Biological Scientists earn $99,760 median salary – what the job pays in 2025
The median Biological Scientist in the U.S. earns $99,760 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s about $48 an hour. The top 10% of earners bring in more than $171,180, while the bottom 10% make less than $58,760. It’s a field that pays well for those with advanced degrees, but the wide range reflects differences in industry, experience, and location.
How much Biological Scientists earn
BLS data shows the mean annual wage for Biological Scientists is $107,970, or roughly $48 per hour. Half of all workers earn between $58,760 and $171,180 — that’s the 10th to 90th percentile spread. Actual pay depends on whether you work in research, pharmaceuticals, or academia. Federal government jobs, for example, tend to be toward the middle of the range.
Entry-level positions start near the 10th percentile. With a Ph.D. and several years of experience, six-figure salaries are common.
Pay by state
The BLS does not provide state-level breakdowns for Biological Scientists in the most recent release. Check the OEWS data for your state; typically, California, Maryland, and Massachusetts pay above the national median, while southern and plains states may be lower. For precise figures, visit bls.gov.
How to become Biological Scientist
Most Biological Scientists hold a Ph.D. in biology or a related life science. A bachelor’s degree qualifies you for entry-level lab technician roles, but independent research or senior positions require a doctorate. Master’s degrees can open some applied science jobs.
Typical path: earn a bachelor’s in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry; gain research experience as an undergraduate; apply to Ph.D. programs. Postdoctoral fellowships are common before you land a permanent position. Licensing or certification is not required at the federal level, but some states regulate certain roles (e.g., clinical laboratory scientists).
- Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field (4 years)
- Ph.D. in biology or subfield (5–6 years), including dissertation research
- Postdoctoral research (2–4 years) is typical for academic or government jobs
- No universal license, but check state requirements for clinical work
Job outlook
The BLS does not project specific growth for Biological Scientists through 2034. Broader life science occupations are expected to grow faster than average, driven by research in biotechnology and medicine. Federal funding trends and private investment can affect hiring. Competition for research grants and tenure-track jobs is strong.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Biological Scientists?
$99,760 per year, or about $48 per hour. The mean wage is $107,970.
How much do Biological Scientists make at the top end?
The top 10% earn over $171,180 annually. The bottom 10% make less than $58,760.
What degree do you need to be a Biological Scientist?
A Ph.D. is standard for independent research roles. A bachelor’s or master’s is enough for some lab technician or assistant positions.
How long does it take to become a Biological Scientist?
Typically 10–12 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s, 5–6 for a Ph.D., and 2–4 years of postdoctoral work.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Biological Scientists data.