Skip Navigation LinksResearchScientists

Human Resources Division                                     

DNA strand with chemical terminology in background

Research Scientists

Classifications in this field engage in a wide range of science-based activities aimed at protecting and improving the health and safety of Californians. Their work may involve disease surveillance, epidemiological investigations, laboratory analysis, environmental health regulation, and public education on health and safety issues. These professionals also prepare scientific reports, regulatory documents, and develop innovative programs to address emerging health and environmental challenges. The Research Scientist series conducts advanced public health studies that deepen understanding of illness and injury, guide prevention and education efforts, and evaluate how effectively the healthcare system reduces morbidity and mortality to support the State’s health mission.

Back to CDPH Career Opportunities

Four images of laboratory tubes and  a petri dish

​​Research Scientists​

The Research Scientist series is responsible for conducting highly specialized public health research contributing to the understanding, prevention, and control of illnesses and injuries, and develop public health education and prevention programs to measure the efficiency of the health care system in reducing morbidity and mortality.

There are 7 classifications in this series (Research Scientist, Research Scientist Staff, Research Scientist Senior, Research Scientist Principal, Research Scientist Supervisor I, Research Scientist Supervisor II, Research Scientist Manager) working in various specialties including chemical sciences, biological sciences, epidemiology/biostatistics, food and drug sciences, microbiological sciences , physical/mathematical/engineering sciences, social/behavioral sciences, toxicological sciences and veterinary sciences.

Use this resource to determine if your degree(s) and/or expertise are within a specialty or closely related field: Research Scientist Approved Education & Closely Related Fields.pdf

​How to Apply

Step 1: Create or Login to Your CalCareer Account

With a CalCareer account, you can take state civil service examinations, store different versions of your application, apply for vacancies, track your application status and save your resume all in one place.

Step 2: Take Examination/Assessment

Before you can work for the State, you need to take and pass an examination for the job type (classification) that you wish to be considered for employment. The assessment process can take many forms (i.e. self-assessments or written exams) and may be required to be completed in-person or online. Examination Bulletins list the minimum qualifications and the steps required to apply and/or complete the examination/assessment. If you have current or past state experience, you may have Transfer Eligibility or Reinstatement Rights.

Below are some of our sciences examinations. For a complete list, please visit ​​CalCareers​.​

  
  
  
  
Research Scientist$7,625.00-$9,799.00EX-4860Continuous
Research Scientist Manager$13,288.00-$15,603.00EX-4905Continuous
Research Scientist Principal$10,530.00-$13,633.00EX-4856Continuous
Research Scientist Senior$9,573.00-$12,394.00EX-4864Continuous
Research Scientist Staff$8,327.00-$10,779.00EX-4862Continuous
Research Scientist Supervisor I$9,578.00-$12,343.00EX-4855Continuous
Research Scientist Supervisor II$11,316.00-$14,580.00EX-4907Continuous

​Step 3: Search and Apply for Jobs

Once you have taken the examination or established eligibility for the job type that you wish to be considered for employment, you may be considered for open positions in that job type by applying for job vacancies. Login to your CalCareer account, locate the job posting you wish to apply for and click on “Apply for This Job” and follow the prompts.

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Research Scientist - Research Laboratory Scientist$7,625.00-$9,799.00Permanent Full TimeCenter for Family HealthGenetic Disease Division - RichmondContra CostaJC# 5191926/11/2026EX-4860Continuous
Research Scientist Staff - Reporting and Analytics Lead$8,327.00-$10,779.00Permanent Full TimeCenter for Infectious DiseasesImmunization Branch OfficeContra CostaJC# 5197106/11/2026EX-4862Continuous
Research Scientist Staff Senior Surveillance Epidemiologist $8,327.00-$10,779.00Limited Term Full TimeCenter for Healthy CommunitiesOccupational Health Branch - RichmondContra CostaJC# 5212126/24/2026EX-4862Continuous
Research Scientist Supervisor I Data Analytics and Bioinformatics Unit Branch$9,578.00-$12,343.00Permanent Full TimeCenter for Family HealthGenetic Disease Division - RichmondContra CostaJC# 5211227/1/2026EX-4855Continuous
Page Last Updated :