As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Biotech Research Scientist I in the United States is $106,200 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $51.
However, a Biotech Research Scientist I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Biotech Research Scientist I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Biotech Research Scientist I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Biotech Research Scientist I | 0-2 years | $106,169 |
| Biotech Research Scientist II | 2-4 years | $127,096 |
| Biotech Research Scientist III | 4-7 years | $143,889 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Biotech Research Scientist Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 13.75% |
| Data Analysis | 3.11% |
| Oncology | 2.2% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Cell Biology
|
$113,634 |
7%
|
|
Biotechnology
|
$113,634 |
7%
|
|
Machine Learning
|
$112,572 |
6%
|
|
Bioinformatics
|
$112,572 |
6%
|
|
Cell Culture
|
$112,572 |
6%
|
|
Molecular Biology
|
$111,510 |
5%
|
Biotech Research Scientist I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $118,484. While startup companies pay approximate $100,409.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $100,409 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $106,143 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $114,463 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $118,484 |
For Biotech Research Scientist I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Energy & Utilities sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Biotech Research Scientist positions in Retail & Wholesale or Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Biotech Research Scientist I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $127,440 | $61.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $122,130 | $59.0 | 15% |
| Chemicals | $116,820 | $56.0 | 10% |
| Healthcare | $111,510 | $54.0 | 5% |
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Biotech Research Scientist Is enter the field with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Biotech Research Scientist I with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent is between $108,793 and $115,337).
Biotech Research Scientist I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.2% |
| High School | 0.2% |
| Associates | 0.6% |
| Bachelors | 20.9% |
| Masters | 16.0% |
| Doctorate | 62.4% |
Understanding how a Biotech Research Scientist I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Biotech Research Scientist I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacokineticist II | $90,000 | -15% |
| Bioinformatician II | $82,200 | -23% |
| Biochemist | $77,501 | -27% |
| Biophysics Scientist | $77,401 | -27% |
Salaries for a Biotech Research Scientist I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $79,469 in 2023 to around $74,707 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Biotech Research Scientist I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $79,469 |
| 2024 | $76,768 |
| 2025 | $74,707 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for Biotech Research Scientist I roles, with salaries approximately 20% above the market median.
The highest paying job in biotech is often the Biotech Research Scientist, with salaries ranging from $101,200 to $124,000. This role typically offers a mid-salary of $111,400, making it a lucrative option within the industry. Other high-paying positions include Biomedical Engineer, Process Engineer, and Regulatory Affairs Manager.
The salary for a Biotech Research Scientist in the USA ranges from $101,200 to $124,000, with a mid-salary of $111,400. This reflects the competitive nature of the biotechnology field, where salaries can vary based on experience and specific roles within the industry.
A Biotech Research Scientist with a PhD typically earns between $101,200 and $124,000 annually, with a mid-salary of approximately $111,400. These figures reflect the salary range based on industry data, providing a clear picture of potential earnings in this field.
A degree in biotechnology or a related field can lead to lucrative positions, such as a Biotech Research Scientist. The salary for this role typically ranges from a minimum of $101,200 to a mid-level salary of $111,400, with the potential to earn up to $124,000. This makes it one of the higher-paying options for biology graduates.
After completing an MS in Biotechnology in the USA, you can expect to earn between $101,200 and $124,000 per year as a Biotech Research Scientist. Your exact salary will depend on factors such as job role, work experience, university attended, specialization, and employer.
The highest salary for a PhD in biotechnology, specifically for a Biotech Research Scientist, ranges from $101,200 to $124,000 per year. This reflects the competitive nature of the field, with mid-level positions earning around $111,400 annually. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specific roles within the industry.
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