5 Research Librarian Job Description Templates and Examples | Himalayas

5 Research Librarian Job Description Templates and Examples

Research Librarians are experts in information retrieval and organization, supporting academic, corporate, or public research needs. They assist users in locating and evaluating resources, manage specialized collections, and often conduct their own research to support institutional goals. Junior roles focus on assisting with basic research tasks and cataloging, while senior roles involve managing teams, developing research strategies, and overseeing library operations.

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1. Assistant Research Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Assistant Research Librarian to join our dynamic research team. In this role, you will support researchers by providing comprehensive information resources and library services, ensuring the availability of high-quality data and research materials.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in managing library collections, including acquisition, cataloging, and organization of research materials.
  • Provide reference services to researchers, helping them locate and access relevant information and resources.
  • Conduct literature reviews and compile bibliographies to support ongoing research projects.
  • Develop and deliver training sessions on library resources and research methodologies.
  • Collaborate with team members to enhance library services and improve access to information.
  • Stay updated on emerging trends and technologies in library science and information management.

Required Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent.
  • 1-2 years of experience in a library or research setting.
  • Familiarity with research databases, library management systems, and bibliographic software.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct thorough research.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with digital libraries and electronic resources.
  • Knowledge of data management practices and tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in library management systems (e.g., Alma, Koha).
  • Experience with research databases such as JSTOR, PubMed, or Scopus.
  • Familiarity with citation management tools (e.g., EndNote, Zotero).

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively.
  • Commitment to providing exceptional service to researchers and users.
  • Enthusiasm for continuous learning and professional development.

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time offers include:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Flexible work hours and a fully remote work environment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

2. Research Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Research Librarian who is passionate about information science and dedicated to supporting the research needs of our community. In this in-person role, you will play a critical part in curating and managing our information resources, while collaborating with researchers, faculty, and students to facilitate access to knowledge and information.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and manage research collections, ensuring resources are current, relevant, and accessible to users
  • Provide expert reference and research assistance to patrons, utilizing both traditional and digital resources
  • Conduct information literacy workshops and training sessions to enhance research skills among users
  • Collaborate with faculty and researchers to support academic programs and research initiatives
  • Stay informed of trends in library science and technology to continually improve library services and offerings
  • Participate in the assessment and evaluation of library services to ensure alignment with community needs

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent from an accredited institution
  • 2+ years of experience in a library or information center, with a focus on research support
  • Strong knowledge of research methodologies and information resources
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Preferred:

  • Experience with digital library systems and research databases
  • Familiarity with data management and digital scholarship initiatives
  • Proficiency in conducting literature reviews and synthesizing information

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in library management systems (e.g., ILS, discovery tools)
  • Experience with academic databases (e.g., JSTOR, PubMed) and citation management software (e.g., EndNote, Zotero)
  • Ability to utilize data analysis tools and software to support research efforts

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to assess user needs and research trends
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse library environment
  • Proactive approach to problem-solving and user engagement

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs
  • Retirement savings plans with employer matching
  • Professional development opportunities and continuing education support
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage all interested candidates, even those who may not meet every single requirement, to apply and share their unique perspectives and experiences.

3. Senior Research Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Research Librarian to join our dynamic team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. This pivotal role will involve leading research initiatives, developing library services, and enhancing user engagement through innovative information solutions while collaborating closely with faculty, students, and external partners.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement advanced research strategies that enhance access to information resources and support academic success
  • Conduct in-depth research consultations, providing expert guidance to faculty and students on utilizing library resources effectively
  • Develop and curate library collections, ensuring alignment with educational and research objectives
  • Lead workshops and training sessions to promote information literacy and research skills among users
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate library resources into the curriculum and enhance digital services
  • Evaluate and adopt new technologies and tools to improve library services and user experience

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master’s degree in Library Science (MLS) or equivalent from an ALA-accredited program
  • 5+ years of experience in a research library setting, with demonstrated expertise in academic research support
  • Strong knowledge of library databases, digital resources, and emerging technologies in library science
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to engage diverse user groups

Preferred:

  • Experience in a leadership role, mentoring junior staff, and managing library projects
  • Familiarity with data management, scholarly communication, and open access initiatives
  • Proficiency in using research management tools and citation software

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in library management systems (e.g., Ex Libris Alma, OCLC WorldShare)
  • Familiarity with information retrieval systems, bibliographic databases, and digital archives
  • Competence in utilizing data analytics tools to assess user engagement and library services

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with a passion for continuous learning and professional development
  • Proactive problem-solving abilities, with a track record of implementing effective solutions
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a hybrid environment, balancing in-person and remote engagements
  • A commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming library environment for all users

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Flexible work arrangements with a hybrid model
  • Professional development opportunities, including conferences and workshops
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
  • Retirement plans with employer matching
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This position requires a hybrid work arrangement, with candidates expected to work from the office at least 3 days a week at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

4. Lead Research Librarian Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and proactive Lead Research Librarian to spearhead our research initiatives and provide expert guidance in information retrieval and data management. In this pivotal role, you will oversee the development of research strategies, enhance resource accessibility, and lead a team of librarians in delivering top-notch research support to our diverse clientele.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement comprehensive research strategies that align with organizational goals and client needs
  • Lead and mentor a dynamic team of librarians, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment
  • Conduct complex literature searches, synthesizing information from diverse sources to support decision-making
  • Evaluate and curate research resources, ensuring the library's collection is relevant, accessible, and up-to-date
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to identify research needs and develop tailored solutions
  • Provide training and support to library staff and users on research methodologies and information literacy
  • Monitor and analyze trends in library and information science to inform best practices and enhance service delivery

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or equivalent
  • 5+ years of experience in a research librarian role, with demonstrated leadership capabilities
  • Expertise in advanced research methodologies and data management techniques
  • Strong analytical skills and proficiency in utilizing library databases and digital resources

Preferred:

  • Experience in a leadership role within a library or research environment
  • Familiarity with emerging technologies and trends in library science
  • Evidence of professional development through publications, presentations, or participation in professional organizations

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in library management systems and research databases (e.g., JSTOR, PubMed, Scopus)
  • Experience with data visualization tools and research analytics platforms
  • Familiarity with citation management software (e.g., EndNote, Zotero)

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and quality in research outputs
  • Proactive problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and demands
  • A commitment to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the library

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time employees can expect a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with company matching
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
  • Professional development and continuing education opportunities
  • Flexible work environment with remote work options

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

5. Head of Research Services Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a strategic and innovative Head of Research Services to lead our research initiatives, ensuring that our organization remains at the forefront of industry advancements. In this role, you will oversee the development and implementation of research strategies, manage cross-functional teams, and partner closely with executive leadership to align research goals with organizational objectives.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive research strategy that aligns with the company’s vision and objectives
  • Lead and mentor a diverse team of researchers, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation
  • Establish and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, both internally and externally, to drive research initiatives
  • Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for research growth and development
  • Oversee the budget for research services, ensuring efficient allocation of resources
  • Provide regular updates to executive leadership on research progress, outcomes, and strategic recommendations

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • 10+ years of experience in research management, with a strong background in leading research teams
  • Proven track record of developing successful research strategies that drive organizational impact
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights

Preferred:

  • Experience in a leadership role within a research-focused organization
  • Advanced degree in a relevant field (PhD preferred)
  • Familiarity with emerging research technologies and methodologies

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and statistical tools
  • Proficient in using research management software and project management tools
  • Experience with data visualization tools to communicate research findings effectively

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly
  • Strong leadership skills, with a passion for mentoring and developing talent
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing multiple priorities
  • A collaborative mindset, with a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the team

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Equity participation
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plans with company match
  • Generous paid time off and parental leave policies
  • Professional development and training opportunities

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by law.

Location

This is a hybrid position, requiring successful candidates to work from the office at least 3 days a week.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply, even if they do not meet every requirement outlined in this job description.

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