Researchers contribute to the development of knowledge, technology transfer and applications, in business and in all fields that contribute to the advancement of society. Another of their missions is to promote science and technology among the general public.
Within their laboratories, researchers supervise Ph.D. students and post-doctoral fellows in their field.
Researchers may also supervise research teams, lead scientific projects, teach, and participate in technology transfer based on their research results.
In certain cases, researchers dedicate part of their working time to managing and administrating research facilities.
Over the course of their career, they can also benefit from transfer opportunities within INSERM or to other research organizations, universities, businesses or administrations.
A INSERM researcher's main missions include:
Scientific production: articles in "primary" journals, books;
Finding applications for research results: patents, participating in conferences;
Dissemination of scientific information: popularization articles, informing the general public (through conferences, television or radio broadcasts);
Training through research: supervision of PhD students, interns, etc.
In parallel with these scientific production activities, the researcher can teach at the university level. Over the course of a career, the researcher will often be called upon to serve as a team leader, manage scientific projects and participate in administrative activities. He/she may also have the opportunity to register patents and licenses, contribute know-how to an existing company, or even set up his/her own business.
Further details:
Research Associates Dedicated to Biomedical Research at Inserm in France