Philosopher, researcher

What does a philosopher, researcher do? – Tasks and work environment

A philosopher, researcher works on analyzing, interpreting, and developing theories about fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, ethics, and society. Tasks often include independent research, participation in academic seminars, publishing scientific articles, and teaching at college and university levels. The philosopher can also contribute to interdisciplinary projects and supervise students. The work environment is usually research-intensive and often located at universities, colleges, or research institutes. Many also work internationally or collaborate with researchers from other disciplines, requiring both analytical skills and good communication abilities.

Salary development over time

The salary development for a philosopher, researcher has been stable but with a slight positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 43 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, a new level was reached with an average monthly salary of 46 000 SEK, representing an increase of about 7% over the three-year period. The salary increase can be linked to increased demand for research expertise within the humanities, larger project funding, and a general appreciation of academic positions. A certain gender gap remains, with women earning on average 97% of men's salaries. The trend indicates a continued slow but steady increase in salaries as the need for specialized competence in the humanities and ethics grows.

Philosopher, researcher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 46 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 277 SEK
• Women earn: 45 300 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 46 600 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a philosopher, researcher mainly involves a long academic education focused on philosophy or related humanities subjects. Besides a master's degree, a doctoral program and research training are usually required, where independent research and scientific publishing are central components. Many choose to further their education through international collaborations or supplementary courses to strengthen their research profile.

• Master's degree in philosophy or related field: 5 years
• Research training (doctoral degree): 4 years
• Internships or research assistant positions: Common alongside studies
• International exchanges or conferences: Meritorious
• Strong ability in critical thinking and scientific analysis: Fundamental requirement

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for a philosopher, researcher include occupational pension, flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work, and generous vacation days. Additionally, opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences, as well as support for international research collaborations, are often offered. Access to libraries, research resources, and supervision is also common within academia.

Competition and challenges

The job market for philosophers and researchers in the humanities is known to be competitive, especially regarding permanent positions and research roles. Many positions are project-based or temporary and depend on external funding, which can create uncertainty. Those aiming to advance in the field often need to be prepared for international mobility, high publication rates, and continuous networking. The long-term nature of research and sometimes limited resources can pose challenges, but the profession also offers great intellectual freedom and opportunities to influence societal debates.

Tips for aspiring philosophers, researchers

To succeed as a philosopher, researcher, it is good to combine analytical curiosity with perseverance and the ability to work independently. Building a strong academic network and participating in international conferences provide valuable contacts and insights. Good communication skills are crucial for presenting research clearly, both in writing and orally. Flexibility and openness to new research fields make it easier to find relevant projects. Additionally, it is important to manage uncertainty and seek project funding, as many positions are temporary. Organizational skills and structure facilitate work on larger research applications and publications. Finally, creativity and the ability to think outside established frameworks are valued, as innovation is often sought in humanities research.

Key facts about philosopher, researcher

• Education level: Doctorate (9 years total)
• Work environment: Academic, often research-intensive
• Work mode: Independent and team-based, often project-based
• Demand: 758 available jobs in Sweden (2024)
• Special skills: Scientific publishing, critical thinking

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a philosopher, researcher can advance to senior lecturer, research group leader, or become responsible for their own research projects. Many experienced researchers move on to interdisciplinary collaborations, policy work within authorities, or advisory roles within ethics and societal planning. The future outlook remains stable, with some increase in demand for researchers in the humanities, especially in areas such as ethics, digitalization, and sustainability. The Employment Service's statistics show good job opportunities, but competition for permanent positions remains high, making project employment common. International experience and broad subject competence enhance chances for exciting career paths.

Common questions about philosopher, researcher

• What does a philosopher, researcher earn?
  - A philosopher, researcher has an average monthly salary of 46 000.
• What education is required to become a philosopher, researcher?
  - Usually, a master's degree and a doctoral degree in philosophy or a related field are required.
• Are there regional salary differences for philosophers, researchers?
  - There is no available data on regional differences for this profession.
• What are the future prospects for a philosopher, researcher?
  - The outlook is stable with some increase in demand, but competition for permanent positions is high.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Analytical ability, independence, perseverance, and good communication skills are central qualities.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a philosopher, researcher?
  - The highest salary is 52,100 SEK/month and the lowest 41,100 SEK/month.
• What is the gender distribution in the profession?
  - Men earn on average 46 600 SEK, women 45 300 SEK, which corresponds to 97% of men's salaries.