Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
19-1042.00
Bright Outlook Updated 2024

Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities.

Sample of reported job titles: Clinical Laboratory Scientist (Clinical Lab Scientist), Clinical Pharmacologist, Clinical Research Scientist, Medical Researcher, Physician Scientist, Research Scientist, Researcher, Scientist, Study Director, Toxicologist

Occupation-Specific Information

Tasks Save Table: XLSX CSV

ImportanceCategoryTask
92
 
Core
Follow strict safety procedures when handling toxic materials to avoid contamination.
91
 
Core
Evaluate effects of drugs, gases, pesticides, parasites, and microorganisms at various levels.
87
 
Core
Plan and direct studies to investigate human or animal disease, preventive methods, and treatments for disease.
87
 
Core
Prepare and analyze organ, tissue, and cell samples to identify toxicity, bacteria, or microorganisms or to study cell structure.
78
 
Core
Conduct research to develop methodologies, instrumentation, and procedures for medical application, analyzing data and presenting findings to the scientific audience and general public.
78
 
Core
Teach principles of medicine and medical and laboratory procedures to physicians, residents, students, and technicians.
75
 
Core
Write and publish articles in scientific journals.
75
 
Core
Write applications for research grants.
82
 
Supplemental
Standardize drug dosages, methods of immunization, and procedures for manufacture of drugs and medicinal compounds.
77
 
Supplemental
Study animal and human health and physiological processes.
73
 
Supplemental
Investigate cause, progress, life cycle, or mode of transmission of diseases or parasites.
70
 
Supplemental
Use equipment such as atomic absorption spectrometers, electron microscopes, flow cytometers, or chromatography systems.
67
 
Supplemental
Confer with health departments, industry personnel, physicians, and others to develop health safety standards and public health improvement programs.
60
 
Supplemental
Consult with and advise physicians, educators, researchers, and others regarding medical applications of physics, biology, and chemistry.
Find occupations related to multiple tasks

Worker Requirements

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation? Respondents said:

  • 36%
     
    Doctoral degree required
  • 25%
     
    Master’s degree required
  • 25%
     
    Post-doctoral training required

Worker Characteristics

Interests Save Table: XLSX CSV

Occupational InterestInterest
100
 
Investigative — Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
57
 
Realistic — Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

Workforce Characteristics

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wages (2023)
$48.50 hourly, $100,890 annual
State wages
Local wages
Employment (2022)
119,000 employees
Projected growth (2022-2032)
Much faster than average (9% or higher)
Projected job openings (2022-2032)
7,500
State trends
Top industries (2022)

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2023 wage data and 2022-2032 employment projections . “Projected growth” represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2022-2032). “Projected job openings” represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Job Openings on the Web

State job openings
Local job openings