Geneticists
Geneticists research how traits are inherited at the molecular, organism, or population level. They work in research laboratories, universities, medical centers, and pharmaceutical companies. Some geneticists evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders. The work involves designing experiments, analyzing genetic data, and publishing findings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against geneticists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A geneticist might spend time reviewing research literature, designing experiments to test inheritance patterns, or analyzing DNA sequences using specialized software. They could conduct lab work extracting genetic material, run diagnostic tests on patient samples, or meet with colleagues to discuss findings. Administrative tasks include documenting results, preparing grant proposals, and attending departmental meetings. Work varies by specialization—molecular geneticists focus on genes themselves, while population geneticists analyze inheritance patterns across groups.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd likely succeed in this work if you enjoy solving complex problems methodically and working with detailed data and procedures. People drawn to genetics tend to be curious about how biological systems work and comfortable spending time in structured laboratory environments following precise protocols.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Physician - Geneticist · Veterans Health Administration · Houston, Texas · $250000–$315000
- Supervisory Research Plant Pathologist/Supervisory Research Geneticist · Agricultural Research Service · Aberdeen, Idaho · $125776–$192331
- Supervisory Research Geneticist/Research Plant Physiologist/Research Horticulturist · Agricultural Research Service · Mayaguez, Puerto Rico · $125776–$192331
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $98,700 | $121,680 | $144,890 | 4,970 |
| California | $86,090 | $113,530 | $154,150 | 11,880 |
| Delaware | $81,470 | $113,400 | $151,710 | — |
| Connecticut | $83,480 | $111,940 | $138,900 | 170 |
| Washington | $83,100 | $108,110 | $131,780 | 2,620 |
| Massachusetts | $84,390 | $107,100 | $162,180 | 2,930 |
| Alaska | $89,170 | $106,870 | $120,240 | 370 |
| New Jersey | $82,690 | $104,750 | $128,790 | 540 |
| Maine | $82,490 | $104,570 | $118,430 | 340 |
| New York | $83,420 | $104,120 | $133,750 | 2,520 |
| Rhode Island | $89,520 | $101,750 | $130,480 | 100 |
| Pennsylvania | $77,520 | $100,780 | $123,920 | 1,810 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certification in Pathology: Molecular Genetic Pathology (MGP) — American Board of Pathology
- Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) — Society of Wetland Scientists
- Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT) — Society of Wetland Scientists
- Molecular Diagnostics — American Board of Clinical Chemistry
- Certified Genetics Counselor (CGC) — American Board of Genetic Counseling
- Clinical Genetics and Genomics — American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against geneticists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1029.03 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.