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What Does a Research Nurse Do?

Research nurses conduct and share their research on nursing practices and patient care. Although individual nursing research varies by the research nurse, there are shared goals in the profession. These goals center on promoting and assuring optimum patient care and strong nursing practices. Research nurses use their training and expertise, which can be developed through degree programs in research nursing, to promote evidence-based practices in the nursing profession. For instance, a research nurse might focus on projects that better prevent disease and disability.

Education & Training Required to Become a Research Nurse

Research nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who hold at least a master's degree in nursing (MSN). Many employers require research nurses to hold PhDs. Therefore, you should anticipate a minimum of two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree--during which time you engage in intensive mentored nursing research--if you want to become a research nurse. Online degree programs can make it easier to earn advanced degrees while working as an RN.

Typical Characteristics of a Research Nurse

Research nurses should be strong communicators and leaders and have the dual ability to work well with others and by themselves. Although research can be a solitary activity, which requires excellent critical thinking and self-motivation skills, sharing and promoting one's research is an equally important aspect of the research nursing. Additionally, some larger research projects are done in teams, which requires extensive collaboration and cooperation.

High Demand for Research Nurses

The enormous demand for RNs is widely known: the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that there will be 581,500 new RN jobs created between 2008 and 2018. RNs who earn higher degrees, including research nurses, to better serve the nursing profession and to improve patient care should have the most opportunities in this booming market. Often, completing a higher degree, such as a degree program in research nursing, can lead to better job and salary options. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2008, median RN salaries were $62,450.