What is the job of a research analyst?

I'm interested in pursuing a career in research but not sure about the specific roles. What does a research analyst do, and what industries hire them? Is this a good career path for someone who loves data and analysis?

A research analyst is a profession where one gathers, interprets, and presents data and information to aid in decision-making processes. They operate across a wide range of industries including finance, marketing, social sciences, and policy making.

In finance, for example, a research analyst might study market trends, financial data, and economic factors to make informed recommendations about investments. Likewise, in a marketing setting, research analysts might evaluate consumer data and demographic trends to help formulate effective marketing strategies.

A typical day could involve tasks such as creating surveys and questionnaires, analyzing data using statistical software, preparing reports summarizing the data, and presenting the findings to stakeholders or clients. Furthermore, an analyst works with a plethora of tools and software for data mining, modeling, and statistical analysis.

Now, if you mention loving data and analysis, a career as a research analyst could definitely be a great fit! Remember it also requires strong communication skills, because as an analyst you'd have to interpret and present complex data in a way that's accessible for others.

The job prospects for research analysts seem to be on an upward trend, and salary potential can also be robust depending on the industry and level of experience. Plus, the skill set of a research analyst is highly transferable, meaning that it can open doors to a variety of industries and roles down the line. For instance, it could lead to management roles, or more specialized positions such as a data scientist or financial analyst.

Keep in mind that most roles require at least a bachelor's degree, often in a field such as statistics, math, or economics, and some roles might require a higher degree or specialized training. That being said, it could be a rewarding career path if you're ready to dive deep into data and enjoy drawing conclusions from it.