What is a Research Historian Job?
A research historian job involves conducting research on history-related topics to provide accurate information and insights. Professionals in this field work with data from various sources such as archives, museums, libraries, and historical societies. They analyze and interpret the information gathered to develop new insights and understandings of past events.
Research historians are responsible for writing historical papers, articles, and books that are used by scholars, students, and other researchers. They may also work as consultants, providing historical expertise to individuals, organizations, or institutions.
What Usually Do in This Position?
In a research historian job, your primary responsibility is to conduct research on specific historical topics. This may involve using primary sources such as letters, diaries, newspapers, and other archival materials to gather information about past events. You may also be required to conduct interviews with individuals who have personal knowledge of the events being studied.
Once you have gathered the necessary information, you will need to analyze and interpret it to develop new insights and understandings of the past. You may also be responsible for writing historical papers, articles, and books that are used by scholars, students, and other researchers.
Top 5 Skills for Position
Some of the key skills required for a research historian job include:
- Strong research skills: You should be able to conduct research using a variety of sources and analyze the information gathered to develop new insights and understandings.
- Excellent writing skills: You should be able to write clear, concise, and engaging historical papers, articles, and books that are used by other researchers.
- Attention to detail: You should be able to pay close attention to detail to ensure that your research is accurate and reliable.
- Good communication skills: You should be able to communicate your research findings clearly and effectively to other researchers and the general public.
- Time management skills: You should be able to manage your time effectively to ensure that you meet deadlines and complete projects on time.
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a research historian, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in history or a related field. Many research historians also have a master's degree or Ph.D. in history or a related field.
In addition to formal education, you will also need to develop strong research and writing skills through practical experience. This may involve working as a research assistant or intern while in college or graduate school.
Once you have the necessary education and experience, you can begin looking for job opportunities in the field. This may involve applying for positions at universities, museums, historical societies, or other organizations.
Average Salary
The average salary for a research historian in the United States is around $63,000 per year. However, this can vary significantly depending on factors such as education, experience, and location.
Roles and Types
Research historians may work in a variety of roles and types of organizations. Some of the most common roles include:
- Academic researchers: These individuals work at universities and colleges, conducting research and teaching history courses.
- Museum historians: Museum historians work in museums, conducting research on specific historical topics and developing exhibits and educational programs for visitors.
- Historical consultants: These individuals work as consultants, providing historical expertise to individuals, organizations, or institutions.
- Archivists: Archivists work in archives, collecting, organizing, and preserving historical documents and materials.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Some of the most popular locations for research historian jobs in the United States include:
- Washington, D.C.
- New York, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Boston, MA
- Chicago, IL
What Are the Typical Tools
Research historians typically use a variety of tools and resources to conduct their research, including:
- Archival materials such as letters, diaries, and other documents
- Newspaper and journal articles
- Online databases and resources
- Statistical software for data analysis
- Library catalogs and databases
In Conclusion
A research historian job is an exciting and rewarding career for individuals who are passionate about history. By developing strong research and writing skills, you can become a valuable member of the historical community, contributing to our understanding of the past and shaping our understanding of the present. With the right education, experience, and skills, you can find fulfilling and challenging job opportunities in this field.