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Research Scientist: Salary, Requirements & How to Become One
A data-driven guide to the Research Scientist career path — what the role involves, how to get hired, and how much demand there is right now.
$140,300
median annual salary
$67.45
median hourly pay
37,200
employed nationally
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How much does a Research Scientist make?
The median Research Scientist salary is $140,300 per year (about $67.45/hour). Pay scales with experience, location, and employer — here is the full national distribution:
| Percentile | Annual salary | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry) | $82,200 | Bottom 10% — new entrants, lower-cost areas |
| Median (50th) | $140,300 | Typical Research Scientist pay |
| 90th (top) | $230,630 | Top 10% — senior, high-cost metros |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025, occupation "Computer and Information Research Scientists" (SOC 15-1221). Official U.S. government wage data.
How to become a Research Scientist
- Build the core skills — through schooling, certification, or self-study relevant to Research Scientist work.
- Gain hands-on experience via entry-level roles, internships, or apprenticeships.
- Prepare a targeted resume highlighting measurable results.
- Apply through major job boards and company career pages; filter for "Research Scientist jobs near me".
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Research Scientist careers — frequently asked questions
- How much does a Research Scientist make?
- The median Research Scientist salary is $140,300 per year (about $67.45/hour), per BLS OEWS, May 2025. The middle range runs from $82,200 (10th percentile) to $230,630 (90th percentile), varying by experience, location, and employer.
- How do I become a Research Scientist?
- Most paths combine relevant education or certification with hands-on experience. Entry-level openings and apprenticeships are a common way in.
- Is Research Scientist a good career in 2026?
- Computer and Information Research Scientists employ roughly 37,200 people nationally (BLS OEWS, May 2025), and search demand runs near 5,000 queries per month — both signal steady hiring.