
Research historians study a range of subjects and objects, from ancient writings to modern texts, to better understand the history of the time and place in which they specialize. They compile and summarize this information to contribute to the overall story of humanity.
Job Description
Research historians must have excellent communication skills. They communicate with other historians, archivists and those requesting the research. Frequently they conduct interviews with field specialists and, in cases of recent history projects, eyewitnesses to events. They must also have excellent written communication skills to prepare reports on findings or write papers with the information gathered and compiled.
A keen sense of analytics is required of a research historian. Prior to accepting information, a research historian must be able to verify its authenticity or disregard it as hearsay. Multiple sources are sometimes needed to verify a single fact, so patience and diligence are valued. It is also beneficial to be able to differentiate between what is or isn't relevant to a specific project.
Researchers must be able to think outside the box. At times when a piece of information is required, it may be elusive and the research historian will need to use a level of creativity to track it down. Researchers may need to locate unexplored archives or identify rarely used resources in the search for information. Those with a strong sense of curiosity may excel in this field.
Some researchers work on a consultant or freelance basis. Others work for the government, schools and private institutions. Museums and historical societies also hire research historians for fact checking and information gathering, as well as verification processes.
Job Duties
For staff research historian positions, the researcher will need to be able to multi-task, often answering questions or consulting on more than one project at a time. Some projects may require travel and the researcher must be able to work on multiple projects while on the road. The ability to prioritize projects is an asset for staff research historians.
Research historians spend much of their time following up on leads and making sure requested information is received in a timely manner so as not to delay a project or deadline. Tracking requests, documenting timelines and checking on information bottlenecks plays a large role in a researcher's day.
Building relationships with sources is a key component of a researcher's duties. A research historian may need to use the same source for more than one project and displaying a pleasant demeanor during interactions will make the next contact easier.
Job Requirements
The majority of research historian positions insist on a master's degree in history as a foundation point. Many colleges and universities in the United States offer such degrees. A specific degree such as Asian history may allow the research historian a few opportunities, but a broad degree gives the prospective research historian more options when pursuing a career. Many positions, however, require a research historian to have a specific informational background or bailiwick. In such cases, having spent years of study and research on the subject may be considered of equal importance to having a specific degree.
Bachelor's Degree in History
Studying for this degree will give the student a broad arsenal of history, which may possibly lead to a focused course of study. Coursework includes western civilization, maritime history, magic and sorcery through history, world history, film, and women.
Master's Degree in History
Earning a master's degree in history will offer the student more in-depth studies. Most schools require a thesis as part of the final for attaining this degree, but there are exceptions. Coursework for a master's degree includes such things as modern history, teaching history, advanced placement classes and directed studies.
Ph.D. in History
Attaining a Ph.D. in history not only gives the student a leg up in the research field, it also qualifies a student to take a teaching position in an institution of higher learning. Some programs include apprenticeship positions with other teaching staff. This program will take the student's chosen focus and develop communication and research skills to their highest levels.