A person who prepares investigative reports on equity securities. The research conducted by the research analyst is in an effort to inquire, examine, find or revise facts, principles and theories. The report that this analyst prepares could include an analysis of equity securities of companies or industries.

If the research analyst is involved with an investment bank or a securities firm controlled by a member organization of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), he may be required to take certain exam(s).

Research analysts might be required to take the Series 86/87 exam if they are involved with a member organization. The exam consists of two parts, fundamental analysis and valuation of equity, plus federal and industry rules and regulations. The analyst could also be a sole proprietor, partner, officer, director or branch manager of any FINRA member, or someone involved with a member firm of the National Futures Association who is required to be registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.