Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists

Medical scientists spend their days investigating human health issues to develop new medical treatments and prevent diseases. Their daily tasks involve gathering information, analyzing complex data, and making critical decisions to solve medical problems. They must think creatively to design research studies, document their findings carefully, and work extensively with computers to process their results. Strong communication is essential, as these scientists must regularly share their progress with supervisors and team members.

To succeed in this investigative field, workers need deep knowledge in biology, chemistry, medicine, and mathematics. They must also be skilled in physics, computers, and administration. Important skills for this role include critical thinking, active learning, science, and complex problem-solving. Because their research impacts human health, these scientists must show high attention to detail, cautiousness, and integrity. They also need strong perseverance and intellectual curiosity to navigate long-term research projects.

Entering this career requires extensive preparation. The typical entry-level education is a doctoral or professional degree. Most professionals in this field need a graduate degree, such as a master's degree, a PhD, an MD, or a JD. Students preparing for this career often major in biology, biochemistry, public health, neurobiology, physiology, or pathology. Other relevant college majors include anthropology, ecology, and experimental psychology.

Depending on the specific job duties and location, some states list a license for this work. Additionally, professionals can pursue voluntary certifications to demonstrate their expertise. Examples of these credentials include the Medical Laboratory Scientist certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology, as well as Academic Certifications in Biofeedback or Neurofeedback from the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance.

The median annual pay for medical scientists is $103,410. Earnings vary based on experience and industry, with the lowest 10% earning less than $64,800 and the highest 10% earning more than $177,780. The field is growing rapidly, with a projected employment change of 12.6% from 2025 to 2035, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will help generate about 10,500 job openings each year.