Heredity researchers

What does a hereditary researcher do? – tasks and work environment

A hereditary researcher works to investigate how genetic factors influence traits, diseases, and development in humans, animals, or plants. Tasks often include laboratory work analyzing DNA, RNA, and proteins, but data-driven analysis of large biological datasets is also common. The research can be both fundamental and applied, aiming to increase understanding of hereditary diseases, develop new treatments, or improve plant and animal breeding. The work environment is generally research-intensive and academic, often at universities, research institutes, or within the biotech industry, where collaboration with other specialists and the use of advanced equipment are everyday aspects.

Salary development over time

The salary for a hereditary researcher has shown positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,500 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 37 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 39 200 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 4.5% over the period. This growth reflects a continued demand for specialist competence in genetics and molecular biology, as well as increased requirements for advanced education. Salary development is also influenced by competition for researchers with specialized skills in biotechnology and medical research, where increased research funding and private investments have helped push salary levels upward.

Hereditary researcher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 43,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 236 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 39 900 SEK, women 38 400 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Information about regional differences is not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a hereditary researcher, a long and specialized educational path is required, typically with a master's degree or doctoral studies in biology, genetics, or related fields. Practical experience from laboratory work and advanced analysis of genetic data is crucial, and many employers also seek international experience or specialized courses in molecular biology and bioinformatics.

• Formal degree: Master's or doctoral degree (4–8 years)
• Certifications/courses: Courses in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and statistics
• Internship/trainee: Laboratory internships and research projects during education
• Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school education, often with specialization in biology and chemistry
• Tips for choosing: Select educational environments with strong research connections and good opportunities for international collaboration

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for hereditary researchers include flexible working hours, remote work options, and generous vacation policies. Often, pension schemes, wellness allowances, and professional development through courses and conferences are offered. Researchers at universities often also have opportunities for research travel and international collaborations.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a hereditary researcher is noticeable, especially within academia where the number of research positions is limited and competition for research grants is fierce. In the industry and biotech sector, demand varies depending on economic conditions and investments in research. Challenges include rapid technological development, demands for continuous skill upgrading, and sometimes insecure employment terms in project-based roles. The ability to lead own research projects and publish scientific articles is often crucial for career development.

Tips for those who want to become hereditary researchers

To succeed as a hereditary researcher, it is good to have strong analytical skills and a genuine interest in scientific questions. A careful and methodical approach facilitates both laboratory and theoretical work, and the ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary teams is essential for success in larger research projects. Early engagement in research environments, through internships and summer jobs, helps build experience and networks. Being flexible and open to new techniques and working methods is important in a rapidly changing industry. Communication skills, especially the ability to present research results both orally and in writing, are valuable. Finally, perseverance and patience are important qualities, as the research process is often long and challenging.

Key facts about hereditary researchers

• Educational level: Master's or doctoral degree in biology/genetics
• Work environment: Laboratories, universities, and biotech companies
• Typical employment type: Permanent or project-based employment
• Demand: 143 available jobs within the group of plant and animal biologists
• Special skills: Molecular biology, bioinformatics, advanced statistics

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a hereditary researcher, opportunities exist to advance to project leader, research manager, or specialist roles within universities, research institutes, or biotech companies. For those wishing to deepen their academic career, becoming a docent or professor is a next step, while industry roles include research manager or development responsible. The Employment Service does not provide a separate forecast for hereditary researchers, but within the group of plant and animal biologists, there were 143 available jobs in Sweden at the latest measurement. Demand is driven by research funding, technological development, and the growth of the biotech sector, but competition for qualified positions is high, and it often requires specialized skills and experience in international collaborations to stand out in the job market.

Common questions about hereditary researchers

• What does a hereditary researcher earn?
  - The average salary is 39 200 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience and education level.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn an average of 39 900 SEK and women 38 400 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a hereditary researcher?
  - A minimum of a master's degree, often a doctoral degree, in biology, genetics, or related fields is required.
• Are there many jobs for hereditary researchers?
  - Within the group of plant and animal biologists, there are currently 143 available jobs, but competition for research positions is high.
• What does a hereditary researcher do daily?
  - Tasks include laboratory work, analysis of genetic data, and collaboration on research projects.
• What are the future prospects?
  - No separate forecast exists, but demand is influenced by research funding and technological development in biotechnology.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a hereditary researcher?
  - The highest salary is 43,800 SEK and the lowest is 38,100 SEK, depending on education and employment type.