Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Medical scientists conduct research to understand human diseases and develop treatments that improve health outcomes. They work in laboratories, hospitals, universities, and pharmaceutical companies, designing experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings. Most positions require a graduate degree and involve clinical investigation or biomedical research and development.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against medical scientists, except epidemiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week might include designing and running laboratory experiments, analyzing results using statistical software, reviewing scientific literature, and collaborating with other researchers. Medical scientists spend time at benches or computers, documenting procedures, troubleshooting failed experiments, writing grant proposals, and attending team meetings. They may also present findings at conferences or prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy investigative work—asking questions and solving complex problems systematically. You're drawn to realistic, hands-on scientific work and have the patience for detailed, methodical research. Success in this field requires strong analytical skills, persistence through failed experiments, and the ability to work independently or as part of a research team.
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
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Supervisory Biological Scientist or Supervisory Veterinary Medical Officer · Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service · Edinburg, Texas · $89508–$116362
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $109,570 | $136,990 | $162,020 | 29,830 |
| New Jersey | $95,520 | $129,280 | $164,930 | 6,120 |
| Massachusetts | $97,520 | $128,210 | $167,940 | 17,100 |
| Connecticut | $85,070 | $116,990 | $140,420 | 2,410 |
| Arizona | $81,840 | $116,820 | $136,260 | 2,190 |
| Oregon | $83,680 | $111,030 | $168,280 | 1,030 |
| Maryland | $83,020 | $106,000 | $133,400 | 6,760 |
| Washington | $80,950 | $105,680 | $135,900 | 6,150 |
| Alaska | $96,760 | $104,930 | $151,360 | 260 |
| Rhode Island | $81,720 | $103,370 | $136,340 | 670 |
| North Carolina | $79,780 | $102,980 | $134,560 | 5,730 |
| Tennessee | $81,720 | $102,720 | $129,940 | 4,020 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) — American Society for Clinical Pathology
- Therapeutic Medical Physics Certificate — American Board of Radiology
- Medical Toxicology — American Board of Emergency Medicine
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 medical scientists, except epidemiologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1042.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.