- Salary statistics
- Pharmacologist, researcher salary
Pharmacologist, researcher salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
43 100 - 75 900 SEK / month
Women earn 96% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
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Salary progression Pharmacologist, researcher
What does a pharmacologist, researcher do? – Tasks and work environment
A pharmacologist, researcher analyzes how medicines and other chemical substances affect biological systems. Tasks include planning and conducting laboratory experiments, data collection, result interpretation, and report writing. The work is often done in collaboration with the pharmaceutical industry, universities, and authorities. The work environment is usually laboratory-based but can also include clinical studies or teaching. Precision, analytical skills, and a strong interest in medical science are essential qualities for the role.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary of a pharmacologist, researcher has changed significantly. In 2022, the average salary was 59,400 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 65 600 SEK. Despite this temporary decline, the salary rose sharply to 67 900 SEK in 2024, which is an increase of approximately 17% from the previous year. This positive trend reflects a growing demand for advanced skills in pharmaceutical research and biomedicine, as well as an increased need for specialist knowledge as new medicines are developed. Salary changes may also depend on competition for qualified researchers, especially in the private sector, and a higher proportion of researchers with specialist training.
Pharmacologist, researcher salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 67 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 76,400 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
- Hourly wage: 395 SEK
- Women: 67 200 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
- Men: 70 100 SEK/month
- Regional differences: No specific statistics available
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a pharmacologist, researcher usually involves a master's or doctoral degree in pharmacology, biomedicine, or related fields. The education combines theoretical studies with extensive laboratory experience, and international experience or specialized courses are often required. Internships or research work during studies are highly meritorious.
- Master's or doctoral degree: 5–8 years in pharmacology, biomedicine, or similar
- Research internship: Laboratory work or projects during studies
- Specialized courses: Statistics, toxicology, drug development
- International experience: Meritorious for research positions
- Prerequisites: Bachelor's degree in a natural science subject
An unexpected entry point into pharmacological research can be via biotechnology, chemistry, or even computer science, as interdisciplinary teams are often sought to solve complex questions related to drug development. Those open to cross-disciplinary collaboration often have great opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking projects.
Common benefits and compensations
Pharmacologists and researchers are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skill development. The private sector may also offer performance-based bonuses, extra vacation days, and access to international conferences. Pension contributions and health insurance are common in both public and private employment.
Competition and challenges
The competition for research positions in pharmacology is intense, especially at leading universities and within the pharmaceutical industry. Challenges include high demands for scientific output, securing research funding, and staying updated in a rapidly evolving field. Critical thinking, perseverance, and teamwork are required. The limited number of permanent positions and many project-based roles can affect job security. Many researchers also work internationally to broaden their opportunities.
Tips for aspiring pharmacologists, researchers
To succeed as a pharmacologist, researcher, it is good to combine analytical skills with curiosity and a desire to solve complex problems. Engaging early in research projects and building networks provides valuable contacts and practical experience. Precision and perseverance are crucial, especially during long experiments or when results are delayed. An open attitude to new methods and collaborations can open unexpected career paths, particularly in interdisciplinary projects. Continually developing your skills through courses and international exchanges enhances competitiveness. Good communication skills facilitate publication of research results and collaboration with colleagues. Finally, patience and a realistic view of career development are important, as success in research often takes time and long-term effort.
Key facts about a pharmacologist, researcher
- Education level: Master's or doctoral degree (5–8 years)
- Work environment: Laboratories, universities, or pharmaceutical industry
- Typical employment: Full-time, often project-based
- Demand: 143 available jobs in the profession (May 2024)
- Gender salary gap: Women earn 96% of what men do
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, many pharmacologists and researchers work as project leaders, senior researchers, or experts in drug development. Others transition into regulatory roles, clinical trials, or management positions within research and development. The Employment Service does not make a separate forecast for pharmacologists, but the profession has 143 available jobs, indicating a healthy job market. Limited data means outlooks vary, but demand for specialist skills in pharmaceutical research is expected to remain stable, especially in the private sector and international projects.
Frequently asked questions about pharmacologists, researchers
- What is the average salary of a pharmacologist, researcher?
- The average salary is 67 900 SEK per month. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn 96% of what men do in the profession. - What education is required to become a pharmacologist, researcher?
- Usually, a master's or doctoral degree in pharmacology, biomedicine, or related fields is required. - What are the future prospects for pharmacologists and researchers?
- There are 143 available jobs in the profession, but no separate forecast from the Employment Service due to limited data. - What tasks does a pharmacologist, researcher perform?
- Mainly research, laboratory experiments, data interpretation, and report writing. - What personal qualities are important?
- Analytical skills, perseverance, accuracy, and good teamwork skills are central qualities. - Are there regional salary differences?
- No specific statistics on regional differences are available.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 92% | 51200 kr | 51300 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 67300 kr | 68400 kr |
| 45-54 | 73500 kr | 75200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 79200 kr | 80800 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 66800 kr | 67900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42100 kr | 42100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45000 kr | 45000 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 47700 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 48300 kr | 48500 kr |
| 65-68 | 60400 kr | 60500 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 46600 kr | 46600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42100 kr | 42100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45000 kr | 45000 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 47700 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 48300 kr | 48500 kr |
| 65-68 | 60400 kr | 60500 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 46600 kr | 46600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 51500 kr | 51500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 68200 kr | 69400 kr |
| 45-54 | 74600 kr | 76300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 82000 kr | 83800 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 67800 kr | 68900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 51500 kr | 51500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 68200 kr | 69400 kr |
| 45-54 | 74600 kr | 76300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 82000 kr | 83800 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 67800 kr | 68900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 92% | 54500 kr | 54500 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 67700 kr | 68600 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 69500 kr | 70100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42600 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45800 kr | 45800 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 46700 kr | 46700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 53900 kr | 53900 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 47900 kr | 47900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42600 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45800 kr | 45800 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 46700 kr | 46700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 53900 kr | 53900 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 47900 kr | 47900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 55100 kr | 55100 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 69500 kr | 70500 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 71200 kr | 71900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 55100 kr | 55100 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 69500 kr | 70500 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 71200 kr | 71900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 92% | 50100 kr | 50200 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 67200 kr | 68300 kr |
| 45-54 | 71300 kr | 73200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 79400 kr | 81400 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 65900 kr | 67200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41600 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44400 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48300 kr | 48300 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 65-68 | 61400 kr | 61400 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 45600 kr | 45700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41600 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44400 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48300 kr | 48300 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 65-68 | 61400 kr | 61400 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 45600 kr | 45700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 50200 kr | 50300 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 67900 kr | 69000 kr |
| 45-54 | 72000 kr | 74000 kr | |
| 55-64 | 81900 kr | 84100 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 66700 kr | 67900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 50200 kr | 50300 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 67900 kr | 69000 kr |
| 45-54 | 72000 kr | 74000 kr | |
| 55-64 | 81900 kr | 84100 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 66700 kr | 67900 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Pharmacologist, researcher has the SSYK code 2133, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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