Researcher
Description
A researcher is a professional engaged in the production of knowledge, products, processes, methods and/or systems, and in the management of the related projects. Depending on the nature of the research, it can be basic, applied, or geared towards various fields, producing social, economic, cultural or technological value through development, innovation and knowledge transfer. Researchers normally work for public entities dedicated to research, which are usually linked to the academic world. So-called "competitive" research projects receive funding following the submission of proposals in a public tender. Then, an entity, usually a non-profit organisation and generally of public nature, whether national or international (i.e. Spanish or a member of the European Commission) selects the most suitable proposal and funds it.
Tasks
- Proposes research projects, defines objectives and action plans.
- Once the project is defined, this professional canvasses public institutions and private companies for funding.
- Draft the investigation proposal, in which the economic factors necessary to its development are included. In addition, present and defend the proposal to financing companies or bodies.
- Plan the project execution.
- Manage the project approach throughout the length of its development.
- Manages the administrative and economic aspects of the project when a specific individual is not assigned to take charge of this task, although, generally, this function is carried out by the project manager.
- Lastly, present project results to companies or collectives interested in its execution.
- The development of research projects requires that the researcher leading the project team possesses other abilities beyond the necessary technical skills: the overall research vision makes possible an efficient approach; communication and persuasion skills so as to obtain economic financing, and the ability to unite efforts and of leadership to direct multidisciplinary teams that in most cases make up the human capital responsible for the execution of the project.
