Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
O*NET 19-1042.00 · SOC 19-1042
Medical Scientist is a strong career choice. Median pay is $103k a year with +12.6% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 10,500 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design laboratory experiments to test new drug compounds
- →Analyze clinical trial data to evaluate treatment effectiveness
- →Write grant proposals to secure funding for medical research
- →Develop new techniques for culturing human cells in labs
- →Present research findings at scientific conferences and in journals
Education & How to Get In
Medical Scientist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Medical Scientist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Medical Scientist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Medical Scientist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists is projected to grow 12.6% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·32% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Medical Scientist make?
The median Medical Scientist earns $103k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Medical Scientist jobs?
Our model puts Medical Scientist at 32 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 32% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Medical Scientist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 12.6% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 10,500 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Medical Scientist?
Medical Scientist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Medical Scientist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Medical Scientist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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