A big part of engineering that deserves far more credit than it’s getting is research. The most exciting part that is always highlighted is the creativity, design, and development; however, let’s not forget that research engineers work with diverse sectors such as government, academic institutions, and manufacturers to guarantee a smooth project from start to finish.
Planning, managing, and executing projects can’t start without technical research to help teams come up with the next big thing by studying cutting-edge technologies and inventing new processes; all motivating reasons to become a research engineer, but what else?
What Exactly is a Research Engineer?
Research engineers come from a variety of engineering disciplines and their focus is to help develop products, processes, and technology in many different industries.
A couple of fields where research engineers work include:
- Healthcare
- Transportation
- Electronics
- Product development (industrial and commercial)
- Energy
Their main responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Conducting research to identify industry solutions or potential product ideas
- Developing concepts for existing or new products, processes, or equipment relevant to their industry
- Building product and system prototypes for testing purposes
- Managing and leading design or research teams
- Writing research and grant proposals
Research Engineers Are at the Forefront of Any Project Launch
Research is where it all beings, and is the pillar of any product development or project in general. Doing research equips engineers with the essential knowledge about the needs of the real world and abilities to improve everyday life.
Moreover, when it comes to research professionals themselves, finding something interesting to discuss is a selfless act on its own as goes beyond personal experience, to focus on determining what the general public might want to know or need which makes research an essential component of knowledge production and operation.
The Competitive Advantage
Research is a big part of innovation. It not only gives the engineer a competitive advantage from his/her peers but also and added value to the organization trying to cut through the clutter of today’s competitive engineering landscape. This goes to show how important the role of a research engineer is, and the responsibility it holds, especially when every other industry like chemical manufacturers, pharma, and tech is investing a lot to stay ahead of the curve. How does that relate to research? Plain and simple, professional engineers with a research specialty help prevent companies from making any risky investment choices that will not only harm their reputation but the world community as a whole.
How to Become a Research Engineer?
After obtaining a bachelor’s degree and gaining some work experience, you might want to consider an advanced degree. Earning a master’s degree in engineering, particularly in creative technology, will offer you more advanced and specific coursework related to your engineering concentration and gain more advanced research, laboratory and design experience. By joining ESiLV’s programmes , you can prove to recruiters that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform and succeed as a research engineer.
Interested in pursuing an engineering career? The role of a research engineer may be a path to consider.