A Research Professor, sometimes called a Research Full Professor, is a prestigious academic position in higher education dedicated entirely to advancing knowledge through research. Unlike traditional tenure-track professors who split time between teaching and research, the Research Professor meaning centers on leading cutting-edge projects, securing external funding, and producing high-impact publications. This role emerged as universities recognized the need for specialized researchers amid growing reliance on grants post-World War II, particularly in the United States where federal funding like the National Science Foundation (NSF) propelled research expansion.
In simple terms, if you're passionate about discovery without classroom duties, Research Professor jobs offer that focus. They often hold equivalent status to full professors but are 'soft-money' positions, meaning salary derives from grants rather than fixed university budgets.
The Research Professor title traces back to the mid-20th century, evolving from research fellowships at institutions like Rockefeller University in 1901, which prioritized pure research. By the 1960s, as research grants surged—NSF funding alone grew from $100 million in 1960 to over $1 billion by 1970—universities formalized these roles. Today, they thrive in research-intensive environments globally, adapting to national contexts like Europe's emphasis on Horizon Europe programs.
Research Professors spearhead independent or collaborative studies, mentor junior researchers, and disseminate findings via journals and conferences. Daily tasks include experimental design, data analysis, and stakeholder reporting. For instance, a physicist might lead quantum computing prototypes, echoing recent <a href='/higher-education-news/quantum-tech-prototypes-2026-breakthroughs-and-trends-460'>breakthroughs in quantum tech</a>.
To land Research Professor jobs, candidates need rigorous credentials. Start with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the relevant field, such as biology, engineering, or social sciences.
Deep specialization in a niche, like AI developments or renewable energy, with proven innovation. Expertise must align with funder priorities, such as <a href='/higher-education-news/ai-and-tech-research-boom-new-global-hubs-and-investments-drive-2026-innovation-wave-13'>AI research booms</a>.
Actionable advice: Tailor your <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/how-to-write-a-winning-academic-cv'>academic CV</a> to highlight metrics like h-index and impact factors.
In Georgia, Research Professor positions align with the country's Bologna Process integration since 2005, emphasizing research at universities like Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (TSU). Funding comes from the Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation (SRNSF) and EU partnerships, supporting fields like biotech amid regional challenges. Salaries range from GEL 5,000-12,000 monthly, boosted by grants. Aspiring candidates should target SRNSF calls, building on postdoc roles similar to those in <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/postdoctoral-success-how-to-thrive-in-your-research-role'>postdoctoral success strategies</a>. Despite political contexts, research surges in tech and sustainability.
Transition from postdoc via <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/postdoctoral-success-how-to-thrive-in-your-research-role'>thriving in research roles</a>, network at conferences, and diversify funding. Track trends like NIH grant approvals in <a href='/higher-education-news/nih-approves-hundreds-of-previously-shelved-grant-applications-in-2026-what-it-means-for-research-979'>recent NIH shifts</a>. Polish applications with <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice/how-to-write-a-winning-academic-cv'>CV tips</a>.
Ready to advance? Browse <a href='/research-jobs'>research jobs</a>, <a href='/professor-jobs'>professor jobs</a>, and <a href='/higher-ed-jobs'>higher ed jobs</a>. Job seekers can refine strategies via <a href='/higher-ed-career-advice'>higher ed career advice</a>, while institutions post openings at <a href='/university-jobs'>university jobs</a> or <a href='/post-a-job'>post a job</a>.
Academic Jobs lists current university and higher education openings in Georgia with filters that match how campuses hire — by job type, position, city, and institution. Use the search above to narrow the live list, then apply from the employer listing. Set an alert with the same filters so new posts reach you while they are still open.
This page is for job seekers who want higher-ed roles, not a generic job feed. The heading count is the number of matching jobs in Georgia right now. That is the figure you should use when you decide whether to widen the region or keep filtering.
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Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
Nature Foundation
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