How to become a research and development manager
Delve into the exciting field of new product and service development.
What does a research and development manager do?
R&D managers coordinate the research and development departments of businesses and other organisations. They typically oversee the work of a team in their quest for innovation. Whilst R&D managers’ work is administrative and interpersonal in nature, there are opportunities for research project development, reporting and presenting.
Duties and tasks
- Seek R&D opportunities and develop strategies.
- Manage a team of researchers and development officers and supervise work output.
- Upon completion of research projects, document and publish results for internal or external use.
- Stay on top of research findings, then advise on product or service adjustments and policy changes.
- Work with other departmental staff to identify greatest research and development targets and priorities.
- Work within a budget to decide which research and development projects are most worthwhile for the overall benefit to be gained by the organisation.
Industry bodies
Related jobs
Discover related courses
UndergraduateGRF-BUS-DEG
Get the professional skills employers are looking for
Learn how organisations work and visualise where you fit in. Get familiar with financial documents, risk, and business comms. This business course gives you a 360-degree view of business strategy. Specialisations include marketing and management.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Available majors
- Marketing,
- Human Resource Management,
- Management,
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship,
- Sport Management,
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management,
- International Business,
- Political Science and International Relations,
- Contemporary Marketing,
- Strategic Communication (second major only)
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
PostgraduateRMI-BAD-GCE
Step into the world of business leadership
This course builds your skills to solve real-world business problems. You’ll learn to lead with confidence and create a better future. Get innovative. Use data. Practice teamwork. Skill up for your future as CEO, entrepreneur, or changemaker.
- Study method
- 100% online
Graduate Certificate of Business Administration
PostgraduateTUA-CBA-GCE
Learn to lead people and teams
Improve your business acumen with this top ranked online business course. Enjoy flexible study options and guaranteed entry to further study. Future-proof your career as you build leadership skills guided by academics and industry partners.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration
PostgraduateQUT-BAD-GCE
Build recognised business credentials
Study at a triple-accredited business school while developing strong leadership and systems thinking skills. Graduate equipped to lead teams, guide strategy and deliver measurable business outcomes. Unlock career opportunities and a pathway to your MBA.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent

Need help making study choices for your career?
Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.
They'll help you with:
- Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.
- Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.
- Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.
Get unbiased advice at no cost today.
Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us
Step up your career with these resources

How to write a business plan
Thinking about striking out on your own and starting your own company? Here's how to create an effective business plan.

5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.

How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.

Is a career in project management right for you?
Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager.