As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Biotech Research Scientist II in the United States is $126,900 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $61.
However, a Biotech Research Scientist II's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Biotech Research Scientist II'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 II'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 | $105,966 |
| Biotech Research Scientist II | 2-4 years | $126,857 |
| Biotech Research Scientist III | 4-7 years | $143,670 |
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 IIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 12.14% |
| Data Analysis | 2.81% |
| Process Development | 1.78% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Drug Discovery
|
$137,052 |
8%
|
|
Oncology
|
$135,783 |
7%
|
|
Machine Learning
|
$134,514 |
6%
|
|
Cell Biology
|
$133,245 |
5%
|
|
Biotechnology
|
$133,245 |
5%
|
|
Immunology
|
$133,245 |
5%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Biotech Research Scientist IIs 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 II with a JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent is between $128,224 and $136,278).
Biotech Research Scientist II Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.2% |
| High School | 0.2% |
| Associates | 9.9% |
| Bachelors | 11.2% |
| Masters | 9.9% |
| Doctorate | 78.7% |
Understanding how a Biotech Research Scientist II'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 January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Biotech Research Scientist II, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Bioinformatician III | $110,800 | -13% |
| Senior Biochemist | $82,901 | -35% |
| Biophysics Scientist | $76,401 | -40% |
| Biotech Research Scientist III | $143,700 | 13% |
Salaries for a Biotech Research Scientist II can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $90,818 in 2023 to around $88,418 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Biotech Research Scientist II salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $90,818 |
| 2024 | $89,690 |
| 2025 | $88,418 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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As of January 28, 2025, Biotech Research Scientists in the United States earn between $123,000 and $153,300 annually, with a median salary of $132,300. This translates to approximately $59.13 to $73.65 per hour, or $2,365 to $2,940 per week, and $10,250 to $12,750 per month, depending on experience and qualifications.
The distinction between Analyst I and Analyst II lies in their complexity and independence. Analyst II handles more complex tasks and operates with greater autonomy, while Analyst I focuses on routine assignments. In terms of salary, a Biotech Research Scientist earns between $123,000 and $153,300, reflecting the varying levels of responsibility and expertise in these roles.
The estimated total pay range for a Scientist II at Alexion is $123K–$153K per year, which includes base salary and additional compensation. The average base salary for a Scientist II at Alexion is approximately $132.3K per year.
The highest salary for a PhD in biotechnology, specifically for a Biotech Research Scientist, ranges from $123,000 to $153,300 per year. This reflects the competitive nature of the field, with the mid-salary being approximately $132,300. Other roles in biotechnology may offer varying salary ranges, but this is a key benchmark for research scientists.
Yes, a Scientist II is generally considered a higher position than a Scientist I. A Scientist II typically requires a PhD or several years of experience as a Scientist I. In terms of salary, a Scientist I might earn around $123,000, while a Scientist II can expect a mid-range salary of approximately $132,300, with potential earnings up to $153,300.
Biotech scientists can earn competitive salaries. Based on recent data, the minimum salary is $123,000, the mid-range salary is $132,300, and the maximum salary can reach $153,300 annually. This indicates that biotech scientists generally make good money compared to many other professions.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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