants, are all products of the internet, and none of them existed before the 2000s.

If you’re struggling to choose a career path, it might be that you haven’t come across or considered one that is right for you. Elizabeth Gilbert, the best-selling author of  Eat, Pray, Love  often talks about  curiosity as being more important than passion .

Being curious means that you allow yourself to explore different options, and that, in itself, can give you more answers than stubbornly  looking for your “passion” .

Next time  something piques your interest , try to follow it, be it a hobby or a pastime activity you often indulge in. See what topics you like to learn or read about, and what kind of activities you’re drawn to. All of these things can be clues that will help you discover the right career.

9. Stay open to change

One way to release some of the pressure of making the right choice is to tell yourself that the career you choose doesn’t have to be the be-all and end-all. We can sometimes be too strict with ourselves, thinking there’s only one true calling and that, if we haven’t found it, we have failed. Nothing can be further from the truth.

Have you heard of the story when Singapore Airlines tried to pivot during the pandemic and opened its planes to customers for a  dining experience as opposed to flying ? If businesses can change tact and adjust to new circumstances, why can’t we do the same as individuals?

When choosing your career path, think about your interests, but also be aware that these interests can change over time. This means that your career doesn’t necessarily have to follow a straight, linear path — and that’s okay.

10. Work on your personal branding

Regardless what profession you choose, it’s likely that you have some type of online presence , which your future employer can easily find before hiring you. Therefore, working on your personal branding can play an essential role in getting the career you want.

There are certain behaviors that can instantly disqualify you from a job, like posting controversial opinions on social media, being overly political or posting unprofessional photos of yourself. Other than avoiding these common social media mistakes , you can also devote yourself to positive activities that can reinforce your brand.

For example, if you’re considering a profession as an  architect , sharing your observations on the latest trends in the industry can position you as a thought leader in that field.  Volunteering with an organization or agency within your selected area can also go a long way in showing the world that you genuinely care about what you do.

Of course, your personal brand should be a true reflection of who you are as a professional and what people can expect when working with you.

11. Work with a career coach

If you’ve worked in a field that’s not quite right for you for a while, it’s easy to start losing hope. You might be feeling stuck or tired , or telling yourself that you’re never going to find a job that fulfils you more than your current role does.

That doesn’t have to be the case, however. Career counselors are there to help people like you, who are trying to evaluate their career choices and make changes so as to lead a more meaningful professional life.

Thanks to the internet, you can work with coaches in all parts of the world, should you be unfamiliar with any career coaches in your area. Many career coaches offer affordable resources on their websites, too, such as checklists and quizzes that you can use to brainstorm in your own time.

12. Sign up for courses

So, let’s say there’s a field that’s always interested you but you never got the chance to learn an awful lot about. This could be anything, from programming to accounting to illustration. When you have little exposure to a subject, the best way to gauge whether you could make a career out of it some day is to start learning more and more about it.

Signing up for an online course or in-person tutoring to gain knowledge in a field that interests you can be the best place to initiate changes in your professional life. You might be pleasantly surprised, and discover a strong passion and a renewed sense of motivation to make a career out of this new subject — or you might realize that you’re better off keeping it as a hobby. Either way, you’ll know something that you currently don’t!

13. Consider your strengths

A lot of the time, people quit their job when it doesn’t pay well, provides them with no room for career progression, or their boss treats them poorly . It’s not uncommon, however, for people to walk out on a job that doesn’t align with their personal values or doesn’t challenge them enough!

That’s why it’s important to consider what you enjoy and what you’re good at when brainstorming possible career paths for the future. Though skills are not fixed, but rather can be learned and enhanced, there are bound to be certain skills or abilities that come to you a bit more naturally.

For example, you might have excellent communication skills and love conversing with people; or you might have a knack for analyzing data and formulating strategies based on your findings.

If you’re unsure where your talents lie, speak with colleagues, friends and family members, and ask for their honest opinions.

14. Identify your working style

To find a career path that suits you, it can be helpful to consider your working style. If you’ve not heard of this term before, it refers to how you go about carrying out your tasks in the workplace.

For example, Asana lists the following six working styles that a professional might have: independent, cooperative, supportive, idea oriented, detail oriented, and balanced.

Do you prefer to work independently? Do you thrive when providing support to others? Is attention to detail your strongest suit? Knowing what comes naturally to you and what you enjoy doing can really help narrow down your choices when considering what type of work would suit you best.

15. Make a list of potential career paths

When trying to figure out what career might be a good fit for you, it’s important to keep in mind that there might be more than one answer. After all, most people have a broad range of interests and abilities, and also carry the capacity to grow and change over time.

Even if you narrow down your options to a professional field, such as healthcare or the arts, there will still be various roles you could be pursuing within it. A list can help you identify the pros and cons of each role, from how much you could be earning to the work–life balance you could be enjoying. This is important in identifying the profession that ticks most of your boxes.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, choosing the right career path isn’t a process you go through once in your life and then you’re done.

Instead, careers can be fluid, changing parts of our lives that can offer us immense fulfilment, as long as we stay curious, connect with others in meaningful ways and continue to take steps forward.

Watch the video below for a few simple steps to finding the right career:

Got a question? Let us know in the comments section below.

Originally published on December 30, 2016. Updated by Electra Michaelidou.

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Research Assistant, Department of Psychology

Apply now Job no: 497350 Work type: Postdoc / Research / Fellow Location: Denver, CO Categories: Research Division: Arts & Humanities/Social Sciences

The Department of Psychology at the University of Denver is research-oriented, valuing a collaborative and integrative approach to psychological science that fosters intellectual curiosity and innovation and invests in people in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our mission is to advance psychological science by generating and sharing new knowledge through collaborative scholarship, educating and mentoring student scholars, and contributing to the public good. The College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and the Psychology department are strongly committed to building a diverse and inclusive educational environment, which is in full accord with the value that DU places on its commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candidates must demonstrate ability to integrate content and issues relating to, and to work effectively with, ethnically/racially diverse populations. The University of Denver endeavors to be a great university dedicated to the public good and to uphold the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. The University recognizes that its success is dependent on how well it lives these values, including how we engage, support, and champion members both at DU and in the greater community. DU is situated in the Denver metro area, a vibrant urban center in the Rocky Mountain region, home to more than 3 million people. Our metropolitan location supports collaboration across local universities. DU, ranked in the top 100 universities in the country, is comprised of 5800 undergraduates (600+ psychology majors), 8000 graduate students (55 Psychology graduate students), and 700+ full-time faculty. The University recently received recognition as an R1 by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

Position Summary

The Research Assistant will assist with a grant-funded research project investigating the influence of prenatal depression on development including assessments of behavior, physiology, brain, diet, sleep, and cardiovascular health. Specific duties include recruiting and scheduling participants, making phone calls, assisting with research study visits, collection of data on child cardiovascular health, coordinating at-home data collection with families, and entering data into spreadsheets. The Research assistant will work very closely with other project staff and participants, and therefore must have excellent interpersonal skills. This project is a collaboration between the Neurodevelopmental Research Program at the University of Denver (www.du.edu/neurodevelopment) and the University of Colorado at Anschutz Medical Campus. This is a full time position (i.e., 40 hours per week) that comes with DU’s full benefits package, and the funding for this position is contingent on grant funding. The schedule requires daytime hours and evening/weekend availability.

Essential Functions

The primary responsibilities for the Project Coordinator are:

• Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigators, the research assistant will assist with a research project that involves biological, medical, and psychological data from women and their children. The research assistant will assist with data collection, recruitment, phone calls, appointment scheduling, administration of questionnaires, clerical tasks such as filing and photocopying, and tracking of at-home data collection with families. This will include assisting with management of IRB protocols
• Working with human subjects: protocol requirements, phone calls, scheduling, questionnaire administration, coordinating at-home data collection with families, observations and assisting the PIs with study administration
• Preparation of subject data, assisting with data entry, filing, etc.
• Participation as a member of the research team: various meetings with investigators.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong mathematical skills
• Strong reasoning ability
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills and administrative skills to include scheduling, data/file management, word processing (MS Word), Spreadsheets (Excel), copying, phone skills and data entry

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field
• Experience working with children

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience coordinating research projects, and experience in research with families, and maternal health
• Child/Infant CPR Certification
• Statistical knowledge
• Bilingual in Spanish and English

Working Environment

• Standard office environment
• Noise level is quiet to moderate
• Community settings

Physical Activities

• Ability to travel to community partners in Denver-metro and nationwide
• Ability to sit in front of a computer for an extended period
• Occasionally required to move about the office/campus with the capability of transporting objects up to 20 lbs. with assistance

Work Schedule Monday - Friday 40 hours/week

Application Deadline For consideration, please submit your application materials by 4:00 p.m. (MST) June 17, 2024.

Special Instructions Candidates must apply online through jobs.du.edu to be considered. Only applications submitted online will be accepted.

Salary Grade Number: The salary grade for the position is 7. Hourly Range: The hourly range for the position is $22.48-$26.98

The University of Denver has provided a compensation range that represents its good faith estimate of what the University may pay for the position at the time of posting. The University may ultimately pay more or less than the posted compensation range. The salary offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal salary equity considerations, and available market information, but not based on a candidate’s sex or any other protected status.

Benefits: The University of Denver offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO pass. The University of Denver is a private institution that empowers students who want to make a difference. Learn more about the University of Denver .

Please include the following documents with your application: 1. Resume 2. Cover Letter

The University of Denver is an equal opportunity employer. The University of Denver prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, creed, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, military enlistment, or veteran status, and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination under federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance in any of the University's educational programs and activities, and in the employment (including application for employment) and admissions (including application for admission) context, as required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Americans with Disabilities Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; Equal Pay Act; Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act; the Colorado Protecting Opportunities and Workers' Rights ("POWR") Act; and any other federal, state, and local laws, regulations, or ordinances that prohibit discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation. For more information, please see the University of Denver's Non‑Discrimination‑Statement . All offers of employment are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal history background check.

Advertised: June 10, 2024 Applications close: June 17, 2024

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