Historical Researcher

What is a historical researcher?

A historical researcher is someone who investigates and studies past events, people, and societies using various sources of information.

What does a historical researcher do?

Usually, a historical researcher does the following:

• Conducts extensive research using primary and secondary sources such as documents, diaries, newspapers, photographs, and artifacts.
• Analyzes and interprets historical data to draw conclusions about past events and their significance.
• Writes research papers, articles, or books based on their findings.
• Presents their research findings to academic or professional audiences through conferences or publications.

What does the day-to-day life of a historical researcher look like?

A historical researcher typically works between 9am and 5pm, but the hours can vary depending on the nature of the project they are working on. They spend a significant amount of time in libraries, archives, or museums conducting research. They also spend time analyzing and organizing the information they have collected to form a coherent narrative.

Where does a historical researcher work?

Historical researchers can work in various settings, including:

• Academic institutions: They can work in universities or research institutions, conducting research and teaching history to students.
• Museums and archives: They can work in museums or archival institutions, preserving and researching historical records and artifacts.
• Government agencies: They can work for government departments or agencies, conducting research for historical preservation or policymaking purposes.
• Private research organizations: They can work in private research organizations that provide historical research services to clients.

What tools/software/hardware does a historical researcher use?

A historical researcher uses a variety of tools including:

• Library resources: They make use of physical and digital library collections to access books, journals, and other relevant publications.
• Archival databases: They utilize online databases and catalogues to access historical documents and records.
• Computers and software: They use word processing software for writing and organizing their research, as well as citation management software to handle references.

What do I need to become a historical researcher?

There are a number of ways you can become a historical researcher, including:

• Bachelor's degree: Many historical researchers have a bachelor's degree in history or a related field. This provides a solid foundation in historical research methods and critical thinking skills.
• Master's or Ph.D. degree: Some researchers pursue advanced degrees to specialize in specific areas of history and enhance their research skills.
• Internships and volunteering: Gaining practical experience through internships or volunteering in historical institutions can be valuable in developing research skills and building professional networks.
• Continuing education: Staying updated with new research methods, technologies, and historical debates through workshops, conferences, and online courses can also enhance your skills as a historical researcher.

What career paths are available?

There are a number of career paths available to you as a historical researcher, including:

• Academic Historian: You can pursue a career as a professor or researcher in an academic institution, teaching history and conducting research.
• Archivist: You can work as an archivist, managing and preserving historical records and artifacts in museums, libraries, or archives.
• Museum Curator: You can become a museum curator, responsible for planning and organizing exhibitions and collections in museums.
• Historical Consultant: You can work as a historical consultant, providing research and expertise to organizations or individuals in need of historical information or analysis.

What jobs are similar to a historical researcher?

• Archaeologist: Excavating and analyzing artifacts and structures to learn about past civilizations.
• Genealogist: Tracing family histories and constructing family trees using historical records and documents.
• Museum Educator: Developing educational programs and materials based on historical artifacts and exhibitions.

What made you want to become a historical researcher?

How did you get your first historical researcher job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a historical researcher?

Are you a historical researcher? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to historical research. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.