research fellow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'research fellow' is proper and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who works in a research department, often in an academic or research setting. For example: The professor's research fellow, Dr. Michael Smith, presented the results of their study at the conference.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His father is a research fellow there.

The New York Times

She is also a National Science Foundation research fellow.

The New York Times

Shelby Steele, research fellow, Hoover Institution.

The New York Times

Dr David Lowry Senior research fellow, Institute for Resource and Security Studies, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The Guardian

Marika Sherwood Senior research fellow, Institute of Commonwealth Studies.

The Guardian - Music

Jane Kinninmont is senior research fellow at Chatham House.

The Guardian - Opinion

Kate Goldsworthy, senior research fellow, Textiles Environment Design.

The Guardian

Lisa Denney, research fellow, Overseas Development Institute, London, UK.

The Guardian

Eric Kasper is a research fellow at IDS, University of Sussex.

The Guardian

Purnima Menon, senior research fellow, IFPRI, New Delhi, India.

The Guardian

Aaron Atteridge, research fellow, Stockholm Environment Institute, Stockholm.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a specific "research fellow", include their full name and affiliation for clarity. For example: "Dr. Jane Doe, research fellow at Harvard University."

Common error

Avoid using "fellow" as a general term for a researcher. "Fellow" indicates a specific type of research position, often with funding or a formal affiliation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "research fellow" functions primarily as a noun phrase used to identify an individual who holds a specific research position, often within an academic or research institution. Ludwig AI shows that the phrase is used to denote a person who conducts research.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "research fellow" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an individual who holds a research position, often in an academic or scientific setting. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used across various contexts, including science, news media, and formal business communications. When using this term, it's best practice to provide the fellow's full name and affiliation for clarity, while avoiding its misuse as a generic term for any researcher. Alternative phrases like "research associate" or "postdoctoral researcher" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

research associate

Focuses on the association with research rather than the fellowship aspect.

postdoctoral researcher

Specifies the post-doctoral nature of the research position.

research scientist

Emphasizes the scientific aspect of the research role.

visiting researcher

Highlights the temporary or visiting aspect of the research position.

research investigator

Highlights the investigative aspect of the research role.

research scholar

Focuses on the scholarly aspect of the research role.

research consultant

Emphasizes the consulting or advisory nature of the research work.

scientific researcher

Highlights the scientific aspect of the researcher role in a more specific way.

affiliated researcher

Highlights the affiliation or connection to an institution.

research expert

Highlights the expertise in the research domain.

FAQs

How is a "research fellow" different from a research assistant?

A "research assistant" typically supports senior researchers with tasks. A "research fellow" often conducts independent research and may lead projects.

What are the common responsibilities of a "research fellow"?

Common responsibilities include conducting research, publishing findings, presenting at conferences, and sometimes mentoring junior researchers or students.

Is a "research fellow" the same as a professor?

No, a "research fellow" is generally a temporary position focused on research, while a professor holds a permanent teaching and research role.

What qualifications are typically needed to become a "research fellow"?

Typically, a doctoral degree (PhD) is required, along with a strong research background and publications in relevant fields. Some positions may consider candidates with a master's degree and significant research experience.