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How to Become a Biomedical Scientist / Researcher

Conduct research to advance understanding of living organisms and develop medical treatments. It typically requires a master's or doctoral degree, with a median salary of $103,410 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.

Median pay

$103,410/yr

Typical range

$64,800 to $177,780

Job growth

7%

Openings / yr

9,600

Majors that lead here

Key skills

  • Laboratory Research
  • Data Analysis
  • Scientific Writing
  • Cell Biology
  • Genetics

Helpful certifications

  • ASCP Certification (for clinical lab)
  • NIH Grant Writing

Is this career a fit?

Remote-friendly

35/100

Work-life balance

65/100

Stress level

40/100

Satisfaction

80/100

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Biomedical Scientist / Researcher make?

The median pay for a Biomedical Scientist / Researcher is $103,410 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $64,800 to $177,780, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do you need to become a Biomedical Scientist / Researcher?

The usual entry point is a master's or doctoral degree. Common majors are Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology, and Chemistry.

Is Biomedical Scientist / Researcher a growing field?

The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 9,600 U.S. openings a year.

What skills does a Biomedical Scientist / Researcher use most?

Common skills for this role are Laboratory Research, Data Analysis, Scientific Writing, Cell Biology, and Genetics.

Planning to become a Biomedical Scientist / Researcher?

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Salary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.