sample cover letter for researcher job

Researcher Cover Letter Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout researcher cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

As a talented and dedicated researcher, your cover letter plays a crucial role in showcasing your skills, experience, and passion for the job. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential for success in this competitive field. Our comprehensive guide provides you with the tools and insights you need to craft a compelling cover letter that will impress potential employers and land you the research positions you desire.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• Why you should use a cover letter template

Related Cover Letter Examples

• Control Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Asic Verification Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Tool Designer Cover Letter Sample
• Engineering Technician Cover Letter Sample
• Processor Cover Letter Sample
• Usability Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Network Design Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Quality Control Technician Cover Letter Sample
• Field Application Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Chemical Process Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Lab Chemist Cover Letter Sample
• QA Automation Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Geneticist Cover Letter Sample
• Service Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Physical Scientist Cover Letter Sample
• Proposal Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Semiconductor Process Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Helicopter Pilot Cover Letter Sample
• Research And Development Engineer Cover Letter Sample
• Junior Architect Cover Letter Sample

Researcher Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the Researcher position at your esteemed organization. With a strong background in conducting academic and market research, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team and deliver valuable insights.

During my tenure as a Research Assistant at XYZ University, I cultivated a deep understanding of research methodologies and data analysis techniques. I have successfully designed and executed several research projects, including surveys, interviews, and experiments. My proficiency in statistical analysis software such as SPSS and SAS has enabled me to interpret complex data sets and draw meaningful conclusions.

In addition to my academic research experience, I have also gained practical insight into market research through internships at prominent firms. I have conducted competitive analysis, demographic studies, and customer satisfaction surveys, providing valuable insights that have informed strategic business decisions. My ability to synthesize diverse sources of information and present findings in a clear and compelling manner has been highly regarded by my colleagues and supervisors.

I am passionate about exploring new ideas and solving complex problems through research. I am particularly interested in the opportunity to contribute to your organization's ongoing projects and drive innovation through evidence-based decision making. I am dedicated to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and ethical conduct in all of my research endeavors.

Furthermore, I possess strong communication and collaboration skills, which have been instrumental in my ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. I am adept at tailoring research methodologies to suit specific project objectives and have a track record of meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work under pressure.

I am excited about the possibility of bringing my expertise to your organization and contributing to the advancement of knowledge and innovation. I am eager to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your team and am available at your earliest convenience for an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Researcher Cover Letter?

• Introduce Yourself: A cover letter allows you to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and provide a brief overview of your qualifications and experience.
• Show Interest: It gives you the opportunity to express your interest in the researcher position and the organization you are applying to.
• Highlight Skills and Experience: Your cover letter should include specific examples of your research skills and experience that make you a strong candidate for the position.
• Personalize Your Application: A well-crafted cover letter can help personalize your application and make you stand out from other candidates.
• Demonstrate Writing Skills: As a researcher, your cover letter is also a chance to showcase your writing skills and attention to detail.
• Explain Gaps or Transitions: If you have any gaps in your work history or are transitioning to a new field, a cover letter provides an opportunity to explain these circumstances to the employer.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Address the letter to the specific hiring manager or research team leader.
• Clearly state your interest in the specific research position and how it aligns with your career goals.
• Highlight your relevant research experience and skills, including any publications or presentations.
• Explain how your research interests and expertise align with the goals and focus of the hiring organization.
• Discuss any specific research projects or initiatives that you have been involved in that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the research team.
• Clearly articulate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and your commitment to contributing to the organization's research goals.
• End the letter with a strong closing statement, reiterating your interest in the position and willingness to discuss further in an interview.

What's The Best Structure For Researcher Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Researcher resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Researcher cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Researcher Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Researcher position at your organization. With a strong background in conducting research and analyzing data, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and stating the purpose of the letter. Mention where you found the job posting and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
• Background: Provide a brief overview of your education and experience related to research. Highlight any specific skills or qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position.
• Relevant Experience: Share specific examples of research projects you have worked on in the past, emphasizing the impact of your work and any relevant findings. If you have publications or presentations, mention them briefly here.
• Fit for the Position: Explain why you are interested in the specific organization and how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the Researcher role. Show your knowledge of the company and how you see yourself contributing to its mission and goals.
• Closing: Conclude by expressing your strong interest in the position and your enthusiasm for the opportunity to further discuss how you can contribute to the organization. Thank the reader for their time and consideration.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my passion for research and dedication to excellence to your team. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your organization and am available at your earliest convenience for an interview. Please find my resume attached for your review.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Researcher Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Being too generic and not tailoring the cover letter to the specific research position or organization
• Failure to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and research interests
• Not addressing the hiring manager or using a generic salutation
• Using vague language and not providing concrete examples of your achievements and qualifications
• Ignoring the importance of proofreading and editing for grammar and spelling errors
• Exceeding the one-page limit for a cover letter and providing unnecessary details
• Not formatting the cover letter professionally or using a non-standard font and layout
• Focusing too much on your own needs and not demonstrating your knowledge of the organization and how you can contribute to their goals
• Using overly complex or technical language that may be difficult for the hiring manager to understand
• Not following the application instructions or including requested documents and information

Key Takeaways For a Researcher Cover Letter

• Demonstrate research expertise and experience
• Highlight relevant publications and projects
• Showcase communication and collaboration skills
• Express passion for the field of research
• Outline specific contributions to the team or organization

13 Professional Researcher Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your researcher cover letter must showcase your academic excellence and research skills. Highlight your publications or any relevant projects that demonstrate expertise in your field. Connect your past experiences with the potential role, indicating how they make you an ideal candidate. It's crucial to convey your passion for the subject and how you can contribute valuable insights to the team.

All cover letter examples in this guide

UX Researcher

Product Researcher

Design Researcher

Market Researcher

Quantitative Researcher

Lab Researcher

User Researcher

Undergraduate Researcher

Psychology Researcher

Student Researcher

Machine Learning Researcher

Qualitative Researcher

Cover letter guide.

Researcher Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Researcher Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on the job hunt, you’ve likely discovered the need to complement your resume with a researcher cover letter—a daunting task for many. Surpassing the routine checklist of your resume, your cover letter should weave a compelling narrative around your proudest professional milestone. It must strike the delicate balance between formal tone and original expression, avoiding overused phrases that dull your accomplishments. Keep it concise; this powerful one-pager is your chance to captivate and convince.

• Personalize the greeting to address the recruiter and your introduction that fits the role;
• Follow good examples for individual roles and industries from job-winning cover letters;
• Decide on your most noteworthy achievement to stand out;
• Format, download, and submit your researcher cover letter, following the best HR practices.

Use the power of Enhancv's AI: drag and drop your researcher resume, which will swiftly be converted into your job-winning cover letter.

If the researcher isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Researcher resume guide and example
• Clinical Research Assistant cover letter example
• Research Associate cover letter example
• Lab Assistant cover letter example
• Undergraduate Research Assistant cover letter example
• Lab Technician cover letter example
• Entry Level Chemist cover letter example
• Biology cover letter example
• Research Assistant cover letter example
• Scientist cover letter example
• Research Manager cover letter example

Researcher cover letter example

Samuel Moore

Columbus, Ohio

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Demonstration of past experience relevant to the role, such as leading a comprehensive evaluation of digital resources, indicates the candidate's ability to perform similar tasks at Ithaka S+R.
• Quantifiable achievements in previous roles, like improving project efficiency by 25%, show the candidate's potential to add measurable value to Ithaka S+R's projects.
• Alignment with the organization's mission, seen in the candidate's expression of shared goals regarding academic growth and equity, suggests a good fit with the team and its objectives.
• Mention of specific skills, such as advanced qualitative methodologies and strategic project management, matches the skill set required for a successful researcher at Ithaka S+R.

The must-have sections and format of your researcher cover letter

When writing your researcher cover letter, keep in mind that it'll only be read by the recruiters and not the Applicant Tracker System (or software used to assess your profile). That's why you should structure your content with a/an:

• Header (apart from your contact information, include your name, the role you're applying for, and the date);
• Personalized salutation;
• Opening paragraph to win the recruiters over;
• Middle paragraph with key details;
• Closing that starts from clichés;
• Sign off (that's not mandatory).

Industry standards dictate your paragraphs to be single-spaced and to wrap your content in a one-inch margin. Designing your researcher cover letter, refer to one of our templates , which automatically takes care of the spacing and margins.

Choose the same font for your researcher cover letter as you did for your resume : the likes of Lato and Bitter would help you to stand out in a sea of cover letters in Arial or Times New Roman.

Export your whole researcher cover letter from our builder in PDF to keep the same formatting and image quality.

The top sections on a researcher cover letter

• Header: Include your contact information, the date, and the employer's contact information, ensuring you can be easily reached for follow-up and portraying a professional format specific to researchers who value detail orientation.
• Greeting: Address the hiring manager or committee directly, if known, to show you've done your research, which is a critical skill for any research position.
• Introduction: Clearly state the research position you're applying for, mention how you found the job listing, and include a hook that summarizes your enthusiasm and fit for the role, demonstrating your genuine interest and initiative in the field.
• Body: Detail your previous research experience, publications, and how your skills align with the job requirements, showing that you can contribute significantly to the ongoing projects or academic pursuits of the organization.
• Closing: Express your eagerness to discuss further how you can contribute to the team, thank the reader for considering your application, and indicate that you have attached your CV or any relevant publications, establishing a call-to-action and preparation for the next steps.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

Proven track record in conducting independent research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals: It demonstrates the ability to contribute to the scientific community with original findings.

Expertise in specialized techniques or methodologies unique to the field: This shows the candidate possesses the technical skills necessary to perform and contribute to cutting-edge research.

Successful grant writing experience: Securing funding is critical for research; this skill indicates the candidate can attract the necessary resources to support their work.

Prior involvement in collaborative projects with multidisciplinary teams: Research increasingly requires collaboration across various disciplines, so the ability to work with diverse teams is highly valued.

Evidence of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities: Researchers must be able to tackle complex problems, analyze data, and draw meaningful conclusions that propel the field forward.

Strong communication skills, both written and oral: The ability to effectively communicate research findings to a wide range of audiences, including non-specialists, is essential for disseminating knowledge and advancing one's career in academia or industry.

How to start your researcher cover letter: with a greeting, of course

Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?

We sure have news for you! Your researcher cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.

Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.

Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.

"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your researcher cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Professor [Last Name],
• Dear Hiring Committee,
• Dear Search Committee,
• Dear [Full Name],
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],

Using your researcher cover letter intro to show your dedication

We know just how difficult it is to start writing your researcher cover letter introduction .

There are so many great qualities you have as a professional, which one should you choose?

How about writing up to two sentences about your passion and commitment to the work you do or are set to do?

Try to describe exactly what you enjoy about the potential role.

A positive attitude from the get-go will help you stand out as a motivated researcher professional.

Choosing your best achievement for the middle or body of your researcher cover letter

Now that you have the recruiters' attention, it's time to write the chunkiest bit of your researcher cover letter .

The body consists of three to six paragraphs that focus on one of your achievements.

Use your past success to tell a story of how you obtained your most job-crucial skills and know-how (make sure to back these up with tangible metrics).

Another excellent idea for your researcher cover letter's middle paragraphs is to shine a light on your unique professional value.

Write consistently and make sure to present information that is relevant to the role.

Finishing off your researcher cover letter with what matters most

So far, you've done a fantastic job in tailoring your researcher cover letter for the role and recruiter.

Your final opportunity to make a good impression is your closing paragraph.

And, no, a "Sincerely yours" just won't do, as it sounds too vague and impersonal.

End your researcher cover letter with the future in mind.

So, if you get this opportunity, what do you plan to achieve? Be as specific, as possible, of what value you'd bring to the organization.

You could also thank recruiters for their interest in your profile and prompt for follow-up actions (and organizing your first interview).

Researcher cover letter advice for candidates with no experience

If you're worried about writing your Researcher cover letter and have no professional experience , we sure have some advice for you.

Turn recruiters' attention to your transferable or relevant skills gained thanks to your life and work experience.

Instead of writing about past jobs, focus on one achievement (whether from your volunteering experience, education, etc.) and the skills it has helped you build.

Alternatively, you could focus your Researcher cover letter on your career objectives and goals. Always remember to make those relevant to the job you're applying for by detailing how you see yourself growing as part of the company.

Recruiters would be way more impressed with candidates who fit the job profile and can bring about plenty of skills and vision to the table.

Key takeaways

Summarizing the most important aspects in writing your researcher cover letter, remember to:

• Create a personalized researcher cover letter for each role you apply for, that includes the recruiter's name in the salutation;
• Format your researcher cover letter with single-spacing, one-inch margins, and a modern, yet ATS-friendly font;
• Always start off your researcher cover letter with two sentences that reflect what is most important about your application;
• Your researcher cover letter body should feature your biggest accomplishments and the job-relevant skills it has taught you;
• Instead of opting for the "Sincerely yours" ending, close your researcher cover letter with a nod to the future with what you aim to achieve in this potential role.

Researcher cover letter examples

Explore additional researcher cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

Microsoft Word Resume Templates

40+ resume tips and advice for 2024, 129+ resume objective examples and how-to guide for 2024, should you include an “about me” section in your resume, what to name your resume file, first job jitters: how long should you stay at your first job.

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Examples
• Resume Templates
• Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• AI Resume Review
• Resume Skills
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Resume Guides
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

• Extremes and Natural Hazards
• Adaptation Science
• Earth Data Across Scales
• Earth Data Science Education
• Earth Analytics
• Landscape Dynamics
• Partnerships
• Earth Analytics Professional Certificate
• Environmental Data Science Seminar Series
• Post Docs and Graduate Students
• Earth Data Science Corps
• How to Engage
• Learning Portal

How to Write a Good Cover Letter for a Research Position

Writing a cover letter can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be!

Some people believe cover letters are a science. Others seem to think they are more akin to black magic. Regardless of how you feel about cover letters, they are one of the most important parts of the job application process. Your resume or CV may get you an interview, but a good cover letter is what ensures that the hiring manager reads your resume in the first place.

Writing a cover letter for any job is important, but the art of writing a good cover letter for a research position can make or break your application. While writing a cover letter for a research position, you have to walk a fine line of proving your expertise and passion while limiting jargon and dense language.

In this post, we will explain cover letter writing basics, and then dive into how to write a research specific cover letter with examples of both good and bad practices.

What Is A Cover Letter and Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

A cover letter is your opportunity to tell a story and connect the dots of your resume. Resumes and curriculum vitae (CVs) are often cold and static—they don’t show any sort of character that will give companies a hint about if you will fit in with their culture. 

Your cover letter gives you the chance to demonstrate that you are an interesting, qualified, and intelligent person. Without proving that you are worth the time to interview, a company or research organization will set your application in the rejection pile without giving it a second look. 

So, what is a cover letter, exactly? It is an explanation (written out in paragraph form) of what you can bring to the company that goes beyond the information in your resume. Cover letters give a company a glimpse into the qualities that will make you the ideal candidate for their opening. 

Note that a cover letter is not the same as a letter of intent. A cover letter is written for a specific job opening. For example, if I got an email saying that the University of Colorado was looking for a tenure track faculty member to teach GEO 1001, and I chose to apply, I would write a cover letter. 

A letter of intent, however, is written regardless of the job opening. It is intended to express an interest in working at a particular company or with a particular group. The goal of a letter of intent is to demonstrate your interest in the company (or whatever type of group you are appealing to) and illustrate that you are willing to work with them in whatever capacity they feel is best. 

For example, if I loved the clothing company, Patagonia and wanted to work there, I could write a letter of intent. They may have an opening for a sales floor associate, but after reading my application and letter of intent, decide I would be better suited to a design position. Or, they may not have any positions open at all, but choose to keep my resume on hand for the next time they do. 

Most organizations want a cover letter, not a letter of intent, so it is important to make sure your cover letter caters to the specifics of the job posting. A cover letter should also demonstrate why you want to work at the company, but it should be primarily focused on why you can do the job better than any of the other applicants.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter: The Basics 

Writing a cover letter isn’t hard. Writing a good cover letter, a cover letter that will encourage a hiring manager to look at your application and schedule an interview, is more difficult (but certainly not impossible). Below, we will go over each of the important parts of a cover letter: the salutation, introduction, body, and conclusion, as well as some other best practices.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Salutation

Don’t start with “Dear Sir/Ma’am” (or any iteration of a vague greeting, including “to whom it may concern”). Avoiding vague greetings is the oldest trick in the book, but it still holds a lot of weight. Starting a cover letter with the above phrase is pretty much stamping “I didn’t bother to research this company at all because I am sending out a million generic cover letters” across your application. It doesn’t look good. 

The best practice is to do your research and use your connections to find a name. “Dear Joe McGlinchy” means a lot more than “Dear Hiring Manager.” LinkedIn is a great tool for this—you can look up the company, then look through the employees until you find someone that seems like they hire for the relevant department. 

The most important thing about the salutation is to address a real human. By selecting someone in the company, you’ve demonstrated that you’ve done some research and are actually interested in this company specifically. Generic greetings aren’t eye-catching and don’t do well.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Introduction

Once you’ve addressed your cover letter to a real human being, you need a powerful introduction to prove that this cover letter is worth the time it will take to read. This means that you need a hook. 

Your first sentence needs to be a strong starter, something to encourage the hiring manager not only to continue reading the cover letter, but to look at your application as well. If you have a contact in the company, you should mention them in the first sentence. Something along the lines of “my friend, Amanda Rice (UX/UI manager), suggested I apply for the natural language processing expert position after we worked together on a highly successful independent project.” 

The example above uses a few techniques. The name drop is good, but that only works if you actually have a connection in the company. Beyond that, this example has two strengths. First, it states the name of the position. This is important because hiring managers can be hiring for several different positions at a time, and by immediately clarifying which position you are applying for, you make their job a little bit easier.  Next, this sentence introduces concrete skills that apply to the job. That is a good way to start because it begins leading into the body, where you will go into depth about how exactly your experience and skills make you perfect for the job. 

Another technique for a strong lead-in to a cover letter is to begin with an applicable personal experience or anecdote. This attracts more attention than stereotypical intros (like the example above), but you have to be careful to get to the point quickly. Give yourself one or two sentences to tell the story and prove your point before you dive into your skills and the main body of the cover letter.

A more standard technique for introductions is simply expressing excitement. No matter how you choose to start, you want to demonstrate that you are eager about the position, and there is no easier way to do that than just saying it. This could take the form of “When I saw the description for X job on LinkedIn, I was thrilled: it is the perfect job for my Y skills and Z experience.” This option is simple and to-the-point, which can be refreshing for time-crunched hiring managers. 

Since we’ve provided a few good examples, we will offer a bad example, so you can compare and contrast. Don’t write anything along the line of: “My name is John Doe, and I am writing to express my interest in the open position at your company.” 

There are a few issues here. First, they can probably figure out your name. You don’t need that to be in the first sentence (or any of the sentences—the closing is an obvious enough spot). Next, “the open position” and “your company” are too generic. That sounds like the same cover letter you sent to every single employer in a hundred mile radius. Give the specifics! Finally, try to start with a little more spice. Add in some personality, something to keep the hiring manager reading. If you bore them to death in the first line, they aren’t going to look over your resume and application with the attention they deserve. 

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Body

So, you’ve addressed a real human being, and you’ve snagged their attention with a killer opening line. What next? Well, you have to hold on to that attention by writing an engaging and informative cover letter body. 

The body of a cover letter is the core of the important information you want to transmit. The introduction’s job was to snag the attention of the hiring manager. The body’s job is to sell them on your skills.  There are a few formatting things to be aware of before we start talking about what content belongs in the body of the cover letter. First, keep the company culture and standards in mind when picking a format. For example, if I want to work for a tech startup that is known for its wit and company culture, I can probably get away with using a bulleted list or another informal format. However, if I am applying to a respected research institution, using a standard five paragraph format is best. 

In addition, the cover letter should not be longer than a page. Hiring managers are busy people. They may have hundreds of resumes to read, so they don’t need a three page essay per person. A full page is plenty, and many hiring managers report finding three hundred words or less to be the idea length. Just to put that into context, the text from here to the “How to Write a Good Cover Letter Body” header below is about perfect, length-wise. 

Now, on to the more important part: the content. A cover letter should work in tandem with a resume. If you have a list of job experiences on your resume, don’t list them again in the cover letter. Use the valuable space in the cover letter to give examples about how you have applied your skills and experience. 

For example, if I have worked as a barista, I wouldn’t just say “I have worked as a barista at Generic Cafe.” The hiring manager could learn that from my resume. Instead, I could say “Working as a barista at Generic Cafe taught me to operate under pressure without feeling flustered. Once…” I would go on to recount a short story that illustrated my ability to work well under pressure. It is important that the stories and details you choose to include are directly related to the specific job. Don’t ramble or add anything that isn’t obviously connected. Use the job description as a tool—if it mentions a certain skill a few times, make sure to include it!

If you can match the voice and tone of your cover letter to the voice of the company, that usually earns you extra points. If, in their communications, they use wit, feel free to include it in your letter as well. If they are dry, to the point, and serious, cracking jokes is not the best technique.

A Few Don’ts of Writing a Cover Letter Body   

There are a few simple “don’ts” in cover letter writing. Do not: 

• Bad: I am smart, dedicated, determined, and funny.
• Better: When I was working at Tech Company, I designed and created an entirely new workflow that cut the product delivery time in half. 
• Bad: When I was seven, I really loved the monkeys at the zoo. This demonstrates my fun-loving nature. 
• Better: While working for This Company, I realized I was far more productive if I was light-hearted. I became known as the person to turn to in my unit when my coworkers needed a boost, and as my team adopted my ideology, we exceeded our sales goals by 200%. 
• Bad: I would love this job because it would propel me to the next stage of my career.
• Better: With my decade of industry experience communicating with engineers and clients, I am the right person to manage X team. 
• Bad: I know I’m not the most qualified candidate for this job, but…
• Better: I can apply my years of experience as an X to this position, using my skills in Y and Z to… 
• Bad: I am a thirty year old white woman from Denver…
• Better: I have extensive experience managing diverse international teams, as illustrated by the time I…  

The most important part of the cover letter is the body. Sell your skills by telling stories, but walk the razor’s edge between saying too much and not enough. When in doubt, lean towards not enough—it is better for the hiring manager to call you in for an interview to learn more than to bore them.

How to Write a Good Cover Letter Conclusion

 The last lines of a cover letter are extremely important. Until you can meet in-person for an interview, the conclusion of your cover letter will greatly affect the impression the hiring manager has of you. A good technique for concluding your cover letter is to summarize, in a sentence, what value you can bring to the company and why you are perfect for the position. Sum up the most important points from your cover letter in a short, concise manner. 

Write with confidence, but not arrogance. This can be a delicate balance. While some people have gotten away (and sometimes gotten a job) with remarks like, “I’ll be expecting the job offer soon,” most do not. Closing with a courteous statement that showcases your capability and skills is far more effective than arrogance. Try to avoid trite or generic statements in the closing sentence as well. This includes the template, “I am very excited to work for XYZ Company.” Give the hiring manager something to remember and close with what you can offer the company. 

The final step in any cover letter is to edit. Re-read your cover letter. Then, set it aside for a few hours (or days, time permitting) and read it again. Give it to a friend to read. Read it aloud. This may seem excessive, but there is nothing more off-putting than a spelling or grammar error in the first few lines of a cover letter. The hiring manager may power through and ignore it, but it will certainly taint their impression. 

Once the cover letter is as flawless and compelling as it can be, send it out! If you are super stuck on how to get started, working within a template may help. Microsoft Word has many free templates that are aesthetically appealing and can give you a hint to the length and content. A few good online options live here (free options are at the bottom—there is no reason to pay for a resume template).

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Research Position

Writing a cover letter for a research position is the same as writing any other cover letter. There are, however, a few considerations and additions that are worth pointing out. A job description may not directly ask for a cover letter, but it is good practice to send one unless they specifically say not to. This means that even if a cover letter isn’t mentioned, you should send one—it is best practice and gives you an opportunity to expand on your skills and research in a valuable way.

Format and Writing Style for a Research Position Cover Letter

Research and academics tend to appreciate formality more than start-ups or tech companies, so using the traditional five paragraph format is typically a good idea. The five paragraph format usually includes an introduction, three short examples of skills, and a concluding paragraph. This isn’t set in stone—if you’d rather write two paragraphs about the skills and experience you bring to the company, that is fine. 

Keep in mind that concise and to-the-point writing is extremely valuable in research. Anyone who has ever written a project proposal under 300 words knows that every term needs to add value. Proving that you are a skilled writer, starting in your cover letter, will earn you a lot of points. This means that cover letters in research and academia, though you may have more to say, should actually be shorter than others. Think of the hiring manager—they are plowing through a massive stack of verbose, technical, and complex cover letters and CVs. It is refreshing to find an easy to read, short cover letter. 

On the “easy to read” point, remember that the hiring manager may not be an expert in your field. Even if they are, you cannot assume that they have the exact same linguistic and educational background as you. For example, if you have dedicated the last five years of your life to studying a certain species of bacteria that lives on Red-Eyed Tree Frogs, all of those technical terms you have learned (and maybe even coined) have no place in your cover letter. Keep jargon to an absolute minimum. Consider using a tool like the Hemingway Editor to identify and eliminate jargon. While you want to reduce jargon, it is still important to prove that you’ve researched their research. Passion about the research topic is one of the most valuable attributes that a new hire can offer. 

Use your cover letter to prove that you have done your homework, know exactly what the institution or group is doing, and want to join them. If you have questions about the research or want to learn more, it isn’t a bad idea to get in touch with one of the researchers. You can often use LinkedIn or the group’s staff site to learn who is working on the project and reach out.

What Research Information Should be Included in a Cover Letter

A research position cover letter is not the place for your academic history, dissertation, or publications. While it may be tempting to go into detail about the amazing research you did for your thesis, that belongs in your CV. Details like this will make your cover letter too long. While these are valuable accomplishments, don’t include them unless there is something  that pertains to the group’s research, and your CV doesn’t cover it in depth. 

If you do choose to write about your research, write about concrete details and skills that aren’t in your CV. For example, if you have spent the last few years working on identifying the effects of a certain gene sequence in bird migration, include information about the lab techniques you used. Also, try to put emphasis on the aspects of your resume and CV that make you stand out from other candidates. It is likely that you will be competing with many similarly qualified candidates, so if you have a unique skill or experience, make sure it doesn’t get lost in the chaos—a cover letter is the perfect place to highlight these sorts of skills. 

Industry experience is a great differentiator. If you have relevant industry experience, make sure to include it in your cover letter because it will almost certainly set you apart. Another valuable differentiator is a deep and established research network. If you have been working on research teams for years and have deep connections with other scientists, don’t be afraid to include this information. This makes you a very valuable acquisition for the company because you come with an extensive network

Include Soft Skills in Your Cover Letter

Scientific skills aren’t the only consideration for hiring managers. Experience working with and leading teams is incredibly valuable in the research industry. Even if the job description doesn’t mention teamwork, add a story or description of a time you worked with (or, even better, lead) a successful team. Soft skills like management, customer service, writing, and clear communication are important in research positions. Highlight these abilities and experiences in your cover letter in addition to the hard skills and research-based information. 

If you are struggling to edit and polish your letter, give it to both someone within your field and someone who is completely unfamiliar with your research (or, at least, the technical side of it). Once both of those people say that the letter makes sense and is compelling, you should feel confident submitting it.

Cover letters are intended to give hiring managers information beyond what your resume and CV are able to display. Write with a natural but appropriately formal voice, do your research on the position, and cater to the job description. A good cover letter can go a long way to getting you an interview, and with these tips, your cover letters will certainly stand out of the pile.

Related Articles

Lowering barriers to learning and teaching data science.

Nathan A. Quarderer

EDA Student Final Presentations

Casey Jenson

Elsa Culler

Katherine Halama

Writing Engaging Science Blogs

Certificate form.

Researcher cover letter examples

Your head is already bursting with knowledge, but you love nothing more than doing your research and gathering new information.

Well, it’s time to put those research skills to use to find out more about the company and what the employer expects from your application.

In our guide below, we’ll show you what to include in your cover letter and how to use your research to your advantage. Check out our top tips and researcher cover letter examples below.

CV templates 

Researcher cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Researcher cover letter example 2

Researcher cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Researcher cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a Researcher cover letter

Here’s how you can write your own eye-catching cover letter, broken down into simple steps.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of Researcher with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The bulk of your cover letter should be focused around highlighting your suitability for the job you are applying to.

Doing this will show the recruiter that you are suitable candidate and encourage them to open your CV.

The best way to do this, is by studying the job advert you are applying to, and find out what the most important skills and knowledge are.

Once you know the most important requirements, you then need to highlight your matching skills to the recruiter. In a few sentences, tell them exactly why you are a good fit for the job and what you can offer the company.

Keep it short and sharp

When sending a job application to a recruiter or hiring manager, it is important to remember that they will normally be very busy and pushed for time.

Therefore, you need to get you message across to them quickly (in a matter of seconds ideally). So, keep your cover letter short and to-the-point. A long waffling cover letter will overwhelm recruiters when they are running through hundreds of emails in there inbox, but a concise one will get their attention.

So, keep your cover letter to just a few sentences long, and save the extensive detail for your CV.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Researcher cover letter

Your Researcher cover letter will be unique to your situation, but there are certain content guidelines you should stick to for best results.

To attract and entice recruiters, stick with the following key subjects in your cover letter – adapting them to fit your profession and target jobs.

• Your professional experience – Employers will be keen to know if your experience is suitable for the job you are applying to, so provide a good summary of it in your cover letter.
• Your qualifications and education – Highlight your most relevant and high-level of qualification, especially if they are essential to the job.
• The positive impact you have made – Employers love to hear about the benefits you can bring to them, so shout about anything impressive you have done, such as saving money or improving processes.
• Your reasons for leaving – Use a few words of your cover letter to explain why you are leaving your current job and ensure you avoid any negative reasons.
• Your availability – Let recruiters know when you can start a new job . Are you immediately available, or do you have a month notice period?

Researcher cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Researcher cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Good morning, Layla

Attached you will find my CV in application for the Graduate Researcher position at Aspire Ltd, as advertised on Glassdoor. With a BSc in Mathematics and a passion for pushing the boundaries of knowledge, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team’s research endeavours.

During my studies at the University of London, I developed a passion for computational sciences and statistical techniques. My coursework in equipped me with strong analytical and critical thinking skills, which I am eager to apply to real-world research projects.

I completed an 8-month internship at Crown Continental Limited, where I helped improve data processing efficiency by 35% through collaborating with team members in developing a custom software tool for automating complex mathematical simulations. In addition, I was pivotal in finalising five major projects one week ahead of schedule on average.

I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills to towards exploring new avenues of inquiry. Feel free to reach out to me via email or phone, as I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards

James Doyle

Good day Shaun

I am writing to apply for the Researcher position at Revealing Reality. With 8 years of experience in designing/conducting impactful social studies, I am excited about contributing my insights to your team.

Throughout my career working for the UK Innovation Group, I have focused on qualitative research, survey creation and data analysis to investigate the interactions between individuals, and characteristics, structures, and functions of diverse populations/institutions, such as families, communities, schools, workplaces, as well as physical, economic, cultural, and policy environments.

My contributions to numerous large-scale projects enabled me to secure £4M and £2M respectively for studies that uncovered significant findings concerning adequate standards of living and rights to food. Furthermore, I collaborated with colleagues in enhancing participant satisfaction by 10%+ through offering incentives and holding their interest for the duration of various studies.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me to discuss how my qualifications and competencies make me the idea candidate for the role. I am flexible with my schedule and can accommodate an interview at a time that works best for you.

Alexander Perry

I am pleased to reach out to you concerning the Senior Pharmaceutical Researcher position at Astra Zeneca. With extensive experience in designing, leading, and executing poignant drug development studies, I am confident in my ability to contribute actionable insights and innovation to your team.

Throughout my 18-year career working for Apollo Therapeutics, I have helped spearhead 2K+ diverse project initiatives, ranging from treatment creation, formulation optimisation, and clinical trials, where my supervision efforts resulted in the launch of numerous novel pharmaceutical products that led to the company gaining £150B in profits. Additionally, I guided manufacturing optimisation activities which increased production efficiency by 20%+ and lowered overall costs by 10%.

As a consummate professional, I also guarantee the successful processing of patent applications, regulatory approvals, while helping with the publication of papers in reputable journals.

Enclosed is my CV that outlines by comprehensive scientific qualifications, skills, and other achievements. Please let me know your preferred date and time for an interview, and I will ensure to be there promptly.

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Researcher job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!