Quality coordinator, research

What does a research quality coordinator do? – Tasks and work environment

A research quality coordinator works to ensure that research processes and results meet relevant quality requirements and standards. Tasks often include developing, implementing, and following up on internal quality systems, leading internal audits, and training and supporting research staff in quality matters. The role also involves coordinating work between different departments, managing documentation and reporting, and driving improvement efforts to enhance quality within research activities. The work environment is typically office-based at universities, research institutes, or within larger organizations' R&D departments, requiring accuracy, analytical skills, and a structured approach.

Salary development over time

The salary for a research quality coordinator has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK, increasing in 2023 to 44 700 SEK, a rise of about 3.5 %. In 2024, the salary continued to increase to 46 500 SEK, a further increase of approximately 4 %. The trend indicates ongoing demand for this competence, linked to increased quality assurance requirements in research and generally higher education levels among professionals. The salary trend also reflects the importance employers place on quality-assured research processes, while competition for qualified personnel remains noticeable within the sector.

Research quality coordinator salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 280 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 45 300 SEK, men 48 800 SEK (women 93 % of men's salaries)

Education and qualifications

To work as a research quality coordinator, a university degree is usually required, often at master's or magister level, in fields such as natural sciences, engineering, or medicine. Many employers also seek experience in quality work, preferably from research activities or similar areas. Knowledge of quality systems, process mapping, and standards such as ISO 9001 are particularly meritorious. The educational path can vary depending on specialization, but a structured academic background forms the foundation for the role.

• Formal education: Bachelor's degree (3 years) or master's/magister (5 years) in a relevant research field
• Certifications: Courses in quality management, e.g., ISO 9001
• Practical experience: Prior work in quality assurance or research is advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of scientific methodology and process management
• Tips for choosing: Combine subject expertise with courses in quality systems and process development

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for research quality coordinators include generous vacation policies, opportunities for professional development, wellness allowances, and sometimes flexitime or remote work. Occupational pension and comprehensive insurance coverage are standard, especially in the public sector and larger research organizations. Some employers also offer subsidized lunches or favorable conditions for public transport.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a research quality coordinator is moderate, providing good opportunities for qualified candidates to find employment. Challenges in the role often involve balancing different stakeholders' demands, managing changes in the research landscape, and implementing quality routines in sometimes fast-paced or complex environments. Resistance to change, especially when new routines or systems are introduced, is common. Success requires persistence and strong communication skills to build trust among colleagues. Some competition exists within popular research areas and larger universities, but overall the job market is stable with good development prospects.

Tips for aspiring research quality coordinators

To succeed as a research quality coordinator, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a structured approach and an interest in improvement work. Gaining early experience in quality assurance, such as through internships or projects, provides a solid foundation and helps in understanding research environment demands. Good communication is essential, as the role involves collaboration with both researchers and administrative staff—being able to explain complex processes clearly is a valuable skill. Initiative and perseverance are important, especially when driving change and handling resistance. For those wanting to make a difference in research and development, curiosity and a continuous desire to stay updated on new methods and regulations are advantageous. Building a network within both the quality field and the research area increases career opportunities.

Key facts about research quality coordinators

• Education level: Often master's degree or equivalent
• Work environment: Office-based, often at universities or research institutes
• Work form: Full-time, sometimes flexible hours or remote work
• Demand: Moderate, stable job market
• Special skills: Quality systems, process management, scientific methodology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a research quality coordinator, there are opportunities to advance to managerial roles such as quality manager or project leader for larger research projects. Other career options include specializing in regulatory issues, working as an internal auditor, or moving into strategic roles within quality development. The job outlook from the Employment Service indicates that the job market for planners and investigators, including this profession, is expected to be stable with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. There are also good prospects for switching industries, for example to the pharmaceutical industry, public sector, or international research organizations, thanks to the broad skills gained. Currently, there are 758 job openings in the profession, indicating continued demand for this competence.

Common questions about research quality coordinators

• What does a research quality coordinator earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between genders?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 45 300 SEK while men earn 48 800 SEK, which means women have 93 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a research quality coordinator?
  - Usually, a university degree at master's or magister level within a relevant field and experience in quality work are required.
• What is the job market like for research quality coordinators?
  - The job market is stable with moderate opportunities and is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK (male, municipal sector, research education) and the lowest is 30,200 SEK (female, government sector, pre-secondary education).
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and sometimes flexitime or remote work.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include advancing to quality manager, project leader, or working within regulatory issues and internal audits.