Research Scientist Visa Sponsorship Jobs in South Carolina
South Carolina's research scientist job market centers on life sciences, advanced materials, and defense research, with major employers including Clemson University, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Boehringer Ingelheim, and Savannah River National Laboratory near Aiken. Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville are the primary hiring hubs for sponsored research roles in the state.
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Get Access To All JobsPosting Number RTF00162PO26
USC Market Title Senior Research Associate
Business Title (Internal Title) MCH Lead Applied Researcher
Campus Columbia
Work County Richland
College/Division College of Social Work
Department COSW Institute for Families in Society
Anticipated Hiring Range Salary commensurate with qualifications
Location of Vacancy
Part/Full Time Full Time
Hours per Week 37.5
Work Schedule
* Monday through Friday, 8:30am until 5:00pm.
* Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Type of Staff Position Staff Research Grant (SRGP)
Basis 12 months
Job Search Category Other Professional
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
South Carolina Retirement Yes
State Insurance Programs Yes
Annual Leave Yes
Sick Leave Yes
Advertised Job Summary
The MCH Lead Evaluator and Applied Researcher will be a key player at IHPR, leading and supporting innovative healthcare and policy research initiatives. This position advances the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and children by coordinating evidence-informed health services and policy research to improve outcomes for medically underserved and at-risk populations.
By leveraging data-driven insights, this position will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of MCH services and policies, ensuring that every family receives the care and support they need to thrive. The importance of this role in shaping the future of MCH cannot be overstated, as it helps potential candidates feel valued and an integral member of the organization. A key component of this role is overseeing the design, development, and provision of technical assistance and evaluation for external and internal reporting required of existing and future MCH-related grants and contracts.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
Requires a Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in an area of research specialty and three or more years of job-related experience.
Preferred Qualifications
* Seven (7) or more years of experience conducting evaluation, applied research, or health services research.
* Experience in maternal and child health, public health, healthcare, or a related research environment.
* Three (3) or more years of experience working with Medicaid claims, birth certificate data, hospital records, or other large healthcare datasets.
* Experience designing and implementing program evaluations, performance measurement systems, and outcome assessments.
* Experience managing grants, contracts, research studies, or complex projects.
* History of leadership roles in health services research settings, preferably in maternal and child health.
* Supervisory or project leadership experience.
* Demonstrated success securing, supporting, or managing externally funded grants and contracts.
* Experience preparing technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs, presentations, or other dissemination products.
* Experience collaborating with government agencies, healthcare organizations, academic institutions, funders, and community partners.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
* Understanding of maternal and child health issues, healthcare delivery systems, health policy, and population health trends affecting women, infants, children, and families.
* Knowledge of research design, program evaluation methodologies, quality improvement principles, and performance measurement frameworks.
* Extensive knowledge of healthcare and public health data systems, including Medicaid claims, birth certificates, hospital records, and population-based surveys.
* Knowledge and experience with SAS.
* Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analysis, interpretation of complex datasets, translating research findings into actionable recommendations for technical and non-technical audiences.
* Skilled in academic, technical, applied writing, presenting complex information and facilitating discussions with diverse stakeholders.
* Ability to establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with government agencies, healthcare organizations, funders, community organizations, supervise staff, coordinate project activities, provide technical leadership, manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
* Able to learn and apply new technologies, analytical methods, reporting requirements, maintain accuracy, attention to detail, and compliance with ethical and legal standards.
Job Duty
Provide leadership and coordination for maternal and child health research and evaluation activities. Collaborate with executive leadership and project stakeholders to establish priorities, monitor deliverables, ensure compliance with grant and contract requirements, and support achievement of program goals.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 20
Job Duty
Lead the analysis and evaluation of large, complex datasets, including Medicaid claims, birth certificate data, hospital records, and other health-related data sources. Design and implement evaluation plans, reporting frameworks, and performance measures. Ensure validity, reliability, accuracy, and timeliness of analyses and deliverables. Translate findings into programmatic and policy recommendations and support dissemination through reports, presentations, and publications.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 35
Job Duty
Provide technical assistance, training, and consultation to funders, community partners, healthcare organizations, and governmental agencies. Serve on and facilitate committees and workgroups. Present research findings at meetings, conferences, and professional forums. Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships that support maternal and child health initiatives and research objectives.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 20
Job Duty
Supervise research and evaluation staff, assign and review work, manage project timelines and workloads, support training and professional development, and conduct performance evaluations. Ensure project activities are completed in accordance with established goals, timelines, and quality standards.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 20
Job Duty
Identify potential funding opportunities and contribute to the development of grant applications, contract proposals, scopes of work, and supporting documentation.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 5
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No
Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date 08/16/2026
Position End Date 09/29/2027
Job Open Date 07/09/2026
Job Close Date 08/10/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of thirty (30) business days on our job website. After thirty (30) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by August 10, 2026.
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Posting Number RTF00162PO26
USC Market Title Senior Research Associate
Business Title (Internal Title) MCH Lead Applied Researcher
Campus Columbia
Work County Richland
College/Division College of Social Work
Department COSW Institute for Families in Society
Anticipated Hiring Range Salary commensurate with qualifications
Location of Vacancy
Part/Full Time Full Time
Hours per Week 37.5
Work Schedule
* Monday through Friday, 8:30am until 5:00pm.
* Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Type of Staff Position Staff Research Grant (SRGP)
Basis 12 months
Job Search Category Other Professional
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
South Carolina Retirement Yes
State Insurance Programs Yes
Annual Leave Yes
Sick Leave Yes
Advertised Job Summary
The MCH Lead Evaluator and Applied Researcher will be a key player at IHPR, leading and supporting innovative healthcare and policy research initiatives. This position advances the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and children by coordinating evidence-informed health services and policy research to improve outcomes for medically underserved and at-risk populations.
By leveraging data-driven insights, this position will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of MCH services and policies, ensuring that every family receives the care and support they need to thrive. The importance of this role in shaping the future of MCH cannot be overstated, as it helps potential candidates feel valued and an integral member of the organization. A key component of this role is overseeing the design, development, and provision of technical assistance and evaluation for external and internal reporting required of existing and future MCH-related grants and contracts.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
Requires a Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in an area of research specialty and three or more years of job-related experience.
Preferred Qualifications
* Seven (7) or more years of experience conducting evaluation, applied research, or health services research.
* Experience in maternal and child health, public health, healthcare, or a related research environment.
* Three (3) or more years of experience working with Medicaid claims, birth certificate data, hospital records, or other large healthcare datasets.
* Experience designing and implementing program evaluations, performance measurement systems, and outcome assessments.
* Experience managing grants, contracts, research studies, or complex projects.
* History of leadership roles in health services research settings, preferably in maternal and child health.
* Supervisory or project leadership experience.
* Demonstrated success securing, supporting, or managing externally funded grants and contracts.
* Experience preparing technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs, presentations, or other dissemination products.
* Experience collaborating with government agencies, healthcare organizations, academic institutions, funders, and community partners.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
* Understanding of maternal and child health issues, healthcare delivery systems, health policy, and population health trends affecting women, infants, children, and families.
* Knowledge of research design, program evaluation methodologies, quality improvement principles, and performance measurement frameworks.
* Extensive knowledge of healthcare and public health data systems, including Medicaid claims, birth certificates, hospital records, and population-based surveys.
* Knowledge and experience with SAS.
* Proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analysis, interpretation of complex datasets, translating research findings into actionable recommendations for technical and non-technical audiences.
* Skilled in academic, technical, applied writing, presenting complex information and facilitating discussions with diverse stakeholders.
* Ability to establish and maintain collaborative partnerships with government agencies, healthcare organizations, funders, community organizations, supervise staff, coordinate project activities, provide technical leadership, manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
* Able to learn and apply new technologies, analytical methods, reporting requirements, maintain accuracy, attention to detail, and compliance with ethical and legal standards.
Job Duty
Provide leadership and coordination for maternal and child health research and evaluation activities. Collaborate with executive leadership and project stakeholders to establish priorities, monitor deliverables, ensure compliance with grant and contract requirements, and support achievement of program goals.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 20
Job Duty
Lead the analysis and evaluation of large, complex datasets, including Medicaid claims, birth certificate data, hospital records, and other health-related data sources. Design and implement evaluation plans, reporting frameworks, and performance measures. Ensure validity, reliability, accuracy, and timeliness of analyses and deliverables. Translate findings into programmatic and policy recommendations and support dissemination through reports, presentations, and publications.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 35
Job Duty
Provide technical assistance, training, and consultation to funders, community partners, healthcare organizations, and governmental agencies. Serve on and facilitate committees and workgroups. Present research findings at meetings, conferences, and professional forums. Develop and maintain collaborative partnerships that support maternal and child health initiatives and research objectives.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 20
Job Duty
Supervise research and evaluation staff, assign and review work, manage project timelines and workloads, support training and professional development, and conduct performance evaluations. Ensure project activities are completed in accordance with established goals, timelines, and quality standards.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 20
Job Duty
Identify potential funding opportunities and contribute to the development of grant applications, contract proposals, scopes of work, and supporting documentation.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 5
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No
Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date 08/16/2026
Position End Date 09/29/2027
Job Open Date 07/09/2026
Job Close Date 08/10/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of thirty (30) business days on our job website. After thirty (30) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by August 10, 2026.
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Research Scientist Job Roles in South Carolina
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Search Research Scientist Jobs in South CarolinaResearch Scientist Jobs in South Carolina: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for research scientists in South Carolina?
The most consistent research scientist visa sponsors in South Carolina include academic and medical institutions like Clemson University, the University of South Carolina, and MUSC, along with industry employers such as Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health in Athens-area operations and research contractors near the Savannah River Site. Larger pharmaceutical, biotech, and defense research organizations with a South Carolina presence have established sponsorship infrastructure and file H-1B visa petitions regularly.
Which visa types are most common for research scientist roles in South Carolina?
The H-1B is the most common work visa for research scientists in South Carolina, covering specialty occupations that require at least a bachelor's degree in a specific scientific field. University and national laboratory employers can file as cap-exempt institutions, bypassing the annual H-1B lottery. The O-1A is an option for scientists with recognized achievements, publications, or awards. Postdoctoral researchers frequently enter on J-1 visa exchange visitor visas before transitioning to employer-sponsored status.
Which cities in South Carolina have the most research scientist sponsorship jobs?
Columbia has the highest concentration, anchored by the University of South Carolina and state government research programs. Charleston is a growing hub driven by MUSC's clinical and biomedical research programs. The Aiken and Augusta corridor is significant for nuclear and environmental science roles tied to the Savannah River National Laboratory. Greenville sees activity in advanced manufacturing research, particularly through Clemson University's International Center for Automotive Research.
How to find research scientist visa sponsorship jobs in South Carolina?
Migrate Mate filters research scientist job listings specifically to employers in South Carolina who have a documented history of visa sponsorship, saving you time on roles that won't support international candidates. You can search by scientific discipline, location, and institution type to target positions at universities, national labs, and biotech firms. Migrate Mate also provides relevant visa context alongside listings so you understand the sponsorship pathway for each role.
What should international research scientists know before targeting South Carolina employers?
Cap-exempt status is a meaningful factor here: universities and affiliated nonprofit research organizations can file H-1B petitions year-round without lottery exposure, which makes institutions like Clemson, USC, and MUSC particularly accessible for international scientists. South Carolina also has a growing life sciences sector supported by state economic development incentives, which has attracted employers more accustomed to sponsoring specialized research talent. Postdoctoral pipelines at state universities often serve as an entry point to permanent research positions.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored research scientist jobs in South Carolina?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.